Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)

This course examines language in relation to migration in the contemporary multilingual world. It looks at how language is used by people on the move, and by those with whom they interact, in areas including health, education, the law and the workplace. It also explores how language practices are shaped by face-to-face and mediated encounters and by the constraints of political and institutional contexts. Key questions are: What languages and forms of communication get used, when, why and where? What linguistic factors enable and limit access for migrants to services and resources? What are the consequences?

This course examines the basic elements of artificial intelligence (AI) through understanding examples from various applications and hands-on experimentation using AI software tools. In addition to covering the technical aspect of AI through such topics as search and problem solving, knowledge representation, probabilistic reasoning, machine learning, computer vision and image processing, speech and language processing, and robotics, this course will also study the historical perspective, social and ethical implications, as well as potential and limitations of AI. 

This course in astronomy is designed for students with no physics background. Key topics include introduction to our Universe; observation in astronomy; origin of modern astronomy. Newton's law of motions; gravity; light, atoms and telescope. The Sun; stellar formation and evolution; white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes. The Milky Way Galaxy; Normal galaxies, active galaxies and supermassive black holes. Foundation of modern cosmology; dark matter, dark energy and the fate of the Universe; and the beginning of time.

This course examines basic components used to build a coherent and meaningful graphic project/entity, which are central to understanding visual communication on fundamental level. Necessary technical requirements for digital and physical/material application are covered at the start, after which main design tools (image and text) are analyzed along with basic visual design rules and guidelines (unity, hierarchy, balance, contrast, etc.) followed by addressing elements to build a fundamental graphic narrative (color, reduced visuals, full visuals, infographics), concluded by application of aforementioned items across different media: Deliverables ‐ Poster, Booklet, Digital Presentation, with consistency in translation of semiotic values and with showcasing basic visual literacy in execution of each as a final requirement.

This course examines the societal, economical, and cultural impact of integrative systems and the importance of integrating design into the creation of integrative systems. It covers basic design principles, design terminology, design skill-sets, design thinking and process, and how a good design relates to the design principles. Students will also learn about what is an integrative system and the importance of using technology to build an integrative system and how it is decomposed into different sub-systems that involve multiple technology components, interacting with each other.

This course covers the principles of database systems. Toics include conceptual modeling and data models; logical and physical database design; query languages and query processing; database services, including concurrency, crash recovery, security, and integrity; hands-on DBMS experience. Text: A. Silberschatz, H. Korth, and S. Sudershan, DATABASE SYSTEM CONCEPTS. Assessment: assignments, midterm exam, and final exam.

This course introduces marketing from the perspective of the decision-maker. It examines controllable variables (product, price, promotion and distribution), uncontrollable variables (competition, law, society, technology, and economy), consumer behavior and marketing research. Course topics include: the marketing process; marketing strategy, plan, and program; environmental forces that affect the company’s ability to serve its customers; how external and internal marketing environment affect marketing decisions; the marketing information system and its parts; the marketing research process; consumer and business markets; consumer buyer behavior; the adoption and diffusion process for new products; market segmentation, targeting, and positioning; product strategies; pricing strategies; distribution strategies; promotion strategies; and marketing ethics and social responsibility. Text: Kotler, Philip and Gary Armstrong, PRINCIPLES OF MARKETING. Assessment: quizzes, project written report, project presentation, participation, research and in-class exercises.

This course examines the principles and current practices of management. The course focuses upon the interaction between individuals (managers) and the organization. The course explores what managers do through discussion of the four fundamental functions of managers, namely planning, organizing, leading and controlling. Topics include: evolution of management theories, environmental influences on management, organizational culture, strategic management, organizational design, change management, organizational control and human resources management. Text: Jones, G. R., and George, J. M., ESSENTIALS OF CONTEMPORARY MANAGEMENT. Assessment: exams, class participation, group paper, group presentation.

This course aims to cultivate students’ systematic and critical thinking about science, technology, innovation, and society, especially in light of the transition from traditional China to contemporary China. Differing from the usual courses focusing on this subject, this course will take a social and  critical approach, enabling students to understand and analyze the social, political, and cultural preconditions and impacts of scientific and technological development.