In today's world no country is immune from the effects of globalization. In 2010, China overtook Japan as the second largest economy in the world. Some analysis predict that in twenty years it will overtake the United States to become number one. Others wonder if China can adapt to the complex demands of globalization, and in what direction China will develop. What has made China's rapid integration into the global economy possible? How has globalization -- in economics, popular culture, technology and education -- affected China?
ChinaGlobal is a three-­credit, four-­week long summer economic and sociological studies travel course. which seeks to answer these major questions of our time. This course, team taught by an economist and a sociologist, will benefit from The Beijing Center for Chinese Studies' unique network of contacts and experts. Students will learn, experience, and observe a globalizing China by going to unique locations and interacting with this process directly. The course consists of introductory lectures and field research in Beijing, and approximately two weeks of class while traveling through China. Participants will do on-site observation and research as they make sense of the way China's economic life, class structure and popular culture are being transformed by globalization.