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Albert Park

In 1978, after nearly 30 years of socialist planning under Mao Zedong, China was one of the world’s poorest countries, saddled with an inefficient, inward-looking economy. Today, China is an upper-middle income country and the world’s largest trading nation, contributing more to global economic growth than any other nation. How could such a remarkable transformation take place?

This course will examine in detail the reforms that have contributed to China’s economic development and the current challenges facing the Chinese economy. After completing this course, you will be able to:

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In 1978, after nearly 30 years of socialist planning under Mao Zedong, China was one of the world’s poorest countries, saddled with an inefficient, inward-looking economy. Today, China is an upper-middle income country and the world’s largest trading nation, contributing more to global economic growth than any other nation. How could such a remarkable transformation take place?

This course will examine in detail the reforms that have contributed to China’s economic development and the current challenges facing the Chinese economy. After completing this course, you will be able to:

- describe the origin and consequences of China’s key economic reforms since 1978;

- explain how features of China’s fiscal and financial systems have impacted development outcomes;

- assess the extent to which China has integrated itself into the global economy and the consequences of such integration for China and other countries;

- explain the importance of different sources of economic growth during different periods since 1978; and

- critically assess the economic and policy challenges facing China going forward.

This course does not offer certificate at the moment.

Course Overview video: https://youtu.be/YBkhpvWUoIw

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Syllabus

Orientation and Module 1: China’s Gradualist Reforms
In this module, we will introduce you to China's gradualist reforms. But before you start with the lectures, please watch the Course Overview, review the Assignment and Grading page, and introduce yourself to other learners who will be studying this course with you.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for learners interested in the development of a particular nation's economy
Provides a comprehensive overview of China's economic reforms since 1978
Examines the impact of China's globalization on the global economy
Taught by experts in the field of Chinese economics
Features interviews and discussions with leading scholars in the field

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Reviews summary

China's economic reform journey

According to learners, this course provides a clear and detailed overview of China's economic transformation since 1978. Students appreciate the historical context and the structured approach to understanding key reforms in fiscal, financial, and trade systems. Many highlight the instructor's expertise and the quality of the lectures. While the subject matter is inherently complex, the course is generally perceived as a valuable foundation for anyone interested in China's economy. Some reviewers note the volume of information presented, which requires diligent study.
Offers essential historical background.
"Gave me a solid historical foundation for understanding China's growth."
"The historical progression of reforms is well-documented."
"Helped connect the historical context to current challenges."
"Starts with a clear picture of China before the reforms."
Well-organized course structure.
"The modules flowed logically from one topic to the next."
"Course structure made it easy to follow the material weekly."
"Liked how it built upon previous topics module by module."
"Assignments aligned well with the lecture content."
Instructor is knowledgeable and insightful.
"The professor is incredibly knowledgeable and brings great insights."
"His lectures were engaging and easy to follow despite the complexity."
