This advanced Chinese language seminar introduces MA students to key developments in contemporary Chinese politics, international relations, the economy, and society. It focuses on China’s role as a global technological power, with particular attention to artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and their implications for China, Germany, and the European Union.
At the heart of the seminar is the analysis of original Chinese language sources: official speeches, statements by business leaders, and social media posts. By examining these sources, students explore how political actors, businesses, and the public frame AI developments, articulate competing priorities, and debate technological change. This approach enables students to compare official narratives, corporate perspectives, and public discourse while critically assessing the context, purpose, and limitations of each source.
The seminar is organised into thematic units: international relations, politics, economy, and society. AI serves as a connecting theme across the units, each of which combines independent, self-directed learning with in-person discussion. At the end of each unit, students and the lecturer meet in person to evaluate the sources, discuss students’ evidence-based arguments, and consider the implications of their findings for China, Germany, and the EU.
Through this engagement with Chinese-language sources, students strengthen their language proficiency, subject knowledge, and critical thinking skills while developing a nuanced understanding of contemporary China. They also develop skills in source analysis, independent research, and academic argumentation that support their final research project and master’s thesis.
Hybrid format: The seminar combines online, self-directed learning with in-person group discussions.
Teaching methods:
1) Weekly Chinese-language readings and online activities use multimedia resources and digital tools to support independent, self-directed learning at a flexible pace.
2) Each thematic unit concludes with an in-person discussion of Chinese official speeches, statements by business leaders, and social media posts concerning AI technologies. Students are expected to prepare by critically analysing these sources and explaining their own thinking. During discussions, they present evidence-based arguments and explore the implications of their findings for China, Germany, and the EU with their peers.
Language requirement: Chinese proficiency at HSK level 3–4 or equivalent.
The seminar is taught in English and Chinese. In-person discussions take place in English, while reading materials and self-study exercises are in Chinese. Online learning activities are delivered through the LSI platform. The platform, course materials, and seminar structure will be introduced in the first session.
Eligibility: This seminar is not open to native speakers of Chinese.
In-person meetings: Five sessions on 21 October, 11 November, 16 December, 20 January, and 27 January.
- Kursleiter/in: Mireia Aina Paulo Noguera