GEMs Offered

General Education Modules
1

Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences

Office of Programmes

GEK1052 Community Service and Social Action
Offered by Office of Programmes
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-4-3
Prerequisite(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): Nil
Cross-listing(s): Nil
Is it possible to enrich ones intellectual, ethical, and interpersonal capacities, while engaging in socially valuable action? The
concept of service learning says Yes. This module affords students the opportunity to engage in socially valuable action while
critically reflecting on the nature of their action and the problems it seeks to address. The goal is for students to develop a holistic
awareness of the variety of problems (e.g. the environment, poverty, social discrimination) that call for action; how such problems
can or should be addressed; and, the relationship between the specifics of these problems and larger social and ethical issues.

Chinese Studies

GEK1007 Chinese Heritage: History and Literature
Offered by Department of Chinese Studies
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Students who major in Chinese Studies or Chinese Language.
The module aims to provide a general understanding of traditional China by focusing on two important aspects of its civilisation:
history and literature. In the first half of the semester, students will be introduced to the major political, intellectual, and social
developments in the various dynasties of imperial China. In the second half of the semester, the module calls attention to the major
literary genres that dominated each historical period, from the pre-Qin era through the Tang dynasty. In doing so, we offer students
an overview of what formed the cornerstone of the civilisation of traditional China. (This module is taught in English.)

GEK1021 Crime Fiction in English & Chinese
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil
This course introduces first and second year students to methods of analysis of literary texts. This is achieved by juxtaposing two
literary genres from different traditions (Western detective fiction and Chinese court-case fiction) and exploring the issues that arise
from reading them together. We will seek to link the role of technical features in the texts with the production of meaning for the
individual reader and for society. Issues will include the role of watchdog figures; the possibility that crime may arise from a failure of
society to redress wrongs; the relationship between class and the justice system; and basic problems of justice. (This module is
taught in English.)

GEK1053 Chinese Music, Language and Literature
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil
People often talk about the link between music and language, but to what extent is such a link real and ascertainable? If such a link
does in fact exist, can we study it in a tangible and scholarly manner? Furthermore, does such a link have anything to tell us about
cultural traditions? This course attempts to answer these questions from a uniquely Chinese perspective. Using primary and
secondary source materials from past and present, we will draw on the rich Chinese musical, linguistic and literary traditions in
dealing with these questions. (This module is taught in English.)

GEK1062 Bridging East and West: Exploring Chinese Communication
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5

Prerequisite(s): This module will be taught in English. There is a basic requirement of CLB. We hope to invite experts to give guest-
lectures in their field of interest. If this is done in Chinese, translation will be provided.
Preclusion(s): Nil
This module offers NUS students an opportunity to explore different aspects and contexts of Chinese communication. The target
audience is English-speaking undergraduates with minimal Chinese language proficiency. The various contexts of Chinese
communication include advertising, business, the press, social communication, regional usages, pop culture, translations, meaning
of Chinese names, code-switching and the use of Chinese dialects. It is intended to serve as a primer for students interested in
these areas of study. A minimum Chinese language proficiency of CLB is required. (This module is taught in English.)

GEK2047 Exploring Chinese Cinema: Shanghai-Hongkong-Singapore
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): CH2297
Cross-listing(s): CH2297
This course offers an introduction to the genres and aesthetics of Chinese movies, studying the cinematic interaction between
Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Singapore. The main body of the course discusses the major types of Chinese movies, including opera,
musical, action, and horror films. The course addresses several issues, for example, inter-Asian connections in film production;
entertainment industry bridges between the three cities; thematic and aesthetic differences of the films produced in the three places
when dealing with similar subjects and figures, e.g., female ghost, the national hero, and nostalgia. The course will be taught in
English.

Communications and New Media

GEM1036 Globalisation and New Media
Offered by Department of Communications and New Media
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Nil
This module offers students an introduction into the role of new communication technologies in the context of globalization. We
will explore various aspects of global communication flows including the global reach of new media and its consequences, global
and transnational timesharing and workflows, the role of new media in global and local politics, and the potential of new and
traditional communication channels in the context of various forms of activism and communication for social change. The role of
culture in global communication and ways in which cultural processes shape and are shaped by the landscape of globalization
will be emphasized.

GEM2027 Introduction to Public Speaking
Offered by Department of Communications and New Media
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 1-2-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): NM4200 Introduction to Public Speaking
This module prepares students to be effective and efficient public speakers. It offers an overview of the theories of oral
communication and public speaking, with particular emphasis on the practical aspects of researching, organizing and presenting
speeches. It looks into adapting evidence, language, visual aids and other message characteristics for strategic communication
to designated audiences. It emphasizes principles and methods of selected forms of public speaking for various purposes,
audiences and contexts and includes practice in the critical analysis of speeches.

Economics

GEK1018 Economic Issues in the Developing World
Offered by Department of Economics
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): GEM1018K
This module aims to highlight the major economic problems that characterise the present-day developing countries, with special
reference to ASEAN and East Asian NIEs. While the problems and issues are brought out in a non-technical fashion, the relevant
policies are discussed with the help of appropriate empirical evidences, so as to allow the students to gauge the extent of success
achieved by various policies. The course is likely to impart useful knowledge and information on the prime development issues that

concern the developing world today. After the successful completion of the module, students should be able to identify the main
problems that are currently faced in Asia and would be able to make some policy suggestions in dealing with these problems. They
will also gain some useful experience on the economic development of Singapore.

English Language and Literature

GEK1000 An Introduction to Literary Studies
Offered by Department of English Language and Literature
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Prerequisite(s): Exempted from NUS Qualifying English Test, or passed NUS Qualifying English Test, or exempted from further
CELC Remedial English modules.
Preclusion(s): EN1101E, EN2101, EN2101E. Students who are majoring in EN, or intend to major in EN should not take GEK1000.
Cross-listing(s): EN1101E
Human beings are tale-telling animals. We all tell stories, and we all listen to them, read them and watch them. This module looks
at the ways in which people tell stories, the kinds of stories they tell, and the meanings those stories generate. It focuses, in
particular, upon the telling, and gives special attention to questions concerned with that. Texts include a novel, a play, films, short
stories, poems and oral tales.

GEK1011 The Nature of Language
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): EL1101E
Cross-listing(s): EL1101E
This introductory overview of linguistics aims at equipping students with a solid foundation in the object, methods and goals of the
science of spoken language, the prime tool of human communication. Through a principled analysis of patterns of sound, form and
meaning at the levels of word, sentence and text, students will gain insight into what it means to say that language is a rule-
governed system and an organic whole. The results of this exploration will be useful to those interested in the relationship between
language and mind, society and culture.

GEK1031 American Film
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Preclusion(s): Nil
This course surveys American cinema from its early years to more recent productions. Individual works of American cinema will be
studied from the standpoint of film aesthetics and cultural history. Directors to be studied may include Woody Allen, Francis Ford
Coppola, D. W. Griffith, Frank Capra, Alfred Hitchcock, Stanley Kubrick, David Lynch, David O. Russell, Erich von Stroheim, Orson
Welles and Billy Wilder.

GEK1040 Why Literature?
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Preclusion(s): Nil
The issue of the relevance of Literature, and in particular of the formal study of Literature within the education system, has been
hotly debated in contemporary Singapore. This module teaches students basic skills of literary analysis using a variety of
approachable and interesting texts (short stories, poetry, drama and film), explores a series of debates about literary study, and
looks at the historical development of literary studies in the a Singaporean and global context. In the latter part of the module, we will
look beyond the present, and consider what role Literature might play in imagining a variety of futures.

GEK1044 Popularising the Classics
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
Preclusion(s): Nil
This module examines the ways that contemporary cinema adapts classic literary texts, such as re-creating a historical period, re-

situating the text in a different cultural context and using film style to re-work the storys to interrogate what these methods of
adaptation suggest about attitudes to the classics, and the continuing desire to reproduce it. Students will be introduced to the
fundamentals of literary and film styles, and encouraged to adopt a self-reflexive approach to the notions of classic and popular,
to re-assess such assumptions as the universality and timelessness of the classic versus the mass appeal of the popular.

GEK1046 Introduction to Cultural Studies
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Nil
The course examines the import of culture for understanding human activity and the history of the emergence of Cultural Studies
as a discipline within the university. Specifically it explores the theoretical and methodological tools that have defined the field, as
well as the objects to which they are turned. The course addresses the following areas: theories and models of communication; the
history of broadcasting and broadcasting institutions; current and future developments in media technology; and cyberspace.
Starting with an introduction to key theoretical concepts, the course examines the production and consumption of a range of popular
cultural forms including film, television, popular fiction, and music.

GEK1049 Introduction to Narrative
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): EL, EN and TS Majors
The module will introduce students to some basic concepts of narrative. It will expose them to narrative as a basic idea that runs
through their lives, and which has its most sophisticated manifestations in literature and cinema. While the analysis of literary and
cinematic texts will play an important part in the module, students should also develop an awareness of how narrative is used in
everyday discourse, and how it shapes their response to reality.

GEK1055 The Theatre Experience
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil
Theatre is an ancient art form that enjoys continuing popularity in many modern societies, including Singapore. Why is this? And
what can it tell us about both the distinctiveness of the theatre experience, and the place and times we live in? To answer these
questions, this module, which requires no prior knowledge of theatre, starts with the spectator's experience and works outwards.
Part One identifies theatres unique qualities. Part Two explores how to analyse them. Part Three considers theatricality in mass
culture. Lectures and tutorial discussions will draw on plays, critical writings and theatre performances.

