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David Zweig
One of the most significant changes in the world in the past 30 years is the opening of China to the outside world and its engagement with that world. In the initial years of the opening, external forces influenced China’s economy, regional balances, bureaucracy, as well as the political authority of local leaders in the coastal areas. More recently, the world is feeling the effects of a rising China which seeks resources and talent from all around the globe and uses its financial wealth to strengthen its position in the world. This course tracks the opening of China up from 1978 until it joins the WTO, focusing on how the world affected China’s internal development. We then look at various aspects of China’s “going out strategy” — its search for energy, talent, as well as its relations with the United States and the states within the Asia-Pacific region. The instructor has been deeply engaged in research on all these topics, having lived in China during various stages of China’s opening to the outside world.
Read more
One of the most significant changes in the world in the past 30 years is the opening of China to the outside world and its engagement with that world. In the initial years of the opening, external forces influenced China’s economy, regional balances, bureaucracy, as well as the political authority of local leaders in the coastal areas. More recently, the world is feeling the effects of a rising China which seeks resources and talent from all around the globe and uses its financial wealth to strengthen its position in the world. This course tracks the opening of China up from 1978 until it joins the WTO, focusing on how the world affected China’s internal development. We then look at various aspects of China’s “going out strategy” — its search for energy, talent, as well as its relations with the United States and the states within the Asia-Pacific region. The instructor has been deeply engaged in research on all these topics, having lived in China during various stages of China’s opening to the outside world.
Read more
One of the most significant changes in the world in the past 30 years is the opening of China to the outside world and its engagement with that world. In the initial years of the opening, external forces influenced China’s economy, regional balances, bureaucracy, as well as the political authority of local leaders in the coastal areas. More recently, the world is feeling the effects of a rising China which seeks resources and talent from all around the globe and uses its financial wealth to strengthen its position in the world. This course tracks the opening of China up from 1978 until it joins the WTO, focusing on how the world affected China’s internal development. We then look at various aspects of China’s “going out strategy” — its search for energy, talent, as well as its relations with the United States and the states within the Asia-Pacific region. The instructor has been deeply engaged in research on all these topics, having lived in China during various stages of China’s opening to the outside world.
Course Overview video: https://youtu.be/7FpNL67EbE4
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OpenCourser.com/course/vqkg8s/chinese
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Syllabus
Orientation and Module 1: China’s Opening to the Outside World, 1978-2000
Before you start with the content for Module 1, 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.
Read more
Syllabus
Orientation and Module 1: China’s Opening to the Outside World, 1978-2000
Before you start with the content for Module 1, 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.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Explores how the world has influenced China's internal economy, regional balances, bureaucracy, and the political authority of local leaders, in the coastal areas
Examines China's “going out strategy” — its search for energy, talent, as well as its relations with the United States and the states within the Asia-Pacific region.
Analyzes how the world has felt the effects of a rising China which seeks resources and talent from all around the globe and uses its financial wealth to strengthen its position in the world
Investigates how China joined the WTO, its opening up from 1978, and its search for talent and technology between 1978-2016
Instructed by David Zweig who has lived in China during various stages of China’s opening to the outside world
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Reviews summary
China's role in the world
According to learners, this course provides a comprehensive and informative overview of China's engagement with the world since 1978. Students particularly praise the depth of the lectures and materials, finding them insightful and well-researched. The instructor is highly knowledgeable, offering valuable perspectives based on his extensive research and experience. While the course covers a lot of ground and requires significant effort, particularly with the required readings, many find the material highly relevant and the overall learning experience rewarding.
Expert panel adds valuable diverse perspectives.
"The module featuring the panel discussion with other experts was a real highlight."
"Loved the diversity of viewpoints presented in the panel discussion."
"The panel discussion module was very engaging and added significant value."
"Hearing from multiple academics provided a well-rounded view on China's foreign policy."
Lectures are detailed and provide valuable insights.
"The video lectures are packed with information and presented clearly."
"I appreciated the detailed explanations and historical context provided in the lectures."
"Lectures were well-structured and easy to follow, despite the complexity of the topic."
