Four Areas of GE

The Four Areas University GE courses are defined by the following characteristics. These courses aim to:

• provide the content and the intellectual depth expected of credit-bearing university courses at the same level;
• emphasize breadth and connectivity in addition to depth alone;
• emphasize intellectual ideals rather than skills;
• give an overall perspective of the basic academic framework, concept and methodology of the subject concerned;
• relate the subject matters to human experience and/ or modern life;
• require neither prerequisite nor specialized technical knowledge beyond the basic aptitudes of a university student;
• preferably adopt an interdisciplinary approach, and be conducted from the standpoint of multiple cross-discipline learning; and
• preferably encourage both self-discovery and self-expression.

Area A – Chinese Cultural Heritage

This area introduces students to the essential characteristics of Chinese culture with an integrative approach.

After studying in this area, a student will be able to:

1. identify the essential characteristics of Chinese culture;
2. recognize that Chinese culture involves different aspects and components;
3. develop a critical appreciation of Chinese culture;
4. recognize the relevance of Chinese cultures in modern life.

Area B – Nature, Science and Technology

This area broadens students’ perspectives on nature, science and technology. 

After studying in this area, a student will be able to:

1. describe major principles, discoveries and methods of the course’s field of study;
2. apply basic scientific methods and principles to analyze issues related to nature, science and technology;
3. explore on their own issues related to nature, science and technology that are of interest to them;
4. appraise and evaluate human’s role in being part of nature;
5. appraise and evaluate the impact of science and technology on human life.

Area C – Society and Culture

This area enhances students’ understanding of the ways in which human societies are constituted and human cultures are represented, in their generality as well as diversity. 

After studying in this area, a student will be able to:

1. understand better the ways in which human society and culture are formed;
2. appreciate the diversity of cultures, values and belief;
3. apply methods studied to analyze related issues;
4. apply theories studied to explain related issues.

Area D – Self and Humanity

This area enables students to explore the diversity of human values, reflect on the meaning of human endeavours, and gain a better understanding of themselves.

After studying in this area, a student will be able to:

1. examine oneself with a broadened perspective;
2. appreciate the diversity of values and beliefs;
3. make informed decisions about moral issues;
4. articulate one’s own moral judgment;
5. appreciate creative works with a broad perspective;
6. perform critical reasoning.