Introduction to Korea and China’s Political and Economic Context

• Korea serves as an example of both democracy and significant economic development.
• China presents a complex case; rapid economic growth occurred without significant changes in its political system.
  • The speaker expresses interest in understanding the reasons behind China’s unique trajectory and plans to explore this further.
• In 2017, the speaker began observing the onset of the US-China trade war firsthand.
  • Noted confusion among Chinese citizens regarding the US's intentions and future implications of the trade war.

Academic Pursuits and Motivation

• The speaker’s interest shifts toward the US perspective regarding China, prompting a decision to pursue a PhD in clinical science.
• Encouragement from advisors and mentors in Korea to study in the United States, highlighting a trend where many Korean academics have completed their PhDs in the US.
• Insights from a professor that systems are crafted based on societal consensus and social contracts.
  • Acknowledges the ability to learn valuable lessons from the US political system despite its challenges.
• Two years into the PhD program, the speaker recognizes there is still much to learn.

Mutual Learning Environment

• As a South Korean citizen, the speaker feels the need to engage with US politics, expecting to learn from both students and peers.
  • Emphasizes a collaborative learning environment, where support is offered for writing essays and preparing for exams.
• Establishes open communication where students are encouraged to discuss topics, share experiences, and engage with diverse cultural backgrounds.

Classroom Expectations and Structure

• Office hours:
  • Wednesdays from 3 PM to 5 PM, held in room 08:16 PLC.
• Planned group activities in class, covering readings and relevant current affairs.
• Importance of respecting diversity among students and fostering an inclusive atmosphere that values different perspectives.
• Classroom norms:
  • Allowing others to finish speaking before responding.
  • Maintaining a respectful yet critical dialogue.
• Syllabus overview:
  • Importance of participation is highlighted with 10% of the overall grade allocated to it.
  • Structure includes two in-person exams and four analytical essays, with specific prompt compliance expected.

Essay Writing and Structure

• Syllabus commentary:
  • Essays should be two pages, succinct but not overly complex.
• Guidelines for essays:
  • Avoid summarizing articles; instead, focus on arguments, evidence, and critical analysis of claims.
  • Incorporate multiple sources for a comprehensive outlook on the topic.
• Essay structure:
  1. Introduction: Articulate the main argument and the essay’s purpose.
  2. Body: Present key points supporting or contesting the argument, supported by evidence.
  3. Conclusion: Synthesize prior discussions to reinforce the concluding argument.
• Example provided illustrates how to frame an argument and provide evidence effectively using children’s media influence on behavior as a case study.

Formatting and Citation Guidelines

• Essay format:
  • Use 12-point font, double-space text, and maintain one-inch margins.
  • Essays should not exceed two pages in length.
• Importance of proper citation:
  • Acknowledges the source of information in writing and indicates engagement with relevant literature.
  • Common citation styles discussed: APA, MLA, and Chicago.
• Suggestions on citation management software:
  • Options such as EasyBib, Zotero, and various online citation tools for efficient management.
  • Use of library resources to find and cite academic materials effectively.
• Discussion on available resources:
  • Access to news articles and journals through university libraries, emphasizing the importance of these materials in essay writing.
  • Encouragement to utilize these resources for developing arguments and supporting evidence in essays.

Group Activity and Conclusion

• The final segment of the session dedicated to group work:
  • Organizing students into circles for collaborative discussion.
• Open forum for questions to clarify any misunderstandings or additional inquiries.
• Reinforcement of commitment to student support throughout the semester, both academically and personally.