"Provides deep insights into Chinese political and economic strategies."
Content is current and highly relevant to today's world.
"The topics covered are highly relevant to understanding current global dynamics and China's role in them."
"Extremely timely course given the current geopolitical landscape and China's increasing influence."
"Helped me better understand recent news and developments concerning China."
"The course material feels very current and applicable to real-world events."
Instructor's knowledge and experience are highly valued.
"The instructor is clearly an expert in the field, and his insights are the highlight of the course."
"His passion for the subject matter really comes through in the lectures, making complex topics accessible."
"Very knowledgeable lecturer with valuable firsthand experience and research."
"The professor's expertise shines through, providing a strong academic foundation for the material."
Offers a deep dive into China's global role.
"The course covers a lot of ground and gives a solid understanding of China's trajectory from opening up to its current global position."
"I found the content very informative and comprehensive, tracing the evolution of China's international relations and strategies."
"Excellent course delving into the complexities of China's engagement with the world economy and political landscape."
"Provides a comprehensive overview of key events and policies shaping China's relationship with the outside world."
Requires significant time commitment and effort.
"This course is quite demanding, especially with the volume of required readings."
"Be prepared to dedicate substantial time each week to keep up with lectures and assignments."
"The workload is heavy but manageable if you stay on top of the material."
"Requires a significant time investment to fully grasp the concepts and complete the assignments."
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 Chinese Politics Part 2 – China and the World with these
activities:
Attend an Event Related to China
Show steps
Attending an event related to China provides opportunities for networking, learning from experts, and gaining insights into the latest developments.
Show steps
-
Search for upcoming events related to China
-
Register for an event that aligns with your interests
-
Attend the event and actively participate in discussions
Review the history of China's foreign policy
Show steps
This activity will help you strengthen your understanding of the historical context of China's foreign policy, which will be essential for understanding the course material.
Show steps
-
Read the assigned textbook chapters on China's foreign policy history.
-
Take notes on the key events and developments in China's foreign policy.
-
Create a timeline of China's foreign policy history.
-
Write a summary of the key trends and patterns in China's foreign policy history.
Review Economic and Political Background of China
Show steps
Reviewing the economic and political background of China will provide you with a foundational understanding necessary to comprehend the complexities of China’s opening to the outside world.
Show steps
-
Read the following articles on China’s economic development
-
Read the following articles on China’s political history
Seven other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all ten activities
Read “China’s Rise and the World Order”
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive analysis of China’s rise and its implications for the global order, helping you deepen your understanding of the topic
Show steps
-
Read the Introduction and Chapter 1
-
Read Chapters 2-4
-
Read the Conclusion
Practice answering questions on China’s opening to the outside world
Show steps
Regular practice with answering questions on China’s opening to the outside world will help you reinforce your knowledge and identify areas where you need further clarification.
Show steps
-
Create a list of questions related to China’s opening to the outside world
-
Attempt to answer the questions on your own
-
Compare your answers with the provided answer key
Follow tutorials on China’s economic development
Show steps
Watching tutorials provides a more in-depth understanding into China’s economic development and helps reinforce the concepts covered in the course modules.
Show steps
-
Find tutorials on YouTube or other online platforms
-
Watch the tutorials and take notes
-
Apply the concepts learned in the tutorials to your coursework
Compile Resources on China’s Relations with the United States
Show steps
Compiling resources will help you organize and expand your knowledge on China’s relations with the United States, making it easier to synthesize and retain information
Show steps
-
Conduct a search for articles, reports, and data on China’s relations with the United States
-
Review and select relevant resources
-
Organize the resources into a coherent collection
Develop a Presentation on China’s Global Search for Energy
Show steps
Creating a presentation will help you synthesize your knowledge on China’s global search for energy and develop your presentation skills.
Show steps
-
Research China’s global search for energy
-
Develop an outline for your presentation
-
Create slides for your presentation
-
Present your findings to your peers or a small group
Discuss China’s Foreign Policy
Show steps
Engaging in discussions with peers will allow you to exchange insights, challenge your perspectives, and deepen your understanding of China’s foreign policy.
