CHIN​ESE STUDIES

Level 1.1

General History of China

This module gives students an outline of Chinese history. It covers all the important events and major historical figures throughout all the dynasties in China. Students should be able to form a general idea about Chinese history and Chinese people, and have some insightful reflections to the development of Chinese history, so that they can read more extensively in Chinese culture and history and do some deeper thinking and analysis.

Introduction to Chinese Cultural History

This module introduces various aspects of Chinese cultural history, including the development of social culture, Chinese philosophy, ethical values, educational system, the arts as well as other aspects of Chinese culture. Students will also be encouraged to critically evaluate Chinese traditions, customs and lifestyles.

Written Communication in Chinese

The module aims to teach students the fundamental skills to write effectively in both academic and professional settings. On top of acquiring the basics of structure and style, students will learn to formulate and develop clear writing objectives. Students will be able to write coherently and cohesively in formal, expository and creative style, and also in academic research paper.

Academic Writing & Presentation

The module focuses on critical thinking, academic writing as well as presentation and listening skills. The module aims to equip students with the skills for academic writing and presentation. Finding and evaluating academic sources, reading, note-taking, essay planning and writing, and presentation skills will be developed in this module.

IT Applications

This module develops the e-competencies by equipping students with the essential computing concepts and necessary skills to use computer applications for information research, organisation, collaboration and presentation.

Career & Professional Preparation 1

This module helps to give students a foundational introduction to their three-year diploma course curriculum and how it prepares them for industry. It will help them to embark on their three-year course with the end in mind, through guided reflection of their personal characteristics, and producing an overall game plan for their future education and career goals. The module aims to deepen students’ commitment to the sector that the course prepares them for.

Health & Wellness

This module aims to help students improve their physical fitness by participating in a physical activity of their choice. This will also give students opportunities to develop confidence, teamwork and leadership.

Level 1.2

Introduction to Chinese Literature

This module surveys the development of classical Chinese literature from ancient times to the late Qing era. It introduces students to representative literary works of each period, ranging from the Book of Songs to the Qing novels. The module explores the historical background of literary works, the lives and experiences of major writers, as well as the structural and formal characteristics of different literary genres.

Contemporary China

The module examines Contemporary China from its political, economic, societal and cultural aspects. In order to deepen their understanding of China, students will learn the challenges and impact that China faces. Topics such as economic development, urbanisation, and migration etc. will be covered in the module.

Introduction to Chinese Drama & Theatre

This module aims to help students develop critical and creative thinking skills to produce short theatre pieces. Students enjoy hands-on experience in directing, writing and acting a short play. The module will also introduce techniques in the application of theatre and drama in various fields of work.

Fundamentals of Translation

This module introduces fundamental strategies and techniques of English/Chinese (EC) and Chinese/English (CE) translation to students. Students learn the basic principles of translation and apply these principles to the translation of a variety of text genres. Students will also explore how a translator makes decisions in actual practice by considering a host of factors, including the author's intention, the desired function of the translated text as well as the needs of the readers.

Speech Communication in Chinese

In this module, students learn the basics of Chinese phonetics as well as speech communication styles in different social settings. It trains students to be effective, articulate, confident, composed and credible Mandarin speakers in a variety of professional situations. The module also explores how communication affects human behavior and social development.

Professional Communication 1

This module prepares students to communicate effectively in business settings. Students will learn both oral and written communication skills that demonstrate concepts of business communication principles, interpersonal skills and intercultural skills. Topics such as proposal and report writing, elevator pitch and professional presentation will be covered.

Course Curriculum (Year 1)

Level 2.1

COMMON MODULES FOR EDUCATION AND BUSINESS SPECIALISATIONS

Intermediate Translation

This module exposes students to the theory and practice of Chinese-English (CE) and English-Chinese (EC) translation in greater depth and breadth. Students will have hands-on experience in translating different types of texts, including advertisements, movie/song/ book titles, news and basic legal writing.

Professional Communication 2

This module prepares students to write effective cover letters and resumes. Preparation and enhancement of portfolio to meet professional standard as well as development of presentation skills, and improvement of job-seeking techniques will also be covered in the module.

EDUCATION SPECIALISATION

Language Lesson Planning and Teaching

The module aims to prepare students to construct lesson plans with appropriate learning activities and develop effective teaching strategies in the teaching of the Chinese language and to assess the diversified learning outcomes of students during classroom time. Students will be exposed to different language pedagogies and teaching techniques for the local primary school context.

