Working in China Today
New for Spring 2015- Special Topics in Asian Studies
Wednesdays, 5:30-8
CRN 21604
Asian Studies 2030
Course Description
Since the Chinese government opened the door to foreign investment in 1978, the Chinese economy has expanded at a dramatic pace. As the most populous country in the world, China is not only a hub of affordable labor, but also home of thousands of middle-class consumers with strong buying power. China is now the second largest economy in the world and is developing the size of its economy rapidly and aggressively. Aimed at those seeking general knowledge and at those planning to work or go into business in China, this course will examine key aspects of the Chinese economy, work organization, and the culture of work in China. This course includes examination of major economic sectors, regulation, trade, and overseas investment as well as the prior Chinese economic development and the roots of current economic growth, the structure of various types of work organizations, management and decision-making processes, the culture of working and doing business in China, and the changing Chinese economy.
Instructor: Chi-Wei Huang
Course Objectives
Students are expected to develop their critical thinking and problem solving abilities within the framework of Chinese economy and business activity through presentations, classroom role-playing (simulation), writing assignments, discussions, and viewing multimedia resources. Some examples of specific classroom themes include:
-Patterns of growth and development of the Chinese economy
-Sectors, and factors shaping them, including government regulation
-Chinese firm organization, work culture, and management
-The culture of work and business, including patterns of communication and possible cultural misunderstandings
-Foreign investment in China and China’s overseas investments