Show steps
-
Find a study partner or group
-
Choose a specific topic in China’s foreign policy to discuss
-
Prepare talking points and research the topic
-
Meet with your study partner or group to discuss the topic
Write a Summary of the Course
Show steps
Summarizing the main points of the course will help you solidify your knowledge and identify areas for further exploration.
Show steps
-
Watch the Course Overview video
-
Briefly describe each module and its key takeaways
-
Write a one-page summary of the course
Attend an Event Related to China
Show steps
Attending an event related to China provides opportunities for networking, learning from experts, and gaining insights into the latest developments.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for upcoming events related to China
- Register for an event that aligns with your interests
- Attend the event and actively participate in discussions
Review the history of China's foreign policy
Show steps
This activity will help you strengthen your understanding of the historical context of China's foreign policy, which will be essential for understanding the course material.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the assigned textbook chapters on China's foreign policy history.
- Take notes on the key events and developments in China's foreign policy.
- Create a timeline of China's foreign policy history.
- Write a summary of the key trends and patterns in China's foreign policy history.
Review Economic and Political Background of China
Show steps
Reviewing the economic and political background of China will provide you with a foundational understanding necessary to comprehend the complexities of China’s opening to the outside world.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the following articles on China’s economic development
- Read the following articles on China’s political history
Seven other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all ten activities
Read “China’s Rise and the World Order”
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive analysis of China’s rise and its implications for the global order, helping you deepen your understanding of the topic
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the Introduction and Chapter 1
- Read Chapters 2-4
- Read the Conclusion
Practice answering questions on China’s opening to the outside world
Show steps
Regular practice with answering questions on China’s opening to the outside world will help you reinforce your knowledge and identify areas where you need further clarification.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a list of questions related to China’s opening to the outside world
- Attempt to answer the questions on your own
- Compare your answers with the provided answer key
Follow tutorials on China’s economic development
Show steps
Watching tutorials provides a more in-depth understanding into China’s economic development and helps reinforce the concepts covered in the course modules.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find tutorials on YouTube or other online platforms
- Watch the tutorials and take notes
- Apply the concepts learned in the tutorials to your coursework
Compile Resources on China’s Relations with the United States
Show steps
Compiling resources will help you organize and expand your knowledge on China’s relations with the United States, making it easier to synthesize and retain information
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Conduct a search for articles, reports, and data on China’s relations with the United States
- Review and select relevant resources
- Organize the resources into a coherent collection
Develop a Presentation on China’s Global Search for Energy
Show steps
Creating a presentation will help you synthesize your knowledge on China’s global search for energy and develop your presentation skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research China’s global search for energy
- Develop an outline for your presentation
- Create slides for your presentation
- Present your findings to your peers or a small group
Discuss China’s Foreign Policy
Show steps
Engaging in discussions with peers will allow you to exchange insights, challenge your perspectives, and deepen your understanding of China’s foreign policy.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study partner or group
- Choose a specific topic in China’s foreign policy to discuss
- Prepare talking points and research the topic
- Meet with your study partner or group to discuss the topic
Write a Summary of the Course
Show steps
Summarizing the main points of the course will help you solidify your knowledge and identify areas for further exploration.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Watch the Course Overview video
- Briefly describe each module and its key takeaways
- Write a one-page summary of the course
Career center
Learners who complete Chinese Politics Part 2 – China and the World will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Diplomat
Diplomat
Diplomats represent their countries in foreign nations. They negotiate with foreign governments and officials, promote their countries' interests, and protect their citizens abroad. This course may be helpful for aspiring diplomats because it provides a deep understanding of China's foreign policy and its relations with other countries.
Foreign Policy Analyst
Foreign Policy Analyst
Foreign policy analysts research, analyze, and make recommendations on foreign policy issues. They work for governments, think tanks, and other organizations. This course may be helpful for aspiring foreign policy analysts because it provides a deep understanding of China's foreign policy and its relations with other countries.