Classical Chinese Poetry & Fiction

This module provides a brief introduction of the development of Chinese poetry and fiction starting from pre-Qin to late Ming and Qing dynasty. Poets from different schools and their representative works will be studied. Students will also learn to appreciate and analyze literary works related to ancient social life, history, and culture of the elites in these eras.

Child Development & Learning

This module examines the nature of child development. Students will learn the holistic nature of development, the biological foundation, pre-natal development, brain research and major developmental theories in relation to physical, social, cognitive and emotional development. Students will be introduced to child study and observation techniques.

BUSINESS SPECIALISATION

Introduction to Business

This module aims to provide the fundamentals of financial and business management. Students will be equipped with the relevant technical and conceptual skills in financial and business management to plan, evaluate, execute, control and monitor financial and business projects.

Marketing & Publicity

This module equips students with the necessary strategic skills, as well as tools and techniques to organise and implement marketing and publicity activities. Students are involved in planning, coordinating, staging, and managing events. They will also learn to write persuasively for various audiences, with a focus on the Chinese-language audience. The module is conducted in Chinese.

Chinese Business Communication

This module exposes students to the context of commercial exchange and communication skills between people of different countries and cultures. Students will learn the cultural and social differences, the use of international business language and business correspondence and other non-verbal communication, and understand international business etiquette, and the style and strategy of international business negotiations.

EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHING SPECIALISATION

Child Development 1

This module introduces students to research on brain development and its implications on children’s growth and learning. Early Years developmental milestones will be discussed with significant emphasis on birth to three years of age. Students will develop an understanding of the philosophy of infant and toddler care and development, and the Early Years Development Framework (EYDF). Theories of child development, with emphasis on Attachment theory, characteristic behaviours, and their implications on play and care-giving practices for families and in the infant care context will be covered. Students will also learn appropriate behaviour guidance and interaction strategies for this age group of children that are informed by observations and documentations.

Motor Skills Development

This module equips students with the knowledge and skills to help young children develop perceptual, fine motor and fundamental movement skills consisting of locomotor, non-locomotor and object control skills in a safe environment. Students will learn to observe, plan, implement and facilitate fun, meaningful and age appropriate indoor and outdoor play activities and fundamental movement experiences using an integrated approach to learning.

Practicum

This practicum is for students to experience the practical aspects of working with young children in early childhood settings with a focus on ages three plus and younger. It will support students’ learning in the area of child development, observation of children in various contexts, safety, health, hygiene and nutrition matters and the learning environment for play. Students will be involved in daily routine care and taking on teacher-assistant roles. With observations and documentations, students will plan and implement learning experiences for an individual child. Students will also engage in reflective writing on their roles and interactions with children.

Professional Communication 2

This module prepares students to write effective cover letters and resumes. Preparation and enhancement of portfolio to meet professional standard as well as development of presentation skills, and improvement of job-seeking techniques will also be covered in the module.

The Professional & Reflective Practitioner

This module explores the various roles of an early childhood educator in working with children, families, other professionals and agencies in the community. A range of professional issues will be examined, including stages of professional development, practitioner competencies, continuing education, advocacy and personal growth plans which are aligned with the current early childhood landscape in Singapore. Students will learn communication and reflective skills and how to manage ethical issues in relation to working with children, colleagues and families taking reference from the Code of Ethics, Singapore by AECES. Students will also be equipped to understand self and reflect on personal preferences and style; interpersonal skills and to enhance personal effectiveness through self-mentoring.

Aesthetics & Creative Expression

This module introduces students to an array of visual and performing arts and exposures for the appreciation of the creative art forms. In addition, students will be introduced to progressive theories on Arts education to build firm foundations on the key roles the Arts play within early years settings. Theories related to aesthetic and creativity will also be introduced. Students will learn multiple approaches to engage young children in creative-arts expressions that are aesthetically rich and imaginative. Through both theory and experiential sessions, students will encounter the Arts first-hand and will design Arts experiences that are developmentally appropriate, meaningful and informed by practice.

Child Safety, Health & Socio-emotional Well-Being

This module introduces policies and practices for establishing and maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment for educators and children in the early childhood settings as they relate to the socio-emotional wellbeing of children. Students will understand the importance of nutritional adequacy and balanced meals for children’s optimal growth. They will learn to identify early childhood illnesses and symptoms, and engage in hygienic practices and being able to observe for signs of child abuse and addressing them professionally. ‘Clinical’ practice will be included for students to learn how to manage the day-to-day care routines and transitions for children from infancy to the preschool years.