GEK1058 Language and the Preservation of Culture
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): GEK1058A
Cross-listing(s): Arguments that language is critical to the preservation of culture are common. These usually assume that language
is a container for cultural content. But in a culturally complex world, it is critical to appreciate the metaphorical nature of this
assumption, and the kinds of evidence that could be used as justification for or against it. The module encourages students to
critically examine the metaphorical basis for claims concerning the relationship between language and culture, such as the following:
(i) ones mother tongue is the best means for preserving ones culture, and (ii) languages and cultures can be owned.

GEK1058A Language and the Preservation of Culture
Offered by Department of English Language and Literature (OdySEA)
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): GEK1058
Language and the preservation of culture begins with the idea that language is both the object and the means of cultural
preservation. We will consider the nature of language, identity, culture and their interrelationships and why this matters to people.
We will read about the multiple factors that go into language shift, maintenance and revitalization. Through an exploration of various
perspectives, arguments and case studies, we will discuss and learn about how we preserve or eradicate languages and the

implications of such acts for cultural preservation. Finally, we will investigate the challenges and alternative possibilities that
globalization brings.

GEK1059 Investigating Standard English
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): EL Majors
In a globalised world, English is regarded as the means for facilitating, among others, international communication and access to
higher education. Central to the language is the notion of standard English and the main varieties of spoken and written English
associated with it. With a plethora of varieties of English (such as U.S. English, U.K. English and Singaporean English), we need a
clearer understanding of standard English. This module aims to engage students actively in the investigation of what standard
English entails; it offers a systematic understanding of the linguistic and political issues surrounding the notion of standard English.

GEK1063 The Singlish Controversy
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Preclusion(s): Nil
The status and legitimacy of Singlish is a hotly debated topic in Singapore society. Supporters of Singlish claim it contributes to the
Singaporean identity and helps Singaporeans establish a connection with each other overseas. Detractors claim it jeopardises
Singaporeans ability to learn Standard English and conveys a poor image of Singapore society on the global stage. This module
introduces students to the various arguments and assumptions surrounding the Singlish controversy. It provides students with the
conceptual tools needed to better understand the complexity behind an issue that is often presented in simplistic and emotional
terms.

GEK2018 Identity and Western Literature
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
Preclusion(s): Nil
This module examines the relation between literature and the expression of individual identity. Since classical times, western
literature has been centrally concerned with the various ways in which individuals negotiate with social, political, cultural, and
personal constraints. And these constraining conditions often correspond to an aspect of a central protagonists identity: Oedipus
sets out to learn why his city is destroyed by a plague; to his horror, he discovers that he is to blame. This module looks at some of
the ways in which fictional characters confront the various oppressive constraints that express different aspects of social and
individual identity

GEK2020 Introduction to Film Art
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Preclusion(s): EN2241
Film analysis and interpretation are the focus of this course. From Orson Welles to Wong Kar Wai, filmmakers of different periods
have rendered their artistic visions through the medium of film. How do we approach, understand and appreciate the enticing and
often challenging cinematic visions of major film directors? Covering the basic elements of film style like mise-en-scene,
cinematography, editing and sound, this course will introduce students to the analysis of film as a complex artistic medium. A variety
of films from different countries will be studied, including works by Howard Hawks, Eric Khoo, Akira Kurosawa, Yasujiro Ozu, Erich
von Stroheim, Lars von Trier, Orson Welles, Wong Kar Wai and Zhang Yimou.

GEM1003 Introduction to Theatre & Drama
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 1-1-2-4-2
Preclusion(s): TS1101E
Cross-listing(s): TS1101E
This module is divided into theory and practice. The theoretical component will introduce the semiotic approach to accessing and

analysing both the dramatic and performance texts, serving as a value-neutral system with which to evaluate classical and
contemporary Asian and Western performance traditions. Through the practical sessions, students will experience hands-on the
various aspects of a stage production, from acting, directing to design and stage management.

GEM1006 Study of Movement Aesthetics
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-2-0-3-3
Preclusion(s): Nil
This module aims to develop in students an awareness of the aspects of Movement Aesthetics, through practice and theory,
understanding that movement (beyond the confines of dance) has become increasingly vital as an autonomous vocabulary in
contemporary performance. They will be guided on a discovery of how: thoughts and feeling are expressed through a variety of
media, music, art and literary creations; simple objects and everyday activities can evoke emotional responses; any or all of these
might be re-expressed through body movement.

GEM1031 The Study of Names
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): EL Majors.
This module explores the phenomenon of proper names from a linguistic perspective initially, and will consider the notion of
properhood. However, no background in linguistics will be assumed. The module will subsequently move on into other accounts and
approaches, among which might include those which are historical (onomastic), literary, sociological and political in emphasis.
Attention will be paid to both anthroponyms (personal names) and toponyms (place names). There will be scope for students to
develop the module in the direction of their interests in the mini project.

GEM1033 Religion and Film
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Nil
Cinematic and literary expression are often centred on religious topics. By studying the ways in which religion exists in these texts,
we can see the vitality of cultural expression and learn how religion exists in the public imagination. No prior training in artistic
interpretation or religious history is required, though the course presumes a healthy curiosity about religious phenomena and cultural
expression. The course trains students to think about why people sometimes enjoy seeing films about painful topics, what is the
difference between studying and practising religion is, and how we discuss whether an innovative vision is authentic.

GEM1900 Thinking, Reasoning, and Inquiry
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Nil
This module seeks to develop the capacity for critical thinking, critical reading, reasoning, and independent inquiry needed for
project work and Honours Theses, and for the critical evaluation of articles, proposals, and ideas. Based on a conceptual
understanding of the mathematical, scientific, and humanistic modes of inquiry, we will do a series of exercises in thinking and
reasoning: choosing between competing models of the solar system, evaluating models of the brain and mind, justifying literary
interpretations, defending or refuting claims of moral legitimacy, deducing consequences from axioms and definitions, and designing
experiments to test hypotheses. For examples of the concepts and exercises, see http://www.cdtl.nus.edu.sg/ctp

GEM2001 Introduction to Asian Theatre
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): TS2232
Cross-listing(s): TS2232
This module focuses on the classical theatre forms of India, China, and J apan. Each tradition is examined within its socio-cultural
context. Textual analysis of classical scripts from Sanskrit drama, Chinese opera, and J apanese theatre will also be conducted.
Students learning experience is often constructed in stimulated theatre settings to promote their creativity and to provide them with

a working knowledge of performing arts. Students interested in theatre studies, South Asian studies, Chinese studies, and J apanese
studies may particularly benefit from this module.

GEM2026 Film Genres: Stars and Styles
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
Preclusion(s): TS2243. Students who are majoring in TS, or intend to major in TS should not take GEM2026.
Cross-listing(s): TS2243
This module focuses on the conventions of a variety of film genres and styles, ranging from Hollywood and Chinese cinemas to
Bollywood and animation. It traces the development of each genre, examining its defining characteristics, the role and influence of
the star system and individual stars such as actors and directors, and its relations to other film styles and industries. Through a
group creative project, students will make a film that involves the practical application of critical ideas.

GEM3002 Global Cities and Local Cultures
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil
The module offers opportunity to study the dynamics of cultural production in the modern metropolis. It aims to provide the
theoretical models and the analytic methods from which to understand this dynamics in terms of the interplay between the global
and the local. The module provides a multidisciplinary approach to the study of relations between culture and the metropolis from
the following perspectives:
(i) The history and politics of urban development;
(ii) The relation of space to place in the modern city;
(iii) The metropolis as a locus for the intersection of modernity and modernism;
(iv) The economic bases of metropolitan patronage and arts management;
(v) The work of the audience in an age of electronic media;
(vi) Ethnicity and Popular Culture;
(vii) Utopias, dystopias and Heterotopias;
(viii) Globalism, Regionalism and Neo-colonialism in Metropolitan culture;
(ix) The Infernal City;
(x) Urban Sound: J amaica.

GEM3003 Literature and the Other Arts
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-4-3
Prerequisite(s): Cohort 2011 and before: EN1101E or EN2101E or GEK1000.
Cohort 2012 onwards: (i) EN1101E or EN2101E or GEK1000, AND (ii) EN2201 or EN2202 or EN2203 or EN2204
Preclusion(s): EN3246
Cross-listing(s): EN3246
The module will focus specifically on the relation between contemporary poetry and painting. It will provide students an opportunity
to develop a systemic understanding of the relation between poetic language and the visual medium of painting. The general
component will provide a methodology for the analysis of the relation between the two arts, and the practical component will entail a
detailed study of representative poems directly inspired by specific paintings. Examples of poetry will be confined to the
contemporary period and the English Language. The module will provide opportunity for students to undertake a small research
project which will explore the relation between poetry and painting in non-Anglophone cultures, using translated texts.

Geography

GEK1001 Geographical J ourneys: Exploring World Environments
Offered by Department of Geography
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-1-4-3
Preclusion(s): GE1101E. Not for students majoring, or intend to major in GE.
Cross-listing(s): GE1101E
This module introduces contemporary issues shaping our world and the geographical perspectives needed to understand them.
Starting with how geographers view the world, the module offers a lens to analyse issues like climate change, urban flooding,
human-environment relations, challenges of migration, cultural diffusion, economic integration and so forth. Each lecture will touch

on contemporary scenarios and geographical analyses of issues. Students will also be exposed to field work techniques and
strategies of project management in group discussions and project assignments. The goal is to develop students with strong
geographical imaginations better able to understand the world and all its complexities.