International Business Consultant
International Business Consultant
International business consultants advise companies on how to operate in foreign markets. They help companies develop strategies for entering new markets, managing risk, and complying with local laws and regulations. This course may be helpful for aspiring international business consultants because it provides a deep understanding of China's economy, politics, and culture.
International Trade Specialist
International Trade Specialist
International trade specialists help companies import and export goods and services. They advise companies on tariffs, quotas, and other trade regulations. This course may be helpful for aspiring international trade specialists because it provides a deep understanding of China's trade policy and its relations with other countries.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists report on current events and issues. They work for newspapers, magazines, television, and radio stations. This course may be helpful for aspiring journalists who want to specialize in covering China or international affairs.
Lawyer
Lawyer
Lawyers advise clients on legal matters and represent them in court. This course may be helpful for aspiring lawyers who want to specialize in international law or who want to work with clients who do business in China.
Lobbyist
Lobbyist
Lobbyists represent the interests of their clients before government officials. They work for corporations, trade associations, and other organizations. This course may be helpful for aspiring lobbyists who want to specialize in international affairs or who want to work with clients who do business in China.
Nonprofit Program Manager
Nonprofit Program Manager
Nonprofit program managers plan, implement, and evaluate programs that serve the public good. This course may be helpful for aspiring nonprofit program managers who want to work on international development or humanitarian aid programs.
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
Political scientists study politics and government. They work for universities, think tanks, and other organizations. This course may be helpful for aspiring political scientists who want to specialize in Chinese politics or international relations.
Professor
Professor
Professors teach and conduct research at universities. This course may be helpful for aspiring professors who want to specialize in Chinese politics or international relations.
Public Policy Analyst
Public Policy Analyst
Public policy analysts research, analyze, and make recommendations on public policy issues. They work for governments, think tanks, and other organizations. This course may be helpful for aspiring public policy analysts who want to specialize in international affairs or who want to work on issues related to China.
Researcher
Researcher
Researchers conduct research on a variety of topics, including politics, economics, and social issues. This course may be helpful for aspiring researchers who want to specialize in Chinese politics or international relations.
Risk Analyst
Risk Analyst
Risk analysts identify and assess risks to businesses and organizations. They work for a variety of organizations, including banks, insurance companies, and consulting firms. This course may be helpful for aspiring risk analysts who want to specialize in international risk or who want to work with clients who do business in China.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers teach students at all levels, from elementary school to university. This course may be helpful for aspiring teachers who want to teach about China or international relations.
Writer
Writer
Writers write books, articles, and other content. This course may be helpful for aspiring writers who want to specialize in writing about China or international affairs.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/vqkg8s/chinese
Reading list
We've selected 11 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
Chinese Politics Part 2 – China and the World.
Examines China's global ambitions. The book provides insights into China's goals and objectives and the implications for the world.
Presents Xi Jinping's vision for China's future. The book provides insights into China's goals and aspirations and the implications for the world.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of China's foreign relations in the 21st century. The book covers a wide range of topics, including China's relations with the United States, Europe, and Asia. It useful reference for anyone interested in understanding China's role in the world.
Provides a comprehensive overview of China's opening to the outside world from 1978 to 2000, covering political, economic, and social changes. The book is also useful for providing historical context on the topics covered in the course.
Examines China's engagement in Africa. The book provides insights into China's motivations for investing in Africa and the implications for the continent.
Captures the story of China's rise to power from the 1970s, offering insights into its domestic and foreign policies.
Save
Examines China's global search for resources, including energy, minerals, and other commodities. It provides insights into China's motivations for acquiring resources abroad and the implications for global markets.
Examines the future of China's economy. The book provides insights into the challenges and opportunities facing China's economy and the implications for the global economy. It valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the future of China's economy.
Examines China's One Belt One Road Initiative. The book provides insights into the initiative's goals and objectives and the implications for the global economy.
Examines China's grand strategy. The book provides insights into China's long-term goals and objectives and the implications for the United States and the world.
Examines China's changing relations with the world from 2000 to 2016, covering political, economic, and social changes. The book is useful for providing up-to-date information on the topics covered in the course.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/vqkg8s/chinese
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The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
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David Zweig
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