College offers summer course in China

The College of Engineering and Penn State Education Abroad is offering a three-week study abroad opportunity in China that is open to students of all disciplines. ENGR 197, "Impact of History, Culture, Society and Environment on Engineering Design in China," will be taught in China from May 18 through June 5, 2009, during the first summer session.

"The course is designed not only for the engineering students, but also for students in other majors, said course instructor Xinli Wu. "I believe students in business, marketing, international politics and other disciplines would also be interested in the course."

The three-credit course may be used as a social and behavioral sciences (GS) and international cultures (IL) course by students in the College of Engineering. Students in other colleges must check with their department to determine whether the course may be used to meet any of their degree requirements.

The course is designed to help students understand some of the current challenges of globalization and the impact of cultural issues on design and technology. China has gradually become one of the major players of the world in engineering, science and technology. Many U.S. and foreign industries have huge investments and business affiliations in China. The status and actions of the Chinese economy have a major impact on the economies of other countries.

Many employers value and recruit students who have international experiences and have some understanding of international cultures. The course will enable students to learn Chinese history and culture in context. Students will visit major engineering projects in Beijing, Shanghai, Dalian, Huangsha and other locations and learn the impact of history, culture, society and environment on engineering design in China. For example, students will visit the GE Shanghai facility, which is the largest GE complex in the world. They will learn how GE conducts business in China and the adjustments to Chinese culture that American companies need to make.

For more information about the course, visit http://www.engr.psu.edu/xinli/ENGR197 or e-mail Xinli Wu at Xinli@psu.edu.