Level 2.2

COMMON MODULES FOR EDUCATION AND BUSINESS SPECIALISATION

The Chinese in Southeast Asia

This module studies the mass migration of the Chinese to Southeast Asia in the mid-nineteenth century and the Chinese communities in the region. The focus is on their economic, political, cultural activities, identity transformation as well as their contributions towards the region’s development since the early twentieth century.

Critical Thinking and Writing in Chinese

The module aims to equip students with the important techniques of critical analysis to develop their ability to engage in reflective and independent thinking and writing. Students will learn through different genres of Chinese articles, books, and movies, and will be taught to critically analyse them. They will be expected to express their analyses through the written critical pieces.

World Issues: A Singapore Perspective

This module develops a student’s ability to think critically on world issues. Students will discuss a wide range of social, political and cultural issues from the Singapore perspective. It also looks at how city-state Singapore defied the odds and witnessed close to half a century of rapid economic growth, strong political ties and social harmony.

EDUCATION SPECIALISATION

Introduction to Children’s Literature

This module introduces students to children’s literature and explains how it has reflected cultural, social and ideological change. Students will examine the ways in which the child has been depicted in literature, learn to appreciate and critique different genres of children’s books and be able to select age-appropriate books for young children. A study of children’s television and drama is included.

Special Needs and the Exceptional Child

This module introduces students to various special and exceptional needs in primary school children including physical, cognitive, behavioral, emotional and sensory characteristics that make them different. Students will learn about their roles in an inclusive learning environment, design of individualized learning plans and communication with families.

BUSINESS SPECIALISATION

Culture Heritage Tourism

This module studies the tangible and intangible value of cultural heritage in Southeast Asia. It also provides students with the concept of culture tourism. Through visiting historical and heritage sites, and interacting with industry speakers, students will formulate creative projects based on the knowledge and skills learned in the module.

Chinese Business Practice

This module equips students with the basic knowledge of business operations in 21st century China. Students will be exposed to an overview of the global economy and the current China market. They will understand the current business environment of China and gain important commercial knowledge. The instrumental business ethics and Chinese business culture will also be covered to better prepare them for the competitive Chinese commercial world.

EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHING SPECIALISATION

Child Development 2

This module introduces the major theories in child development and their implications on practices in child-rearing and early care and education. The joint contributions of biology and environment to the various aspects of child development will be explored. Students will deepen their understanding of the holistic development of children through observation, recording and analysis of children’s physical, cognitive, social and emotional growth and development. This understanding will help students to link theory to practice and guide the planning of learning experiences and techniques for behaviour guidance. The six learning domains of the Nurturing Early Learners Framework will also be discussed.

Social Emotional Learning

This module equips students with the theoretical knowledge and pedagogical skills to nurture social-emotional competencies and positive values necessary for character formation in young children. It also addresses the role of teachers, in modelling good character traits, in helping children develop self-awareness and self-management skills for their emotional well-being as well as social competence to build strong interpersonal relationships. Students will also take reference from the six learning dispositions (PRAISE) and use children’s picture books to promote positive values, pro-social behaviour, understanding of self and others and integrate social emotional learning across the curriculum.

Language & Literacy

This module introduces students to the theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of literacy development from birth to six years of age including trends and issues within a multicultural and multilingual society. Students will learn to design, organise and evaluate literacy-rich environment that helps facilitate language development; identify suitable prints and other media for reading activities to develop in young children an appreciation for a variety of children’s literature. Students will also plan experiences for diverse learners, facilitate learning using appropriate techniques, assess children’s progress and work with families to enhance children’s language and literacy development towards school readiness.

Principles and Practices in Early Education

This module provides students with an overview of the historical development of early childhood care and education (ECCE), pedagogical principles and contemporary perspectives. Students will also gain an understanding of the different models of practices internationally including the Rights of the Child (UN-CRC) and how they relate to Singapore. ECCE development in the Singapore landscape, policies (of MSF, MOE and ECDA), curriculum and assessment frameworks (such as Kindergarten Curriculum Framework, Early Years Development Framework and SPARK) that guide provisions of quality care and education and key stage outcomes will also be included. Play that is central to trends and research in ECCE will be explored in the context of how developmentally, culturally and individually appropriate it is as a mode for learning in young children from infancy to the preschool years.