GEK1022 Geopolitics: Geographies of War & Peace
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
The course introduces key ideas and contemporary themes of geopolitics. Students will learn about the geography of conflict,
war and peace-making in the twentieth century, leading to an understanding of current and future trends and debates, including
issues such as the New (and Old) World Order, terrorism, peacekeeping and conflicts in and over cyberspace and natural
resources. We will introduce students to a wide-range of sources and to encourage critical use of media, academic material and
internet resources. Our objective is that students taking the course will develop a deeper and life-long understanding of the
geography of international affairs.

GEK1037 Seeing the World Through Maps
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil
In general, this module is aimed at getting student to critically engage with the work or power of maps in shaping the historical
emergence of the modern world and in its ongoing transformation. To do this we will combine diverse modes of learning, covering
issues of knowledge and content (the history of cartography), practical skills of map making/reading, and critical skills of evaluating
and interpreting maps. We will stimulate a critical awareness of mapping as an evolving technology that has far-reaching social and
political considerations.

GEK2001 Changing Landscapes of Singapore
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): SSA2202, SE2241
Cross-listing(s): SSA2202
This module attempts to understand the rationale of changes in Singapores urban landscape. It places these changes within a
framework that considers Singapores efforts to globalise and examines how policies are formulated with the idea of sustaining an
economy that has integral links sub-regionally with Southeast Asia while developing new spatial linkages that will strengthen its
position in the global network. Emphasis is also given to recent discussions about how diversity and difference in the perception and
use of space pose a challenge to the utilitarian and functional definition adopted by the state.

GEK2017 Facing Global Environmental Challenges
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Nil
This module provides an introduction to the major environmental challenges facing global society, to key ideas and debates over
sustainable development, and to the major dimensions of policy with which to tackle these issues. Concepts will be illustrated using
examples from
(i) topical and important environmental issues and
(ii) major arenas of human activity (such as transport, industrial production, agriculture, urban management and the energy sector).
After doing this module, students will understand and be able to apply the central concepts that arise repeatedly in debates over the
environment and development dilemmas. The module is aimed at all NUS undergraduates with an interest in environmental-related policy
issues.

History

GEK2000 The U.S.: From Settlement to Superpower
Offered by Department of History
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5

Preclusion(s): AS2237, HY2237. GEK2000 is not for students majoring in HY.
Cross-listing(s): AS2237, HY2237
This module seeks to provide students with a basic grounding of American historical, and cultural developments from European
colonisation to the end of the twentieth century. It will examine both the internal developments in the United States, as well as its
growing importance in international politics. By offering a range of social, economic, and political perspectives on the American
experience, it will equip students with the knowledge for understanding and analysing the dominance of the United States in
contemporary world history and culture. This course is designed for students throughout NUS with an interest in American history.

GEK2008 Environmental History
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): HY2235. GEK2008 is not for students majoring in HY
Cross-listing(s): HY2235
This module is designed to introduce students to major themes in Environmental History, meaning the historical study of the mutual
influence of humans and the environment. After critically evaluating how the discipline of Environmental History has developed,
lectures and discussions will focus on topics such as disease, agriculture, gender and modern environmental problems. Lectures will
be combined with research assignments that will help students better understand how a historian approaches a topic. Students
interested in history, the environment or new approaches to the past will be interested in the course.

GEK2015 East-West Artistic Interactions
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): HY2225. GEK2015 is not for students majoring in HY.
This module explores Europe and Asias mutual fascination with, and appropriation of, each others visual and material cultures.
From the Buddhist art of Central Asia to KL Petronas Towers, through medieval textiles, chinoiseries, Orientalist paintings, colonial
architecture, museums, modernist avant-gardes and postmodernism, the module surveys chronologically some fifteen centuries of
East/West artistic interactions while introducing students to the disciplines (art and cultural history, post-colonial and cultural studies)
concerned with visual culture. The module is open to students from all faculties and does not require background knowledge of art
history.

GEM2003 Why History? The Twentieth-Century, 1914-1989
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): EU2219, HY2241. GEM2003 is not for students majoring in HY or EU.
Cross-listing(s): EU2219, HY2241
This module aims to introduce both second and third year undergraduates to both the main events of the twentieth-century and
some of the fundamental methodological issues involved in the study of history. These learning objectives will be met by directing
students to engage a wide range of documents so that they both understand significant historical developments and also gain
comprehension of the ways in which historians pursue enquiry. Major topics will include the First World War, the interwar period,
World War II, the Cold War, the 1960s and the collapse of Communism.

GEM2005 Film and History
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 4-0-0-2-4
Preclusion(s): HY2243. GEM2005 is not for students majoring in HY.
Through a study of film this module will examine the interpretation of history in film, and contrast filmic representation of history with
printed sources. Students will critically evaluate a set of issues regarding film and history such as: What light do films shed on the
past? How reliable are films as the grounds for making inferences about the past? What are the similarities and differences in the
criteria for the critical evaluation of historical films and the historians accounts of the past? The module is for students with an
interest in film as a form of social expression.

GEM2024 Urban Asia
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 0-8-0-2-0
Prerequisite(s): No prior background in Asia, Asian Studies, or Asian languages is necessary. Students taking courses at their home

universities in fields such as urban history, sociology, geography, urban anthropology, urban and regional planning, architecture,
cultural studies, environmental studies/environmental engineering, can all profit from this module. The course is pitched to students
in their second or third years of study in a three or four year undergraduate curriculum, though we will accept undergraduates at
any level.
Preclusion(s): Nil
The module is a critical survey of Asian urbanism, combining insights from history, sociology, anthropology, architectural theory &
criticism, cultural studies, and other urban related disciplines. Asias cities are among the largest and most vibrant in the world.
They also face problems and challenges which, in the process of resolution, will likely create new urban forms with global
consequences. The module will consider the Asian City as a local, regional, and global phenomenon, and discuss such sites as
Singapore, Mumbai, Shanghai, Tokyo, Bangkok, and J akarta, while paying attention to smaller cities and the process of urbanization
itself. Core theories will be introduced and applied, while at the same time considering Asian cities on their own ground.

J apanese Studies

GEK1002 Introduction to Japanese Studies
Offered by Department of J apanese Studies
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): J S1101E. Students majoring in J S are precluded from taking this module.
Cross-listing(s): J S1101E
This module aims to introduce students to the subject of J apanese studies from a multidisciplinary approach. It has three main
components. The first component is humanities, covering art, philosophy, history and literature. The second component is social
sciences, which includes sociology, anthropology, politics and economics. The third component is linguistics and language
development. Students will learn about the methods and theories the various disciplines contribute to the study of J apan. Audio-
visual materials, fieldwork, guest lectures, study tours, projects and debates will supplement lecture and tutorials.

GEK2022 Samurai, Geisha, Yakuza as Self or Other
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil
This module challenges the foundation of human knowledge. Examining cultural icons from J apans past and present we will
unpack the assumptions, stereotypes, narrative strategies, and visualising techniques of representing J apan. Students will
probe one or more of J apans three famous cultural icons the samurai, the geisha, and/or the yakuza as they appear in
literature, visual and performance arts, and academic writings. By the end of the module, students will not only have a richer
understanding of the realities behind such icons, but more significantly, they will be equipped to challenge stereotypes of
J apan presented by journalism, popular culture, and the humanistic and social sciences. Ultimately such discovery will lead
students to question their own knowledge of self and other. Students should refer to the module IVLE page for details of the
selected icon(s) for the current semester.

GEK2042 Cultural Borrowing: Japan and China
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil
Humans have always actively borrowed from other cultures. Such borrowing is a creative process which influences aspects of life
ranging from basic material needs to aesthetic appreciation. Often, however, cultural borrowing is labelled as simple imitation. This
results in cultural stereotypes that impede understanding of other cultures. Using Chinese and J apanese cultural borrowings as
illustration, this module teaches second and third year students to analyze the creative process of cultural exchange. By developing
theoretical perspectives from the study of China and J apan, students will learn about exchanges among culture in general.

GEM1046 Home
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil
Few words in the English language (or any language) are as evocative and emotionally-charged as home. But how do we
determine what we call home, and why should we take home seriously? This module explores the political, social, economic, and
cultural aspects of the complex idea of home. Major topics include: sense of place, home technologies and design, gender and

housework, home and travel, globalisation, nationalism, homelessness, exile, and representations of home. Students will complete
the module with a new appreciation for the complexity of the places house, neighbourhood, nation, planet they call home.

GEM1047 Understanding Consumption
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Nil
Consumption has come to dominate our lives, is driving economies, yet also endangering the future of our planet. This module asks
questions about consumption from multiple perspectives, such as how did consumption assume its prominent place, how do
economists rationalise consumption, how do companies use behavioural models to craft marketing strategies, whether consumption
is good or bad for society or the individual, or whether consumers need to be protected. Participants in this module will explore how
different disciplines approach such questions and will have the opportunity to reflect on their own consumption practices and impact
on the social and physical environment.

GEM1048 International Relations of Asia
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil
This module introduces the practical roles of International Relations Theories to construct knowledge and understanding of Asian
international affairs. Students will learn how different theories illuminate different aspects of historical and contemporary events and
substantive matters in Asian international affairs from the mid-19th century to the present.

