The format of the class is mostly lecture, but the teachers encourage questions. Also, there are designated discussion classes. For instance, in this course, there are several broad themes, and for each theme, there is a discussion class.

Professors Li and Graybill dedicate a lot of time to prepare and teach the course. They have set outlines for each lecture, highlighting historical significance and historiography. Both professors have wonderful knowledge on the topics, and as a plus, they can be seen as motherly figures. Another words, they are approchable and encouraging.

Assigned readings are a bit on the heavy side. Readings are usually structured so that one reading is a review of content of the lecture, and two are historical intrepretations by renowned historians of the field.

Grading is medium. Forget the rumours that Lillian Li gives everyone D's. It's just not true.

I highly recommend this course to anyone who has a general interest in Asian studies, archaeology, or art. It uses its interdisciplinary form very well, and the two professors weave their lectures together. There is so much content, and you will learn a lot.