Introduction to Children’s Literature

The module aims to equip students with the analytical skills and ability to appreciate children’s literature through different genres such as poems, fairy tales, and fables. Students will also learn how to write stories, poems and fairy tales for children.

Effective Learning Environment for Young Children

This module equips students with the principles to design conducive learning environments to support play and learning for children from birth to six-years of age, noting that the conditions in the environment also affect their behavior. Students will also learn to set up appropriate learning areas to enhance the physical, cognitive and social and emotional development of children. The selection of print and non-print materials, use of technology and the role of the educator will also be covered.

World Issues: A Singapore Perspective

This module develops a student’s ability to think critically on world issues. Students will discuss a wide range of social, political and cultural issues from the Singapore perspective. It also looks at how city-state Singapore defied the odds and witnessed close to half a century of rapid economic growth, strong political ties and social harmony.

Course Curriculum (Year 2)
EDUCATION SPECIALISATION

Course Curriculum (Year 2)
BUSINESS SPECIALISATION

Course Curriculum (Year 2)
EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHING SPECIALISATION*

Conducted by the National Institute of Early Childhood Development (NIEC) in collaboration with Ngee Ann Polytechnic at the NIEC (NP) campus, and recognised by the ​Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA). ​

Level 3.1

COMMON MODULES FOR EDUCATION, EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHING AND BUSINESS SPECIALISATIONS

Chinese Folklore and the Arts

This module offers an introduction of Chinese folklore and the arts. Students will be introduced to the key relationship between folklore and folk arts. Important Chinese festivals and customs from both Mainland China and Singapore will also be discussed with a comparison of specific case studies. Students will be able to grasp a basic understanding of Chinese arts as well as the contemporary cultural phenomenon in Singapore.

​Professional Communication 3

The module will equip participants with personal grooming skills required in a professional setting. Students will be taught grooming and social etiquette as well as appropriate dressing. Other topics include making small talk and handling difficult conversations.

COMMON MODULE FOR EDUCATION AND BUSINESS SPECIALISATIONS​

Introduction to Chinese Linguistics

This module provides the core foundations in Chinese language and linguistics. The course introduces students to formal features of the Chinese language, including its phonological system, philology, lexical features, as well as syntactical structure, to provide a mastery of the language use as applied in their daily lives.

EDUCATION SPECIALISATION

Readings in Chinese Classics

This module introduces the four traditional categories (经史子集 jing shi zi ji) comprising the historical, philosophical and literary aspects of the Chinese classics. Students will learn about the Thirteen Classics, Twenty-Five Histories, and a variety of Chinese philosophical genres and traditional Chinese literature from the pre-Qin to the Qing dynasty.

Educational Technology

This module equips students with the knowledge and skills to become more proficient in integrating technology into teaching and learning. Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of educational technology, and infuse teaching and learning in a creative way through information and communication technology. They will also learn basic digital ethics to meet the rapid and continuing technological changes in the educational field.

BUSINESS SPECIALISATION

Business Translation

This module equips students with the effective skills and techniques for translating business and trade-related documents, including business correspondence, contracts and agreements, memorandums, notices and press releases. Students will learn to translate texts from English to Chinese and vice versa through proper diction and expressions.

Technology in Business

This module provides students with an understanding of e-commerce and technology in business settings against the modern era. Students will learn various platforms on e-commerce. Through this module, students will also master the effective and efficient utilization of technical and organizational procedures to boost business performance in contemporary organizations.

EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHING SPECIALISATION

Curriculum Planning & Implementation

This module provides students with the knowledge and skills for planning, implementing and evaluating developmentally appropriate curriculum for children from birth to three and from three plus to six years of age. Students will take reference from the Early Years Development Framework and the MOE’s refreshed Kindergarten Curriculum Framework to explore the scope and process of integrating learning areas and learning dispositions. Philosophies and beliefs, theoretical underpinnings of how children learn and develop that are fundamental to the meaning of curriculum will be discussed. The supporting environment, the types of learning activities, the role of the educator and different facilitation techniques will also be taught.

Family & Community Partnership

This module equips students with the knowledge of family structure and dynamics in Singapore. Skills in communicating with families, with the understanding of interdependence between early years’ educational setting and families, will be addressed. Models of family involvement will be explored with a focus on interacting respectfully with diverse family groups and tapping on community resources for children in education.