Philosophy

GEK2002 Philosophy of Art
Offered by Department of Philosophy
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
Preclusion(s): GEM2002K, PH2209. Not for students majoring in PH.
Cross-listing(s): PH2209
This module seeks to introduce students to some fundamental assumptions about art which underlie how we create, experience and
talk about art by means of examples from the various arts. To show that these assumptions emerge from cultural contexts which
shape the processes of artistic production and reception. To encourage students to reflect on how and whether theories of art fit
their experience of works we examine during lectures. The themes running through the course will be What is Art? What are the
functions of art?

GEK2009 Democracy & Education
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-5-2
Preclusion(s): Cohort 2002 & before: PH2215. Not for students majoring in PH. Cohort 2003 onwards: Nil.
This module examines the nature of democracy, education, and their relationship from a pragmatic philosophical perspective. The
class will discuss writings of philosophers as well as contemporary public discussions about education and its role in a democracy.
Students will also reflect on their own educational experience in the light of the readings, and develop a better understanding of the
aims and means of education; whether it should and how it might prepare a person for democratic participation.

GEK2027 Introduction to Indian Thought
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): SN2273, PH2204,
Cross-listing(s): SN2273, PH2204
This course is designed to survey the history of Indian philosophy both classical and modern. The course will begin with lectures on
the Rig Veda and the Upanishads. It will proceed with the presentation of the main metaphysical and epistemological doctrines of
some of the major schools of classical Indian philosophy such as Vedanta, Samkhya, Nyaya, J ainism and Buddhism. The course
will conclude by considering the philosophical contributions of some of the architects of modern India such as Rammohan Ray,

Rabindrananth Tagore and Mohandas Gandhi.

GEK2028 Founders of Modern Philosophy
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
Preclusion(s): PH2206
This module looks at the beginnings of modern Western philosophy in the seventeenth century, when philosophers conceived of
themselves as breaking away from authority and tradition. It will deal with central themes from the thought of Descartes, Locke,
Berkeley, Leibniz and Spinoza; in particular, the attempt to provide foundations for knowledge and science.

GEK2029 Applied Ethics
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
This module considers some of the significant normative ethical theories in the history of moral philosophy and examines how their
principles may be applied to ethical issues of practical concern. There is a wide range of topics that are typically understood to come
under the category of applied ethics. These include ethical issues pertaining to the family, food, race relations, poverty, punishment,
conduct in war, professional conduct in general, and so on. The specific topics to be dealt with may vary from semester to semester,
and the selection will be announced at the start of the semester in which the module is offered

GEK2030 Introducti on to Conti nental Phi losophy
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): EU2214, PH2212
Cross-listing(s): EU2214, PH2212
An introduction to some of the main figures and movements of Continental European Philosophy. The purpose is to provide a broad
synoptic view of the Continental tradition with special attention paid to historical development.

GEK2031 Environmental Philosophy
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
This module explores the concepts of nature in different philosophical traditions, and human beings relation with nature. We will
examine environmental problems from a philosophical perspective and consider different philosophical approaches to environmental
issues of the day. The module will focus on one or more of the following issues:
(i) Environmental ethics.
(ii) Environmentalism and science.
(iii) Nature and aesthetics.

GEK2032 Computerisation and Ethics
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
This module will examine certain ethical issues that arise from the impact of computerisation on human life and society. In any given
semester, questions that are relevant to this module will be selected from the wide range of those that are confronted by computer
professionals, users, policy-makers, and generally the person on the street whose quality of life may either be enhanced or
diminished as a result of wide-scale computerisation in a local or global context. Examples of topics that may be confronted are
those pertaining to the moral obligations of the computer professional, the justification of intellectual property rights, and issues
concerning hacking.

GEK2033 Business Ethics
Modular Credits: 4

Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
This module will help students identify and think critically about the ethical dimensions of markets and business organizations
and provide tools for making informed and ethically responsible decisions relating to workplace issues. Specific topics may
include justifications for free markets and government intervention, corporate governance and economic democracy,
managerial compensation, price discrimination, hiring discrimination, employment at will, privacy and safety in the workplace,
advertising, product liability, the environment, whistle-blowing, and international business.

GEK2034 Social Philosophy and Policy
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
This module is a study of the different ways societies organize their political, economic, and other social institutions, with an
emphasis on the philosophical principles that justify (or dont) alternative social arrangements. Topics will include different systems
of social organization (capitalism, socialism, and democracy), specific policies (taxation, redistribution), and related normative
concepts and theories (feminism, individualism, collectivism, community, freedom, equality, rule of law).

GEK2035 Medical Ethics
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
This module will help students identify and think critically about the ethical dimensions of the medical profession and the provision of
medical care and provide tools for making informed and ethically responsible decisions relating to healthcare issues. Specific topics
may include the ethics of abortion, euthanasia, physician assisted suicide, physician-patient relationships, organ procurement, bio-
medical research, etc.

GEK2036 Greek Philosophy (Socrates and Plato)
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): PH3209, PH2222
Socrates and Plato stand at the source of the Western Philosophical tradition. Alfred Whitehead said that the safest general
characterisation of the European philosophical tradition is that it consists of a series of footnotes to Plato. Through a close reading
and analysis of several representative Platonic dialogues, this module introduces the student to the philosophy of Plato and
Socrates (Platos teacher and main interlocutor in his dialogues), and prepares him/her for PH 3222 on Aristotles philosophy and
the Honours seminar on Greek Thinkers. The module may include material on earlier Philosophy forming the background to
Socrates and Plato.

GEK2037 Introduction to Philosophy of Technology
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
This module looks at the philosophical problems arising from technology and its relation to nature and human values. In doing so, it
draws on a number of philosophical approaches and traditions. Among the topics to be discussed are the relation between science
and technology, the way technology has shaped our perception of nature and human experience, and the ethical challenges posed
by technological progress. Potential topics to be discussed will include the concept of risk, issues in environmental ethics, and
social-epistemological problems arising from communication technology.

GEK2038 Classical Chinese Philosophy I
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): PH2205, PH2301. The module Classical Confucianism and Daoism will be deleted as it is being replaced by the

new two-part course. This preclusion only needs to be applied for a number of years until all students who have taken PH2205
(Classical Confucianism and Daoism) have exited the system.
This is the first half of a two-part course which offers an introduction to philosophical debate in the Warring States period of
ancient China, the Classical Age of Chinese Philosophy and the seedbed from which grew all of the native currents of thought
that survived from traditional China. It will begin by considering the intellectual-historical background to the ancient philosophies
and focus primarily on the Confucius (the Analects), Mozi, Yang Zhu, Mencius and Laozi, closing with a brief introduction to
some of the later developments that will be covered more fully in Part II. The approach of the course will be both historical and
critical, and we will attempt to both situate Classical Chinese philosophical discourse in its intellectual-historical context and to
bring out its continuing relevance.

GEK2039 Chi nese Phi l osophi cal Tradi tions I
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4

This is the first half of a two-part course on Chinese Philosophy. This module surveys the philosophical discourse of the
period from early Han dynasty up to the close of the Tang dynasty. We begin by considering the philosophical
developments in Confucianism and Xuan Xue thought. Then, we turn to the arrival of Buddhism in China and survey the
transformations in Chinese Buddhist philosophy through the Tang. We will treat these thinkers and their ideas in their
proper historical contexts and evaluate their philosophies critically. We will also address and assess the relevance of these
ideas to contemporary philosophical debates.

GEK2040 Philosophy and Film
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-2-1-4
Philosophy and Film means, in part, philosophy of film, in part, philosophy in film. Philosophy of film is a sub-branch of aesthetics;
many questions and puzzles about the nature and value of art have filmic analogues. (Platos parable of the cave is, in effect, the
worlds first philosophy of film.) Philosophy in film concerns films that may be said to express abstract ideas, even arguments.
(Certain films may even be thought-experiments, in effect.) Questions: are philosophical films good films? Are they good
philosophy? The module is intended for majors but - film being a popular medium - will predictably appeal to non-majors as well.
(This module is offered as a special topic only.)

GEK2041 Science Fiction and Philosophy
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
This module considers science fiction as a mode of philosophical inquiry. Science fiction stories are used to examine fundamental
questions of metaphysics, epistemology and ethics. Topics include the nature of time, space, religion, nature, mind, and the future.
Specific topics may include such issues as genetic enhancement, environmental ethics, and implications of encounters with non-
human life forms.
Sub-area(s): Metaphysics, Epistemology, Mind, Language

GEK2046 Philosophies of Zen (Chan) Buddhism
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
This module will cover the development of philosophy and anti-philosophy in the Chan and Zen Buddhist traditions of China and
J apan, including their basis in the doctrines of Emptiness, Mind-Only, and of Buddha-nature.

GEK2048 Effective Reasoning
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7

What is good reasoning? We will try to answer this question by studying the mechanics of reasoning. Students will learn what an
argument is, what the difference between validity and soundness is, and what it means to say that an argument is valid in virtue of
its form. They will also be introduced to various strategies and pitfalls in reasoning. In addition, to hone their analytical skills,
students will be given argumentsdrawn from philosophy and other areasto unpack and evaluate. It is hoped that in the process
of learning what counts as good reasoning, one will become a better reasoner.

