Even though I was not in the CDE module last year, the syllabus for this year's CDE module looks exciting to me.
In the first lesson of CDE, I had understood the importance of Cultural Intelligence (CI) which refers to the ability to understand the beliefs, values and attitudes and behaviours of a group of people and to apply the knowledge to achieve specific goals. The article by David Livermore defines CQ as "the test of your potential for cross cultural success". Under the effects of globalisation, many multi-national companies are expanding their business and projects abroad to reach out to a wider consumer market. This also means that there will be many more cooperations between corporations from different countries and there might be occasions whereby misunderstandings arises due to differences in culture. For example, handshakes which are deemed as a gesture of polite and respect in the corporate world in many countries worldwide might not be appropriate in countries such as Japan and certain Middle East countries. The common gesture in Japan would be to take a slight bow instead of handshakes. There are many other examples such as the "Ok hand sign" having vulgar connotations in South American countries such as Brazil. Companies worldwide are in search of individuals with high levels of CI so that the company can adapt to the tastes of culturally diverse markets while retaining their brand's strong identities.
The syllabus covers many of the contemporary issues in both Eastern and Western societies. This first issue that we will be learning about is the "Me Generation" in China and how they can impact China economically, politically and socially. After reading the various articles from Times, New York Times and the Beijing Review, the "Me Generation" in China is mostly apathetic of political developments within their country- what they are concerned is having a stable income and flourishing economy so they can continue with their pursuit of material wealth. However, the "Me Generation" does not always have negative connotations. This generation born in the 80s cherish their individual rights more than the previous generations do hence they are willing to protect their interests through the law.
I am particular interested about the theme on political activeness in China in the 20th century and political apathy in Modern China. Youths and students were deeply involved in the politic developments in China, one such event would be the Tiananmen Square incident in 1989, whereby tens of thousands of youths demanded for democracy. The renowned statue "Goddess of Democracy" which was constructed with foam and paper-mache was ultimately destroyed by the central government following the forceful crackdown on the protesters. Perhaps, the reason why many youths in Modern China are apathetic about political developments in the country is because their voices would most probably be ignored by the government and any movements which they initiate will ultimately face with failures. Hence, they would rather enjoy whatever the central government has to provide and so as to ensure that the country can run smoothly without disruption. I believe that had this trend continue, it would be hard for China to achieve democracy.
Other themes that we will be learning about includes education in both China and America and the evolution of women in the East and West.
I believe that the mode of assessment which includes the form of presentations and Research Paper will allow me to get access to a wide range of resources and information. I prefer this method of assessment as it does not require us to regurgitate knowledge we had learnt but encourages us to further our knowledge and develop ideas. The reflective journals also provides a platform for me to consolidate and reflect what I had learnt in CDE classes, hence making learning more effective.