"You can tell the instructor is a leading expert in this field."
"Appreciated the clear and concise delivery of the lectures."
Breaks down complex reforms effectively.
"The course clearly explains the gradualist reforms and their origins."
"I finally understood the sequence and impact of key economic changes."
"Provides a detailed look at policy decisions since 1978."
"Excellent job detailing the fiscal and financial system changes."
Requires significant focus and study.
"There is a lot of information packed into each module."
"It's dense material; prepare to spend time reviewing."
"Requires concentration, but the content is worth it."
"Not an easy course, but it is rewarding if you put in the effort."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in China’s Economic Transformation Part 1: Economic Reform and Growth in China with these activities:
Practice answering multiple-choice questions on China's economic policies
Improve your understanding and retention of China's economic policies through repetitive practice.
Show steps
  • Identify key concepts and theories related to China's economic policies.
  • Practice answering multiple-choice questions on these concepts.
  • Review your answers and identify areas for improvement.
Participate in a peer discussion on China's fiscal and financial system
Enhance your understanding through peer collaboration and exchange of perspectives on China's fiscal and financial system.
Browse courses on Chinese Economy
Show steps
  • Join a peer discussion group or forum.
  • Prepare talking points based on the course materials.
  • Engage actively in discussions, sharing your insights and learning from others.
Follow tutorials on Chinese economic data analysis
Enhance your understanding of China's economic data and its implications by following guided tutorials.
Browse courses on Chinese Economy
Show steps
  • Identify relevant economic data sources.
  • Follow tutorials on data cleaning and analysis techniques.
  • Interpret the results of your analysis and draw insights.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Review 'China's Economic Reform'
Reinforce your understanding of China's economic development by reviewing an authoritative book on the subject.
Show steps
  • Read the book's introduction and first chapter.
  • Summarize the key arguments and findings of each chapter.
  • Identify the main challenges and opportunities facing China's economy.
Review 'China's Economic Miracle'
Gain a comprehensive understanding of China's economic transformation by reviewing an acclaimed book on the subject.
Show steps
  • Read the book's introduction and first chapter.
  • Summarize the key arguments and findings of each chapter.
  • Compare and contrast different perspectives on China's economic development.
Write a blog post on China's economic outlook
Solidify your knowledge and develop your communication skills by writing a blog post on China's economic outlook.
Browse courses on Chinese Economy
Show steps
  • Research and gather data on China's economy.
  • Identify key trends and factors influencing China's economic growth.
  • Write a well-structured blog post outlining your analysis and insights.
Contribute to an open-source project related to China's economy
Apply your knowledge and skills by contributing to an open-source project related to China's economy.
Show steps
  • Identify open-source projects related to China's economy.
  • Choose a project that aligns with your interests and skills.
  • Make meaningful contributions to the project, such as code improvements, documentation, or issue resolution.
Participate in a hackathon or competition focused on China's economic challenges
Challenge yourself and apply your knowledge to real-world problems by participating in a hackathon or competition focused on China's economic challenges.
Browse courses on Chinese Economy
Show steps
  • Identify hackathons or competitions related to China's economy.
  • Form a team or join an existing one.
  • Develop innovative solutions to address the challenges presented in the competition.