GEM1004 Reason and Persuasion
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-1-6
Preclusion(s): PH1101E, PH1102. Not for students majoring in PH.
We focus on two major philosophers: Plato and Descartes. We also look at two problem areas: science and ethics. Our subtitle -
reason and persuasion - indicates a thread that runs throughout, tying the bits together. We begin and end with a question: is it
wrong to short-circuit peoples capacity to reason by means of clever persuasion techniques? (In other words: is advertising
immoral?) The rest of the semester is devoted to the nature of the thing it may or may not be wrong to short-circuit. We will ask how
and why it is possible for human beings to reason about the world, i.e. do science.

GEM1004FC Reason and Persuasion
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-1-0-2-4
Preclusion(s): PH1101E, GEM1004
For the first six weeks, students read three dialogues by the ancient Greek philosopher, Plato: Euthyphro, Meno, and Republic,
Book I. These readings touch on a wide range of topics: mind and morals; politics and psychology; metaphysics and science. For
the second six weeks, students will meet with the same problems, ideas and arguments, but as they manifest in the writings of
various contemporary figures philosophers and non-philosophers: psychologists, political scientists, public policy experts.

Reason and Persuasion is a generic title. But it indicates a specific concern. Reason without persuasion is useless; persuasion
without reason is dangerous. Plato worried about this; so will we.

GEM2002 Great Thinkers: China, India & Europe
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
Preclusion(s): Nil
The module is designed to acquaint students with the ideas of great thinkers drawn from the three philosophical traditions of China,
India and Europe. Major topics to be covered are Virtue Ethics in the Confucian tradition, covering thinkers like Confucius and
Mencius; Metaphysics, concerning the nature of reality, covering thinkers like Sankara and Nagarjuna; Epistemology, the Idealism of
Berkeley. This is an introductory course open to students from all Faculties who wish to gain some basic philosophical knowledge.
Students who intend to major in Philosophy are required though to take PH1101E as their introductory course.

GEM2006 Logic
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
Preclusion(s): GEM2006, CS3234 and MA4207. Not for students majoring in PH.
An introduction to the fundamentals of logic: the study of reasoning. Although logical reasoning is a characteristically human
endeavour, a reflective grasp of fundamental logical concepts will take a students ability to reason a clear level higher. By the end of
the module, students will have a firm handle on the general process of logical reasoning, various well-established methods of
reasoning, various common pitfalls of reasoning, and how to critically assess pieces of reasoning they may encounter in everyday
life or in an academic setting.

GEM2025 Introduction to Philosophy of Science
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7

An introduction to a spectrum of philosophical issues concerning modern science. These range from explaining the development of
science, including a comparison with traditional approaches, to understanding nature in both the West and the East, to problems of
the rationality of science. This will also involve a historical study of the development of philosophy of science in the Western
tradition, from Bacon and Hume, through Mill, to Popper, Kuhn and Feyerabend.

Political Science

GEK1003 Introduction to Politics
Offered by Department of Political Science
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): PS1101, GEM1003K, PS1101E. Not for students majoring in PS.
Cross-listing(s): PS1101E
The purpose of this module is to impart a preliminary overview of political science and its sub-fields so that students have a basic
orientation of the discipline. It briefly explains the scope and components of each of the four sub-fields (political theory, comparative
politics, international relations and public administration) and familiarises students with the major issues and arguments related to
power, justice, political culture, national identity, accountability, ethics, and world order. It also focuses on key political institutions.
The module will be of interest to students across the university who want to gain a basic understanding of politics.

GEK2003 Government and Politics of Singapore
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): PS1102, GEM2003K, SS2209PS, PS2101B, SSA2209, PS2101, PS2249. Not for students majoring in PS.
Cross-listing(s): PS2249, SSA2209.
This course examines a number of areas in Singapores domestic politics with the following objectives: identify the key determinants
of Singapores politics; understand the key structural-functional aspects of Singapores domestic politics; examine the extent to
which nation building has taken place in Singapore; and analyse the key challenges facing Singapore and its future as far as
domestic politics is concerned. The course examines both the structural-functional aspects of domestic politics as well as issues
related to nation building, state-society relations and the likely nature of future developments and challenges.

GEK2010 Foreign Policy and Diplomacy
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): PS2209, GEM2010K, PS2209B, PS2239. Not for students majoring in PS.
Cross-listing(s): PS2239
This exciting field of study provides an understanding of the foreign policy processes and behaviour of actors in world politics.
These actors are largely but not exclusively, the nation states. The module deals with various concepts, frameworks and
approaches to the study of foreign policy and diplomacy. It explains both the external and internal determinants shaping
foreign policies of different states. It also focuses on foreign policy implementation by analysing the role of diplomacy,
economic statecraft and the use of military force. The module is meant for students who want to understand how states
conduct their external relations.

GEK2012 Public Administration in Asia
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): PS2206, GEM2012K, PS2211B, PS2241. Not for students majoring in PS.
The module briefly covers the origins, functions, and contexts of public administration, and various comparative approaches to
administrative systems in Asian countries. On that foundation, it then focuses on some of the major administrative issues in Asian
countries, including local government and decentralisation, privatisation and public sector reform, ethnic representation, bureaucratic
corruption, and administrative accountability. The module can be read by year one to three students across all faculties at NUS.

GEK2024 Political Ideologies
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5

Preclusion(s): EU3208, PS2203B, PS3210, PS2233
This module begins with the examination of various strands of liberalism, including liberal versions of communitarianism, and then
proceeds on that basis to survey various significant reactions to liberalism. In addition to communism and fascism, the module will
also examine the ideological challenges to liberalism from radical/militant Islamism and the advocates of so-called Asian values.
This is an introductory module and is designed for any beginning student with an interest in the theoretical approach to the study of
competing political belief systems.

GEK2025 Politics of the Middle East
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): PS2255
This module provides a comparative overview of politics in the Middle East, giving particular attention to the history, societies, and
cultures of the region. It considers some of the forces shaping its politics and discusses, selectively, major issues and challenges
facing states in the Middle East today.

GEK2043 Politics on Screen
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
The module examines representations of politics in film and television and considers the ways in which they become politically
controversial as objects of regulation and censorship, economic commodities or projections of cultural soft power. It also considers
the reflexive potential of film and television to comment their socio-political role as well as on their own representation of politics. The
module explores these themes in a variety of cinematic and televisual ways of representing politics, including documentaries,
dramas, historical re-enactments, and comedies.

GEK3005 Politics and the Visual
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
This module explores the many forms of relationship between politics and visual culture. From the ancient world to the present,
politics, whether formal or popular, has had a visual dimension. Politicians have been concerned to control their appearance; various
media (from painting to theatre to television to the internet) have been used to both serve and defeat this goal. The module offers
surveys the relationship between politics and visual culture, and allows students to engage with contemporary issues surrounding
politics, film, and digital culture.

GEK3006 Human Rights in International Pol i ti cs
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
This is a module that examines theories of human rights since 1945, and the practice of promoting or rejecting these ideas as
universal goods in international relations. Students will critically examine NGO issue advocacy, western states ethical foreign
policies; and the Asian values counter-challenge. This module relates the subject of human rights to political philosophy,
international law, the UN system, morality, national interest, and values/ideology in foreign policy.

GEK3007 Politics, Music and Society
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Musics political importance was recognized long ago by theorists in both East and West. Plato, for example, wrote that when the
mode of music changes, the walls of the city tremble, and Confucians and Legalists engaged in extended controversy over the

social desirability of music. Students will be asked to read theoretical writings on music and politics by these and other thinkers
(including Rousseau, Nietzsche, and Adorno) and to consider how music has been exploited at the level of political practice for a
wide variety of purposes from promoting nationalism to articulating popular protest.
Psychology

GEK1064 Psychology in Everyday Life
Offered by Department of Psychology
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): PL1101E. Students who have read PL1101E are not allowed to read this module.
The module is designed to equip students who are not planning to major in psychology with basic literacy in the discipline. Students
will acquire basic understanding of common human experiences, such as sleep, dreams, learning, and memory from a
psychological perspective; and apply psychological knowledge to understand some of the common problematic behaviours we
encounter, such as forgetfulness, sleep problems, addiction, eating disorders, depression, and mental retardation. Students will also
learn about some of the practical issues, such as whether it is beneficial to boost ones self-esteem, whether subliminal persuasion
works, and how we could find happiness.

GEM1045 HIV/AIDS: From Microbes to Nations
Offered only to USP students
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 0-4-0-2-4
Preclusion(s): USE2307
Cross-listing(s): USE2307
In the past 30 years HIV/AIDS has gone from being an unknown disease to being one of the key issues of the 20th and 21st
centuries, killing millions and threatening entire nations and even continents. This module explores the various aspects of this
disease from the perspective of multiple academic disciplines ranging from microbiology on through psychology, sociology, art,
literature, economics, public health, geography and political science. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the various
phenomena involved from multiple perspectives so as to grasp the overall significance of HIV/AIDS in a holistic fashion.

Sociology

GEK1005 Cultures in the Contemporary World
Offered by Department of Sociology
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
This course is designed to offer all students throughout NUS an introduction to the anthropological perspective within the
social sciences. The course covers a variety of topics including globalisation and inequality, forms of exchange, the politics of
gender, ideas about sexuality and marriage, and issues of ethnicity and identity. Viewing these issues anthropologically
means putting them into a comparative and historical perspective. The course is designed to show you how to see the
connections between processes of changes at different levels-from your own life, to wider changes in Singapore and
elsewhere in the world via an anthropological perspective.