Early Numeracy

This module examines the theoretical framework which underpins young children’s learning of mathematics. Students will be introduced to the principles, knowledge and skills required to plan, implement and evaluate learning experiences that lay the foundations for children to become problem solvers and abstract thinkers. Students will learn to choose developmentally appropriate materials and resources, set up mathematically-rich environment, use teaching techniques to nurture children’s mathematical thinking and assess their learning. The use of technology and integration of numeracy in the other learning domains will also be emphasized.

Discovery of the World

This module provides an overview of how young children make sense of the world they live in and how they acquire knowledge and concepts. The scope of Science, environment awareness, technology in everyday life and learning, the Social Sciences, and culture and heritage, for children’s inquiry will also be covered. Students will learn to use the Constructivist approach to teaching, engage in field exploration and setting up discovery corners. Teaching techniques that support inquiry and independent learning in children will be covered. In addition, developmentally and culturally appropriate learning goals and experiences for children from birth to six years of age will be addressed.

Level 3.2

EDUCATION SPECIALISATION

6-Month Internship / Industry-Based Project**

This module places students on semester-long internships that match their abilities and interests. Alternatively, students may work on career-related or research-related projects in their areas of interest.

Chinese Etymology & Modern Chinese Script*

This module equips students with a basic knowledge of Chinese etymology and the modern Chinese script. It deals with the origin and evolution of Chinese writing, the analysis of the structure, form and meaning of Chinese characters, as well as the reform movement of Chinese writing in later stages. Such knowledge will enhance students’ ability when they become Chinese language teachers, especially when it comes to the teaching and recognition of Chinese characters.

Modern Chinese Grammar*

This module aims to provide students with a basic knowledge of modern Chinese grammar, as well as an understanding of the nature and classification of the Chinese lexicon. It will equip them with the concepts and skills to analyse the various parts of speech and sentence structures of various kinds of modern Chinese texts in daily and academic life. It also deals with the functions of rhetoric in literature and everyday life. It aims to enable students to determine the linguistic structure of an expression and relate it to its meaning and rhetorical effects.

Use of Chinese in Teaching (Hanyu Pinyin)*

This module develops the oral communication skills of students for teaching purposes. Three main sections will be emphasised: Phonetics, Speech Skills and Effective Classroom Communication. Errors in Mandarin pronunciation with regard to vowels and consonants, the four tones and the change of tone with specific words will be taught. Students will also be exposed to the practical knowledge and skills in Hanyu Pinyin, accurate pronunciation and standard Mandarin.

Teaching of Civics & Moral Education*

This module introduces students to the use of various approaches to teach civics and moral education at the primary school level. Students will learn core values such as love and humility, filial piety, harmonious family, courtesy, responsibility, compassion and loyalty. Important subjects like the cultural practices, values, places of worship, customs and traditions of the different races of Singapore will be included in the module.

Techniques in the Teaching of Chinese Language*

This module equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the various teaching methods and various practical techniques in the teaching of different language skills. The use of IT in the teaching of Chinese language will be included.

BUSINESS SPECIALISATION

6-Month Internship / Industry-Based Project**

This module places students on semester-long internships that match their abilities and interests. Alternatively, students may work on career-related or research-related projects in their areas of interest.

EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHING SPECIALISATION

Working with the Exceptional Child

This module introduces students to various exceptional needs in young children including physical, cognitive, behavioral, emotional and sensory characteristics that make them different. Trends and issues in relation to inclusive practices and policies will be covered. Students will learn about their roles in an inclusive learning environment, design of individualised learning plans and communication with families. Students will also explore community resources and professionals that provide support for children with additional needs.

Student Internship Programme (3 months)

The Internship Programme with professional practitioners acting as mentors enable students to acquire the work experience needed for their chosen areas of interest. The organisations involved are selected for their capacity to allow students to learn different aspects of work in the early childhood industry. The students’ learning outcomes are assessed by their respective internship mentors and NIEC supervisors. Students could also work closely with staff in the early childhood centres on projects that will benefit children, families and the community.

*For students with MOE Teacher Training Scheme

**For students not with NIE in final semester

Course Curriculum (Year 3)
EDUCATION SPECIALISATION

Course Curriculum (Year 3)
BUSINESS SPECIALISATION

Course Curriculum (Year 3)
EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHING SPECIALISATION