Career center

Learners who complete China’s Economic Transformation Part 1: Economic Reform and Growth in China will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Economist
Economists study how resources are allocated in an economy. They analyze data, develop models, and make recommendations on economic policy. This course may help prepare you for a career as an Economist by providing a deep understanding of China's economic reforms and growth. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Economists who work on China-related issues.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts provide advice and recommendations on investments and financial planning. They analyze financial data, develop models, and make recommendations to clients. This course may help prepare you for a career as a Financial Analyst by providing a deep understanding of China's financial system and economic growth. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Financial Analysts who work on China-related investments.
International Business Consultant
International Business Consultants advise businesses on how to operate in foreign markets. They analyze market opportunities, develop strategies, and implement plans. This course may help prepare you for a career as an International Business Consultant by providing a deep understanding of China's economy and business environment. The course covers topics such as globalization, trade and foreign direct investment, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for International Business Consultants who work on China-related projects.
Investment Banker
Investment Bankers advise businesses on mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and other financial transactions. They analyze financial data, develop models, and make recommendations to clients. This course may help prepare you for a career as an Investment Banker by providing a deep understanding of China's financial system and economic growth. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Investment Bankers who work on China-related transactions.
Management Consultant
Management Consultants advise businesses on how to improve their operations and performance. They analyze data, develop recommendations, and implement plans. This course may help prepare you for a career as a Management Consultant by providing a deep understanding of China's economy and business environment. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Management Consultants who work on China-related projects.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues. They develop recommendations and advise policymakers. This course may help prepare you for a career as a Policy Analyst by providing a deep understanding of China's economic reforms and growth. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Policy Analysts who work on China-related issues.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, organize, and execute projects. They work with teams of people to achieve project goals. This course may help prepare you for a career as a Project Manager by providing a deep understanding of China's economy and business environment. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Project Managers who work on China-related projects.
Researcher
Researchers conduct research on a variety of topics. They analyze data, develop theories, and publish their findings. This course may help prepare you for a career as a Researcher by providing a deep understanding of China's economic reforms and growth. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Researchers who work on China-related topics.
Sales Manager
Sales Managers lead and motivate sales teams to achieve sales targets. They develop sales strategies, manage budgets, and track performance. This course may help prepare you for a career as a Sales Manager by providing a deep understanding of China's economy and business environment. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Sales Managers who work on China-related sales teams.
Strategy Consultant
Strategy Consultants advise businesses on how to achieve their strategic goals. They analyze data, develop recommendations, and implement plans. This course may help prepare you for a career as a Strategy Consultant by providing a deep understanding of China's economy and business environment. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Strategy Consultants who work on China-related projects.
Teacher
Teachers educate students in a variety of subjects. They develop lesson plans, teach classes, and assess student learning. This course may help prepare you for a career as a Teacher by providing a deep understanding of China's economic reforms and growth. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Teachers who teach about China or who work with Chinese students.
Writer
Writers create written content for a variety of purposes. They may write articles, books, speeches, or other types of text. This course may help prepare you for a career as a Writer by providing a deep understanding of China's economic reforms and growth. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Writers who write about China or who work with Chinese audiences.
Editor
Editors review, edit, and proofread written content. They may work for newspapers, magazines, publishing houses, or other organizations. This course may help prepare you for a career as an Editor by providing a deep understanding of China's economic reforms and growth. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Editors who work on content about China or who work with Chinese authors.
Journalist
Journalists gather, analyze, and report on news and current events. They may work for newspapers, magazines, television stations, or other media outlets. This course may help prepare you for a career as a Journalist by providing a deep understanding of China's economic reforms and growth. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Journalists who cover China or who report on Chinese issues.
Librarian
Librarians help people find and access information. They may work in libraries, schools, or other organizations. This course may help prepare you for a career as a Librarian by providing a deep understanding of China's economic reforms and growth. The course covers topics such as fiscal and financial system reform, globalization, and economic growth and structural change. This knowledge may be valuable for Librarians who work with Chinese materials or who serve Chinese patrons.

Reading list

We've selected 15 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in China’s Economic Transformation Part 1: Economic Reform and Growth in China.
Provides a comprehensive overview of China's economic transformation since 1978. It covers the key reforms that have contributed to China's economic development, as well as the challenges facing the Chinese economy going forward.
Provides a comprehensive analysis of China's economic transition. It examines the origins of the transition, the mechanisms by which it has occurred, and the consequences of the transition.
Provides a comprehensive analysis of China's grand strategy. It examines the history, goals, and implementation of China's grand strategy, as well as its impact on the global order.
Provides a historical overview of China's economic reforms. It traces the origins of the reforms, and examines how they have evolved over time.
Provides a detailed analysis of China's financial markets. It covers the history, structure, and regulation of China's financial markets, as well as the challenges facing the markets going forward.
Examines the political and economic factors that have contributed to China's rise. It provides insights into the challenges facing China going forward, and how China's rise will impact the global economy.
Provides an in-depth analysis of China's industrial policy. It examines the history, goals, and implementation of China's industrial policy, as well as its impact on the Chinese economy.
Provides an in-depth analysis of China's economic miracle. It examines the key factors that have contributed to China's economic growth, and the challenges facing China going forward.
Provides a comprehensive overview of China's innovation economy. It covers the history, structure, and challenges of China's innovation economy, as well as the opportunities for foreign companies.
Provides a provocative analysis of China's future. It argues that China rising power that has the potential to become a global superpower.
Provides a concise overview of China's economy. It covers the key economic indicators, the major sectors of the economy, and the challenges facing China going forward.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Chinese economy. It covers the key economic indicators, the major sectors of the economy, and the challenges facing China going forward.
Provides a detailed overview of China's Belt and Road Initiative. It covers the history, goals, and implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as its impact on the global economy.
Provides a detailed analysis of China's political system. It examines the history, structure, and challenges of China's political system, as well as its impact on the Chinese economy and society.

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