Module manager: Dr Caroline Fielder
Email: c.l.fielder@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
EAST2082 and EAST2083
This module is approved as a discovery module
This module provides students with an in-depth exploration of the historical, political, and policy landscape that has shaped China’s remarkable economic transformation since 1979. Examining this period is crucial for analysing the foundations of China’s current global role and its internal dynamics. Through this module, students will: - Discuss the key events and developments in the history of the People's Republic of China since the Reform Era. - Examine the political, economic, and social changes that have emerged since 1979 and their influence on contemporary Chinese society. - Develop a nuanced perspective on how these transformations have impacted Chinese institutions and the everyday lives of citizens. - Engage critically with major debates on China's global rise, examining both its domestic impacts and international significance. By focusing on these themes, the module offers students opportunities to critically examine and assess China's rapid development as one of the world’s most influential nations and its broader implications. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.
This module equips students with analytical skills to critically examine the significant political, social, and economic transformations that have reshaped Chinese society and China’s role on the global stage over the past three decades. By investigating major developments since 1979 from multiple perspectives, students examine how these changes impact both domestic society and China’s international engagements.
Learning is supported through a critical essay, which allows students to consolidate their insights and demonstrate their analytical capabilities. Through the essay, students develop essential skills in research, critical thinking, and argumentation, as they evaluate and synthesize various perspectives on China’s transformation. The writing process also hones their ability to present structured arguments, interpret complex information, and apply theoretical frameworks, preparing them for further academic study or policy analysis.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1- Analyse key political, social, and economic changes in China since 1979.
2- Articulate informed viewpoints on these changes and their implications for domestic and global contexts through discussions and written assessments.
3- Synthesise information from diverse sources to construct coherent arguments regarding China's role on the global stage, demonstrating critical thinking and engagement with key debates.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
4- Demonstrate effective research skills by locating, analysing, and integrating relevant scholarly sources into a well-structured essay.
5- Demonstrate effective written communication skills by articulating complex ideas clearly and persuasively
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Seminar | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Private study hours | 180 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 20 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Students receive formative feedback through staff guidance, peer discussions, and an optional piece of written formative assessment. Weekly seminars provide immediate feedback from both staff and peers, fostering analytical and communication skills. From early in the module, students are encouraged to select and share source materials as part of seminar discussions to receive informal feedback on relevance and quality. Additionally, students are encouraged to submit a written source evaluation or short annotated bibliography for written feedback on critical analysis, supporting a stronger final submission.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Essay | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 25/04/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team