GEK1041 Understanding Globalisation
Offered by Department of Sociology
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
This module proposes to examine the processes of globalisation and seeks to provide a deeper understanding of it. The world is
globalising both culturally and economically. We need to ask whether this process is creating a single world without borders or
intensifying cultural differences between societies. By discussing various trends of the interdependent world, the course helps us
understand the various processes of globalisation. Since the processes of globalisation involve societal, cultural, technological,
political, and economic processes, we will take an interdisciplinary framework in understanding this diverse experience. The course
will specifically highlight the problems and prospects of the contemporary world.

Social Work

GEK1006 Dynamics of Interpersonal Effectiveness
Offered by Department of Social Work
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): GEK1012. Not for students majoring in Social Work.
Cross-listing(s): NilThis module discusses theoretical and applied issues related to interpersonal effectiveness. It covers important
topics that will enable students to develop excellent interpersonal skills in the areas of personal interaction, friendship, family and
work place. Interpersonal relations covering such aspects as self-awareness, others-awareness, emotional intelligence, social
cognition, and attitude formation will be discussed. Wherever needed, practical skills will be imparted to the students using
experiential learning methods.

GEK1012 Contemporary Social Issues in Singapore
Offered by Department of Social Work
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): GEK1006. Not for students majoring in Social Work.
The module challenges students to examine current and emerging social issues in Singapore. Due to complex social and
technological changes that societies are experiencing, human beings are forced to adapt rapidly, with negative consequences in
many instances. The social issues that arise as a result need to be understood and addressed. Students will learn to appreciate the
implications of these issues for individuals, families and communities. Some of the topics covered are child protection, juvenile
delinquency, and needs of older people. The module is mounted for the benefit of students from all faculties.

South Asian Studies Programme

GEK1035 Nations & Nationalisms in South Asia
Offered by South Asian Studies Programme
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): SN2261
This module examines the role which nationalism has played in the formation and political development of the nations and states of
South Asia. It examines nationalist forces in anti-colonial struggles, in post-colonial state formation and in contemporary political
developments. It will be of relevance to students with an interest in political developments in Asia, with particular reference to forms
of nationalism and nation-building.

GEK1048 Gandhi and Conflict Resolution: Global Legacies
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
Preclusion(s): Nil
This module will examine and critique the life and legacies of M.K. Gandhi, widely regarded as one of the icons of the twentieth
century. It will focus on his ideas on violence and conflict-resolution. Gandhi understood violence in a broad sense and saw conflict
as involving, inter alia, man versus man; man versus God; man versus Nature; man versus woman; and man versus machine. The
global significance of his ideas and work will be discussed, particularly the relevance of his methods for conflict-resolution and
consensus-building. Using case-studies, it will critique his legacies and examine how they continue to influence many social,
political, and environmental movements around the world.

GEM1913 Beasts, People and Wild Environments in South Asia
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Nil
How do ideas about big beasts and the wild inform our socio-cultural worldview? In other words, what is a tiger when it is not just a
zoo animal but one that lives in a forest next to your home? In this introductory and interdisciplinary course to conservation and the
environment, we will watch films and discuss novels and ethnographies focusing on human/animal relations in six different spheres:

Mountains, Deserts, Rivers, Plains, Forests and Sea. The course aims to be an informative, provocative and fun introduction to an
exciting and relatively new field of scholarship.

Southeast Asian Studies

GEK1008 Southeast Asia: A Changing Region
Offered by Department of Southeast Asian Studies
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Preclusion(s): SE1101E, SSA1202, SS1203SE and GEM1008K. Not for students majoring, or intend to major in SE.
Cross-listing(s): SE1101E, SSA1202
Southeast Asia has been described as one of the crossroads of the world a place where people from many cultural, ethnic
and religious backgrounds meet. The intermingling of people, the exchange of ideas and international commerce have been
part of Southeast Asian life for centuries. This module surveys the broad currents of conflict, change and continuity across the
region from a multidisciplinary perspective. It looks at how Southeast Asian societies and political systems have changed over
time in response to the pressures of ecology, colonialism, nationalism, urbanisation and globalisation. The module also looks
at the way ethnic, religious, national and regional identities have been constructed, used and altered over time. The overall
objective is to provide students with an introduction to different ways of exploring Southeast Asia and different experiences of
living in the region.

GEK1045 Introduction to World Religions
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
Preclusion(s): Nil
This course offers an introductory survey of major religious traditions of the world, with specific focus on Hinduism, Buddhism,
Confucianism, Daoism, J udaism, Christianity, and Islam. We will examine the historical development of each tradition, along with its
sacred texts, basic philosophical ideas, patterns of ritual and worship, and specialized institutions. Our goal is to provide an objective
understanding of each faith tradition on its own terms, and secondarily, to explore how religion is relevant to contemporary social,
political and cultural issues. This is an introductory course which presumes no prior expertise in religious studies.

GEK1056 The Visual Image Around the World
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Preclusion(s): Nil
What is the power of artistic images? How do images express ideas and feelings? How are images controlled and used to control or
influence people in different societies? How do images become sacred or lose their sacred potential? How do images function in
rituals? The module explores the ways visual images are produced, used, exploited, and transformed in different societies. The
class attempts to answer some of these questions through looking at the social life of visual images across cultures and time periods.

GEK1057 Money: Diverse Perspectives
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Preclusion(s): Nil
Money can exist in different forms and serve a range of purposes. Equally diverse are the views that people hold about money
and the role it plays in the economy, in politics and in society. This module explores some of this diversity, with the aim of
introducing different cultural and historical perspectives on money, developing understanding of the functions of money in
modern economies, and examining some recurring debates about money and how it should be managed.

School Of Business

Human Resource Management Unit

GEK1013 Rethinking Technology, Organisations & People
Offered by Human Resource Management Unit
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3(sectional)-0-0-4-3
Mode of Teaching: The course will be taught interactively using the sectional teaching format 3 hours per week. Cases, field
studies, student-led discussions, and multi-media resources will be used to facilitate the learning process
Preclusion(s): Students who have passed or are reading HR2002

Objectives: To enable students to:
(i) understand the major changes that are taking place in the global environment today and how these changes impact
organisations and people;
(ii) reassess the effectiveness of organisational and business models, systems, processes and practices in the light of these major
changes and establish alternatives that are effective in todays environment;
(iii) examine the impact of these changes on learning, people relations, work and career at the organisational and individual levels.
List of topics:
(i) Rethinking the World
(ii) Rethinking Organisations, Technology and Competition
(iii) Rethinking Learning
(iv) Rethinking People
(v) Rethinking Work & Career

GEK1014 Understanding Emotions in Interactive Processes
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3 (sectional) -0-0-4-3
Preclusion(s): Students who have passed or are reading HR2002

The module would enable students to:
(i) appreciate the conceptual frameworks for the social-scientific study of workplace emotions;
(ii) examine the role of emotions in understanding interpersonal relationships;
(iii) understand the dynamics involved in the development of trusting relationships; and
(iv) investigate and discuss the role of empathy in pro-social behaviour.
The major topics to be covered would include: organisational changes and employment relationships in the networked society;
theory, concepts and developments in the field of emotion research; understanding emotions in organisations; trust and empathy.

GEK1020 Ethics at Work: Rhyme, Reason and Reality
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3 (sectional)-0-0-2.5-4.5
Prerequisite(s): Students should have completed 2 semesters of study in NUS, unless they have previously attended a tertiary
course of education elsewhere.
Preclusion(s): Those who have taken BH3314 will be precluded from taking this module.

This module is designed for students wishing to understand the ethical and existential aspects of work. Key issues such as
individual moral responsibility and attribution of corporate social responsibility will be examined from different perspectives. At the
end of the module, students are expected to be able:
(i) to recognise ethical challenges posed by the interplay of socio-economic and micro-political forces in the workplace;
(ii) to identify the assumptions and dominant values underlying ethically questionable policies and practices within the contexts in
which they arise;
(iii) to question, logically argue, and coherently defend their own understanding of ethics with confidence.

GEK1029 Managing Change: Power and Paradox
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3 (sectional)-0-0-4-3

Preclusion(s): MN03313A - Managing Change Processes

The ubiquitous scale of change taking place in organisations today suggests a need to manage the change process in a smoothly
functioning way. Yet, the change process is fraught with perils and paradoxes, the resolution of which is oftentimes uncertain and
elusive. This module offers a look at the change process from several angles, and attempts to elucidate the paradoxes informing the
dynamics of change that is in keeping with the complex and ambiguous nature of organisational renewal.

GEK1030 Service Work: Winning Hearts and Minds
Modular Credits: 4
Mode of Teaching: The course will be conducted in small groups, using a sectional and discussion format. It is interactive and
students are encouraged to develop their own views and participate actively in class discussions. Cases, field studies, student-led
discussions, and multi-media resources will be used to facilitate the learning process.
Preclusion(s): Nil

This module aims to introduce students to the dynamics of service work, its impact on the recipients of service and implications for
service performance. Through analyses of the dimensions of service work, this module provides opportunities for students to gain
insights into the hearts and minds of players in the service paradigm: the customer and the service provider. The course introduces
students to concepts such as service work, service encounters, and the service providers negotiation of roles, identities, and emotions
in service performances. This course will bring students keen on careers in services closer to understanding what service work entails.

