Recently, the Zhejiang Education Department (ZJED) announced the results of the Provincial First-Class Undergraduate Module Scheme. 6 FHSS modules were recognised as Provincial Level First Class UG Modules this round, with the School of Education and English, the School of Economics, and the School of International Communications winning 3 modules each.

1. ECON3070 Numerical Methods in Economics

Module Convenor: Dr Chee Kian Leong

Module Introduction: This module aims to provide students with a knowledge of numerical methods in economics and an understanding of how these methods could be applied. Using MATLAB and other software to explain and demonstrate numerical methods and their calculations, the course discusses the application of these methods to microeconomics and macroeconomics. This distinctive module stimulates students’ interest in the application of computational methods to specific problems, providing them with the necessary computational methods to prepare them for innovative work in the digital economy, and to contribute to the next phase of China’s economic development. This will contribute to the next stage of development of the Chinese economy in terms of technological innovation, big data and artificial intelligence.

2. ECON2031 Monetary Economics

Module Convenor: Dr Yifei Cao

Module Introduction: This module provides a systematic introduction to the logic of the operation of the contemporary Western financial system, the implementation and operational mechanisms of monetary policy, and integrates them with local financial development and the operation of monetary policy in China. Students will gain a systematic understanding of the current state of the financial system and monetary policy implementation at home and abroad, and will be able to analyze, discuss and debate controversial issues. They will be able to collaborate with others to write group-essays based on seminars, debates and presentations on given topics.

3. INCM1031 Media and Society

Module Convenor: Dr Paul Martin

Module Introduction: This module aims to provide students with a basic knowledge of communication studies and introduce them to the main approaches to media studies, including media texts, the media industry, how other players (e.g. governments) use media, and knowledge of audiences. Students will come through the module with a solid foundation in media studies, discuss the relationship between media and society, understand new developments in the media industry, and could produce informed predictions about how they affect society.

4. INCM2026 Researching Communications 1

Module Convenor: Dr Corey Schultz

Module Introduction: This module aims to introduce students to key research directions and methods in cultural, film and media studies and to distinguish communication, media and cultural studies from sociology and political science. It covers a range of methodologies in communication, culture and media studies, focusing on the key differences between quantitative and qualitative research, the requirement for historical research, the relevance of researchers to their subjects, and the definition of the research “field” within the research “discipline”.

5.EDEN3000 Advanced Grammar for Study and the Professions

Module Convenor: Dr Dan Shi

Module Introduction: This module provides students with an in-depth understanding of the study of English language knowledge and Western linguistic theory, with an emphasis on developing students’ skills in the application and analysis of English grammar. Through practical application and grammatical analysis, students are guided to a deeper understanding of the verbal functions and uses of English grammar in academic and professional contexts. Upon completion of this course, students will have achieved the following learning outcomes in terms of knowledge, competence and professionalism: 1) a deep understanding of the appropriate use of syntactic structures and lexical variations in English in academic and professional contexts; 2) an expanded knowledge of English grammar and the interface between syntax and semantics; 3) an understanding of the relationship between English grammar rules and language use in different contexts; 4) an improved ability to use English in different academic and professional contexts; 5) an enhanced self-confidence in using correct and skillful English in different academic and professional contexts.

6. EDEN3003 Workplace Discourse

Module Convenor: Dr Ping Du

Module Introduction: This module focuses on the study of discourse and the development of communication skills in the workplace. Communication and collaboration are important competencies that determine the success of a career. Students will not only learn international cutting-edge theories during the course, but also how to apply these theories to improve their workplace communication skills. The module focuses on developing students’ ability to 1) use discourse analysis tools to analyse examples of real workplace communication scenarios; 2) develop effective communication strategies based on workplace and personal development goals; 3) use language effectively and balance the twin goals of “getting the job done” and “maintaining interpersonal relationships”; 4) think independently, reflect proactively and improve their communication practices; communicate independently; 5) express disagreement effectively in the process of problem solving and disagreement; 6) systematically analyse situational factors affecting communication and use negotiation strategies to resolve conflicts.