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XuetangX

A Breeze from the East: An Introduction to Modern China

via XuetangX

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Overview

An Introduction to the Course

The course “A Breeze from the East: An Introduction to Modern China” focuses on the rapid development of contemporary China. The course comprises of twelve chapters, aiming to present both the inheritance of classical culture of ancient China and up-to-date innovative development of modern-day China. The content of the course covers a wide range of topics, ranging from China’s geographical conditions, economic development, customs in Chinese people’s daily life, Chinese cuisine, science and technology, music styles, visual art and movie, education systems, etc..


Highlights of the Course

A Unique Perspective From Overseas Students

Different from previous courses, this course takes a unique perspective from overseas students. They experienced a series of psychological change after arriving in China, from cultural shock, confusions to harmonious coexistence, which manifest different aspects of today’s China. 

A Combination of Traditional and Modern China Culture

This course does not solely talk about traditional Chinese culture, but also introduces rapid development and new outlook of modern China. 

A Teaching Group with Interdisciplinary Background

The teaching group of this course come from different disciplines, majoring in both English teaching and teaching Chinese as a foreign language. Our teaching takes into consideration of teaching foreigners Chinese language and culture, incorporating the concept of spreading Chinese culture globally in English. The ultimate purpose is to present a true, panoramic and dynamic China to the international world. 



Syllabus

  • 1. A Charming China: an Introduction to Modern-day China
    • 1.1 Introduction
    • 1.2 The magnificent landscape in China
    • 1.3 The population diversity in China
    • 1.4 Representative cities in China
    • 1.5 Integration: China and the world in the 21st century
  • 2. A Cultural Inheritance: Mysteries of the Chinese Language
    • 2.1 Introduction
    • 2.2 A profound history of the Chinese language
    • 2.3 The everlasting charm of the upright and square Chinese characters
    • 2.4 A full blossom of Mandarin Chinese and other dialects
    • 2.5 Foreign language education in China
  • 3. Rings of Our Life Tree: Important Life Ceremonies of Chinese People
    • 3.1 Introduction
    • 3.2 Sprout of life: birth ceremony
    • 3.3 Rosy youth: coming-of-age ceremony and wedding ceremony
    • 3.4 Harvest season：birthday ceremony for the elderly
    • 3.5 Twilight: funeral ceremony
  • 4. The Rule of Nature: The Time System of Chinese People
    • 4.1 Introduction
    • 4.2 From Heaven to Earth: Chinese Calendar
    • 4.3 Auspicious Animals: The Chinese Zodiac
    • 4.4 Change of Seasons: the 24 Solar Terms
    • 4.5 Lucky Dates: Chinese Festivals
  • 5. Smart China: Smart Lifestyle brought by Innovations
    • 5.1 Introduction
    • 5.2 Smart Communication: ICT and a new lifestyle
    • 5.3 Smart shopping: the trend of online shopping
    • 5.4 Smart Transportation: a convenient travelling experience
    • 5.5 Smart city: a wonderful home in the information age
  • 6. An Upcoming Future: Chinese Education Preparing for the World
    • 6.1 Introduction
    • 6.2 Preaching and teaching: ancient Chinese educational systems
    • 6.3 Inspiring and stimulating: current Chinese educational system
    • 6.4 An Introduction to prestigious Chinese universities (I)
    • 6.5 An Introduction to prestigious Chinese universities (II)
  • 7. Listen to China: A Musical Feast
    • 7.1 Introduction
    • 7.2 Instruments and Sounds: Chinese Classical Music and its Instruments
    • 7.3 Sheng Dan Jing Chou: Dazzling Chinese Operas
    • 7.4 Flowers in Full Bloom: Chinese Folk Songs
    • 7.5 Refined and Popular Tastes: Contemporary Pop Music and Songs
  • 8. Savor China: Chinese Cuisine
    • 8.1 Introduction
    • 8.2 The First Necessity:The Secret of Three Meals of the Day
    • 8.3 Diverse Flavors: Specialties from all over the Country
    • 8.4 Oriental Leaves: Chinese Tea
    • 8.5 Sing while Drinking:Chinese Wine
  • 9. Splendid Display of Colors: Treasures of Chinese Arts
    • 9.1 Introduction
    • 9.2 National Colors: Chinese Aesthetics of Traditional Colors
    • 9.3 Black and White: Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting
    • 9.4 Dan and Qing: Paper Cutting and Porcelain
    • 9.5 Dazzling Colors: Embroidery and Facial Makeups in Chinese Opera
  • 10. Innovative China: The Power of Modern Science and Technology
    • 10.1 Introduction
    • 10.2 Information Revolution: Digital Transformation in the age of 5G communication
    • 10.3 Megaprojects：Amazing China power
    • 10.4 Innovative Manufacturing：From “Made in China” to “Wisdom in China”
    • 10.5 Legends of Sky and Sea: Endless Exploration of Blue Water and Shining Stars
  • Final exam

    Taught by

    Hangzhou Normal University

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