GEK1039 Understanding Careers
Modular Credits: 4
Preclusion(s): Nil

The new graduates of today will enter a world of work that is vastly different from the past, and one that is changing at a fast and
furious pace. Amidst all these rapid changes, what does a career mean to the new graduate? What are the career trends and
developments that would impact on him/her? This module aims to stimulate students thoughts on the issues, themes, and
approaches pertinent to career in the changing world of work. Topics covered include career theories, individuals and
organisations roles in career development, career capital, career creativity, alternative career forms and other career issues.

GEK2014 Exploring Cultural Diversity in ASEAN
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3 (sectional) -0-0-4-3
Mode of teaching: Small group teaching shall be the mode of instruction. Within this mode, a variety of methods including the
lecture, group discussion and presentation, scenario analysis and experiential exercises will be used. Students are encouraged to
be participative.
Preclusion(s): Students who are taking or have taken BZ3511 or BG2509A or MN04313B

This module aims to: demonstrate the complexities of culture and its influence on our orientations to life, foster an understanding of
the cultural diversity in ASEAN, and enable the development of cultural knowledge necessary for working in different cultural milieux
in ASEAN, The module emphasises a total approach to culture. The module starts off with the management of cultural diversity and
moves on to ASEAN, but the instruction of the two dimensions is linked. Major themes include:
(i) Understanding Cultural Diversity
(ii) The Role of ASEAN
(iii) Culture and Society in ASEAN and
(iv) Developing Cultural proficiency.

Management & Organisation

GEK1047 Organisational Power and Culture
Offered by Department of Management & Organisation
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-4-3

Preclusion(s): Nil

This course is for students who want to better understand the non-rational but essential aspects of work organisations: power,
politics, and culture. Topics include the influence of culture and values on behaviour and interpretations of events; culture as a tool
of management and control; politics and conflict; negotiation; and power and responsibility. Having taken the module, students
should be able to:
(i) analyse organisational life from the perspectives of culture and power and
(ii) analyse the external cultural and political pressures on organisations and the internal cultural and political forces that influence
the behaviour of organisations and employees.

Strategy and Policy

GEK1028 China In The Twenty-first-Century
Offered by Department of Strategy and Policy
Modular Credits: Nil
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil

The objective of this course is to help students understand the national condition of China, the impact of its growing economic power
on world economy, opportunities and challenges for foreign investors, and successful investment strategies. This course aims to
examine:
(i) historical and cultural perspectives,
(ii) political and legal systems,
(iii) economic system,
(iv) China and the global economy,
(v) impact of Chinas WTO membership on foreign investors,
(vi) entry modes,
(vii) successful know-how transfer;
(viii) MNCs in China; and
(ix) global expansion strategies of Chinese firms.

GEK1042 Intellectual Property in Cyberspace
Offered by Department of Strategy and Policy
Workload: 3-0-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil

Over the past two decades, the subject of Intellectual Property has grown significantly, both in terms of importance and scope.
Intellectual property is increasingly seen as the new foundation for creating wealth, especially in a knowledge-based economy. The
ability to harness and protect intellectual property is of paramount importance in the competitive market place. With advances in
computer technology and the advent of Internet, intellectual property is no longer only confined to the brick-and-mortar world but is
also found in the new world of cyberspace. The primary objective of this module is to equip students with a general understanding of
the subject of intellectual property rights and its significance as a tool for wealth creation. Next, the students are presented with
various issues related to intellectual property that have arisen largely as a result of the growing use of the Internet as a tool for
publication and distribution of information. These issues which span across areas like the law, business and public polices are both
interesting to study and explore. With the view of further broadening the students perspective in this subject matter, comparisons
are frequently made between the position in Singapore and those elsewhere in the world.

School of Computing

Computer Science

GEM1501 Problem Solving for Computing
Offered by Department of Computer Science
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-0-2-4-4
Preclusion(s): CS1305. All School of Computing students are not allowed to read it as a GEM.

The aim of the module is to teach non-specialists the problem-solving methods commonly used in the algorithms, artificial
intelligence and systems areas of computer science. Students who have completed the course should be able to recognise when it
is appropriate to apply these method and should be able to solve simple instances of the problems. Topics to be covered include
divide and conquer, dynamic programming, search problems, and coping with complexity. Students considering this course should
have some aptitude with handling abstract concepts.

Information Systems

GEK1511 Introduction to Computing
Offered by Department of Information Systems
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): CG1101, CS1010, CS1010E, CS1101, CS1101C, CS1101S, CZ1102, IT1001. All School of Computing and
Engineering students are not allowed to read this module. Students minoring in Computing with Scientific Data should register
for IT1001 as a regular module and not take GEK1511. GEK1511 will not be recognised as a GEM for students reading
Computing with Scientific Data minor.
This module aims to provide basic IT understanding for a student who has no or little knowledge of computing. It is structured
for the student who wishes to take only one computing course in his/her entire undergraduate studies or wants to equip
him/herself to take other computing modules. The module will touch on most aspects of computing and will include some
technical depth in standard introductory computing topics. Topics: The World of Computers; Number Systems and Codes;
Computer Organisation; Software/Programming; Data Storage; Input/Output; Networks; The Internet.

GEM2509 Data Quality and Fuzzy Logic
Offered by Department of Information Systems
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-3-4
Prerequisite(s): A-level Mathematics
Preclusion(s): Modules that cover logic (e.g. GEM2006, PH2110, CS1231, CS3234, MA4207, PH2214, MA1100).
This module introduces students to the concept of data quality, and its multiple sub-dimensions such as source reputation,
completeness, accuracy and timeliness. Students will learn evaluation methods, especially with the use of fuzzy logic. Students will
learn how fuzzy functions can be collected through surveys, and fuzzy averaged for an estimate of data quality. They will also
understand the Internets social setting where electronic word of mouth and recommendation agent can be utilized for data quality
estimates.

School of Design & Environment

Architecture

GEK2044 Reading Visual Images
Offered by Department of Architecture
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-2-0-0-6
Preclusion(s): Nil
Cross-listing(s): AR2224
The module introduces students to ways of looking at and discussing works of art. The focus is chiefly on painting and sculpture; the
emphasis is on analysing the composition or design of art works and in constructing meanings for them. The study of this module
enables students to acquire critical skills for interpreting and connecting with works of art. The module encourages students to read
art works in relation to a range of interests, intentions and issues; the aim here is to suggest or propose contexts or environments in
which art works are made and received. There are three sections. In the first, three topics from Asian art traditions are discussed.
There are : (i) Indian sculpture (ii) Chinese landscape painting (iii) Islamic calligraphy In the second section, ideas and movements
from the Renaissance in Italy to the end of the twentieth century in Europe, are surveyed.

GEK2045 History & Theory of Modern Architecture
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-2-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil
Cross-listing(s): AR2226
To develop a basic understanding of the major principles of contemporary architecture and urbanism from mid-nineteen century to
the present; To study the making of architectural and urban language as they have been evolved and developed within specific
social, political, cultural, technological and economic contexts; and to develop critical perspectives regarding contemporary
architectural practice, the design process, and perceptions of the built environment. Major topics to be covered: Arts and Crafts
movements, Art Nouveau, Chicago School, modernity, the avant-garde, international style, High tech, Populism, regionalism, critical
regionalism, post-modernism, deconstructivism, etc.

GEK1050 Space and Health
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-2-0-5-1
Preclusion(s): Nil
The main aim of this module is to widen the capacity for understanding the relations of space and health. Upon completion,
students will be able to recognise how space influences the well-being and efficiently define qualities and deficiencies of this
relation. They will critically evaluate real life examples and develop conceptual proposals for creative improvements. Issues like
function, form, light, noise, wayfinding, colour and symbols, environment, and many more, are discussed from architectural,
social, psychological, technical, cultural and environmental perspectives. Lectures are combined with on-site exercises and
critical enquiry on real problems.

Building

GEM1023 Living Amidst Outbreaks
Offered by Department of Building
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-5-2
Preclusion(s): Nil

The modern day evolution of infectious disease is one of microbes taking full advantage of human activities in our urban
environment, allowing them to thrive and spread among us. Major outbreaks occur from time to time, and represent natural
experiments which afford opportunities for us to learn about the microbial world. This inter-disciplinary module provides an
understanding of the science and art of living amidst outbreaks and protecting ourselves. Topics will cover natural history of
the microbial agents, health risks in our built environment, building and its impact on indoor environmental quality, and how to
live with looming health threats.

Real Estate

GEK1010 Property Management
Offered by Department of Real Estate
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Preclusion(s): Not for Real Estate students
Comments: Offered only in Special Term Part I

This module provides an overview of property management allowing students to appreciate the basic theories, concepts and
principles; gain knowledge of the wide spectrum of property management functions; as well as understand how property
management is vital in the context of advancement in information technology and changing demographic and social trends. The
major topics include: the scope and functions of property management, legislations and regulations, lease management,
maintenance management, fire safety management, facilities management, building automation systems, management information
systems, security and risk management, financial and investment management, management corporations and town councils, as
well as estate upgrading and renewal.

GEK2005 Introduction to Urban Planning
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Not for Real Estate students and first year students.
Comments: Offered only in Semester Two
This module aims to give students an understanding of the nature of urban planning, basic planning models and theories. Urban
planning will be discussed, in the context of urbanisation and globalisation, as an important force shaping the modern human
settlements. It will explore the relationship between planning and the market, and the impact of urban planning on the market-led
urban development. An in-depth study of the institutional aspect of planning will relate to Singapores planning system in which
issues of planning implementation will be elaborated. Learning objectives: Understanding nature of urban planning; understanding
urban planning processes; understanding urban planning principles. Major topics to be covered: Urbanisation and its impact; Urban
forms: organic growth of urban settlements; Utopian city/the garden city movement; The city beautiful movement/Neighbourhood;
New town; Institutional structure for planning; Concept Plan and Master Plan; Development control/planning implementation;
Planning analysis: population and transportation; Public participation in planning.

