GSIPM

In this proposed course, students will conduct academic research to explore the topics of trade, diplomacy, and development in China.  The field research component of the course will run from June 7th to June 28th, 2016.  Students will have the option to stay in China for another two weeks if they wish to conduct more field research on their own.

More Details

During the spring 2016 semester, students from both MIIS and Middlebury will work with three professors to develop project ideas and to design appropriate research methodologies with assistance from the Meta Lab at MIIS.  In June, the group will travel to Beijing, where top scholars will workshop their research ideas.  The group will then travel to research sites in teams consisting of at least one professor and a team of MIIS and Middlebury students.  Interpreters from the MIIS Translation and Interpretation (T&I) program will travel with each team to assist with language.  At each site, the team will conduct fieldwork using the methodologies developed on campus.  Students will have the option of incorporating their original research into an independent study project or Master’s thesis upon their return to campus in fall 2016.

Requirements & Expectations

• No language requirement, although some Mandarin would be helpful
• Spring 2016: a two-hour/week independent study section with Professor Lewis (this doesn’t have to be for credit, but does require participation)

You Will Learn

• Research design
• Methodologies like surveys, interviews, statistical modeling, archival research, etc.
• How to conduct research in the field, including adapting to field conditions and challenges
• Chinese language skills (with help from the T&I students)
• How to analyze the research you collect in the field
• How to write academic articles for publication based on your fieldwork findings

Cost

The program cost of $2,000 will include instructions, guest lectures, lodging, 2 meals per day, and field trip bus rental. It does NOT include airfare to China, local transportation, domestic travel, dinners, visa fee, or additional costs for extended stay.

How to Apply

Interested students should submit an unofficial transcript, C.V. and a one-page essay explaining why you would like to take the course, your goals for the experience, and the particular strengths, interests, and experiences you would bring to the course.  Please submit the application materials to Professor Liang (wliang@miis.edu) by FEBRUARY 29th.  For additional information, please contact Professor Liang or Professor Lewis (olewis@middlebury.edu).