Four Dimensions of GE Core Courses

1. Thought, Civilization and History

Thought and history constitute the locus of people in time and space. Philosophical training requires not only understanding abstract concepts and theories but also reflecting on and critiquing them. Immersed in this training, students will be able to think through the fundamental questions about life and the universe. The study of civilization and history will train students to understand human actions that taken place in the contemporary world by examining past events and history. Through exploring the past, including people, events, and civilization, students are expected to develop empathetic analytical skills and insights to differentiate between the truth and falsity. This dimension “Thought, Civilization and History”  enables students to understand  the meanings of human actions through intellectual exploration, and to appreciate the value of philosophy in historical analysis.

2. Life, Nature, and Technology

“Life, Nature, and Technology” dimension aims to cultivate students with scientific and technological literacy, which will enable students to understand the contexts and the processes of technological developments as well as the prospects of innovations in the future. This will further lead students to evaluate the impact of technology on social life and the environment. Emphasizing both knowledge and practice, the courses aim to train students to build a multi-level knowledge network and apply knowledge in their daily life.

3. Arts, Literature and Innovative Design

“Arts, Literature and Innovative Design” dimension values both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. On the one hand, the courses will introduce a wide range of aesthetic concepts, theories of creativity, stylistic types and important works that fall under different disciplinary categories, including literature, visual arts, music, dance, drama, film, and new media and digital art. These courses aim to broaden students’ aesthetic horizons, and abilities for appreciating arts and developing their creative works. On the other hand, hands-on technical training will be offered to strengthen students’ skills of design thinking, and methods of creative works and self-expression. In addition, this dimension also provides field trips and industrial visits. Emphasizing both critical thinking and practical skills, the courses will help students to reflect on social problems so as to connect their creativity with the needs of the local and global communities.

4. Citizen, Society and the World

Courses in “Citizen, Society and the World” dimension aim to guide students to understand and think about the meanings and responsibilities of a citizen, including how to communicate, observe, analyze, and critically reflect on public affairs as well as various systems, phenomena, values and cultures of contemporary societies. This dimension will help students develop their civic literacy, expand their horizons, and enhance their leadership skills. Topics in this dimension include psychology, sociology, gender studies, politics, economics, law, education, and communication. The curriculum design integrates both theory and practice. Besides, inter-disciplinary courses are provided as well. Emphasizing an interactive learning environment, students are expected to engage in discussions of social issues and case studies in addition to lectures.

Three Major Areas of GE Elective Courses

1. Natural Sciences Area

(1) Basic Science
(2) Applied Science
(3) Science, Technology & Society

2. Social Sciences Area

(1) Law and Politics
(2) Sociology, Psychology, Anthropology, Education, and Gender Studies
(3) Management, Informatics, and Economics

3. Humanities Area

(1) Art
(2) Philosophy and Religious Studies
(3) History