GEK2013 Real Estate Finance
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Comments: Offered in Semester Two
The main aim of this module is to equip course participants with the basic principles for real estate financial analysis. A secondary
objective is to provide course participants with an appreciation of the linkages between real estate, credit and capital markets.
Students will specifically learn the financial tools necessary for evaluating lending and borrowing decisions and apply them to real
estate investments. They will also be exposed to the institutional framework in Singapore such as the prevailing mortgage market
conditions and CPF rules. In addition, students will study the more recent innovations in the field of real estate finance and
investment.

GEM2000 Foundations of Real Estate Appraisal
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-2-0-2-4
Comments: Offered only in Semester One
The module is aimed at helping students to develop a wholesome questioning mind and attitude and a curiosity for the meaning,
extent and purpose of knowledge so as to look at appraisal problems holistically, critically and creatively. Thus, the module is meant
to be a review of the development of appraisal theory, and the methods of investigating and analysing an appraisal problem, as well
as interpretation of value-determining factors and appraisal reports. Furthermore, the module explores the quantitative/qualitative,
inductive and deductive modes of analysis underpinning real estate appraisal as well as the interpretative nature of real estate
appraisal.

Faculty of Engineering

Deans Office

GEM1505A Engineering by Design Innovations in Conservation Devices and Systems
Offered by Faculty of Engineering
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 1-0-3-3-3
Preclusion(s): Nil

The module aims to introduce both engineering and non-engineering students to the historical background, design process
and methodology involved in the design of useful consumer and industrial products, systems and services. As the historical
development of design is traced, key principles of design are highlighted. These principles are then described and discussed
in greater detail. For the application to problems, students will be working in small groups, interacting with faculty and
research staff in an active laboratory where they would be required to think critically and implement solutions to a given grand
challenge in an integrated way. The grand challenges could be everyday problems such as to design a portable kit for
making river/sea water drinkable. The final grade will be based on 100% continuous assessment involving assignments,
laboratory work and projects.

GEM1505B Engineering by Design Innovations in Electrical & Electronic Systems
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 1-0-3-3-3
Preclusion(s): Nil

This module traces the evolution of electrical & electronics systems. Students are taken through the steps required for the design
and building of simple electrical and electronic systems. The student will learn to formulate the real problem or real system
behaviour, monitor performance and develop innovative solutions. The module consists of two parts: knowledge & skills and
hands on challenges. At the beginning, themes for the challenges will be presented to all students. Students, working in small
groups, will then choose one of the themes and set upon identifying the main problem and methods of solving them. The final grade
will be based on 100% continuous assessment involving assignments, laboratory work and projects.

GEM1505C Engineering by Design Natural Forms & Conceptual Design of Structures
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 1-0-3-3-3
Preclusion(s): Nil

The main objective is to introduce students to basic concepts leading to the innovative design of structures based on observations of
natural forms, shapes and functions. The students will be able to intuitively apply basic concepts to understand and appreciate the
behaviour of these forms which will enable them, with some guidance, to model innovative conceptual designs of structures and
subsequently fabricate them as 3D model(s). Topics covered in this module include natural forms and structures, basic structural
concepts, functions, forms and strategies, requirements and how things work, forms, characteristics and performances leading to
innovative conceptual design of structures, and how designs can be translated to 3D objects. The final grade will be based on 100%
continuous assessment involving assignments, laboratory work and projects.

GEM1505D Engineering by Design Biomimetic Principles in Engineering Design
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 1-0-3-3-3
Preclusion(s): Nil

Students are given a hands-on introduction to bioengineering design and an understanding of how biomimetic principles can be
used to address engineering problems. Students will discover how nature/biology may be mimicked to provide solutions to
bioengineering problems. The course will have a large practical component as students are presented with a bioengineering design
problem and subsequently produce a solution incorporating biomimetic concepts. Novel solutions will be encouraged as students
are exposed to the design process from the concept stage through to the fabrication of a prototype. Students will work in small

groups on their design project. The final grade will be based on 100% continuous assessment involving assignments, laboratory
work and projects.

Biomedical Engineering

GEK2505 Introductory Biomedical Engineering (2 MCs Special Term GEM)
Offered by Department of Bioengineering
Modular Credits: 2
Workload: 2-1-0-4-3
Preclusion(s): For students from other departments except Department of Bioengineering, and students doing Minor in
Bioengineering.

This module is designed to provide students with background and general knowledge in bioengineering, to stir up their interests in
this multidisciplinary field. At the end of this module, the students will:
(i) have great appreciation for the breadth of studies in bioengineering;
(ii) demonstrate a basic understanding of the fundamental aspects of bioengineering;
(iii) have a focus on the area of their interests as they define their educational goals.
Major topics to be covered: tissue engineering, biomaterials, biomechanics, bioinstrumentation and medical imaging.

Civil and Environmental Engineering

GEK1522 Global Environmental Issues
Offered by Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-1-2
Preclusion(s): Nil

Environmental protection is now fundamental to the development of a sustainable global society. No longer is human influence on
the planet confined to the local environment, but now extends across political boundaries often resulting in regional or even global
impacts. As a result, governments around the world are striving to minimise waste production, protect water resources, reduce
energy consumption and improve the quality of the urban living environment. As the human global population grows exponentially
and the life-support systems of the planet continue to deteriorate, there is a growing international recognition that environmental
problems require truly global solutions. This module will focus on the issues and causes of global environmental issues including:
population growth, resource exploitation and threats to the atmosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere, and environmental & public
health perspectives. The aim of the course is to provide students with a cross-disciplinary knowledge and appreciation of the inter-
related problems and challenges of sustainable development.

Electrical & Computer Engineering

GEK1500 Inside Your Personal Computer
Offered by Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 0-4-0-2-4
Preclusion(s): All Faculty of Engineering (FoE), Computer Engineering (CEG) and School of Computing (SoC) students.

This module aims to introduce students to the basic components of a personal computer, and to help them understand the
functions, mechanisms, and interactions of these components. The topics include not only the hardware and software
components of the personal computer, but also brief introductions into how the computer interacts with the Internet, and
some of its networking and security aspects. Students will also learn about the history of the personal computer, as well as
its current and future trends. Upon completing the module, students will be well-equipped for further exploration of
computers on their own.

GEK1501 Information Technology and Us
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2.5-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): All Faculty of Engineering (FoE), Computer Engineering (CEG) and School of Computing (SoC) students.

The objective is to discuss the social impact of information technology on the public and private sectors. A contemporary history of
computers and information technology is presented to provide the context and framework. Topics include: Microelectronics,
microprocessors, multiprocessing; social impact of information technology, influence in business and the global economy, IT in the
workplace, IT in education, management, law and government, healthcare information systems: Quality healthcare, privacy and
freedom of information. Themes and case studies:
(i) The information superhighway: where does it lead to?
(ii) The World Wide Web: future possibilities.
(iii) The ecological computer: preserving the environment.
(iv) The coming millennium: myriad possibilities.

GEK1512 Understanding how the Internet Works
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-1.2-3
Preclusion(s): Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering (CPE & CEG) and School of Computing (SoC) students.

The course is aimed at examining how the Internet works from a non-technical perspective. The global Internet is ubiquitous
and will increasingly affect many aspects of our lives. It is important that we understand how it works, what its current
limitations are, and what its future looks like if we are to effectively tap its enormous potential. On completion of the course,
students will know what the Internet really is, how it can be used and why it is so exciting. They will also understand the
potential ways the Internet can change their lives. Topics range from basic communications to Internet history, TCP/IP,
Internet applications and emerging technologies. All students from the various faculties are welcomed to take this course
except those from SOC.

GEK1513 Wireless Communications Past, Present & Future
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-0-0-3.5-2
Prerequisite(s): Basic knowledge of Mathematics and Physics at the GCE O Level
Preclusion(s): Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering and School of Computing students (except EE1, CPE1, CEC1, COM1,
CEG1) and students who have read IT2001.

Telephones, fax machines, computers, and other communications devices-connected by wires to power sources and
telecommunications networks are almost ubiquitous in many industrialised countries. Anytime, anywhere, mobile multimedia
communications is close to becoming reality. This course examines how all this came about, how it works and what the future
of wireless communications holds. In this course, students will learn things like: Who were the pioneers of wireless
communications?; What were the first steps to wireless communications and what can be regarded as the major
milestones?; What is the mysterious spectrum?; What do GSM, CDMA and other acronyms stand for and what do they
really mean?; How does my handphone work?; etc. This module is suited for all non-engineering students as well as first-
year engineering students.

GEK1514 Microelectronics Revolution From Sand to Integrated Circuits (ICs)
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-0.5-0.5-1-6
Preclusion(s):. EE2021 / EE3431C

Phenomenal developments in microelectronics in the last fifty years have revolutionised many aspects of our lives, and
fostered the rapid development in many new technologies, ranging from computers to telecommunications to the internet. The
aim of this module is to give students who are not majoring in Electrical Engineering a broad, basic appreciation of
microelectronics and its impact on our lives. They will be introduced to the basic principles of semiconductors, how transistors
work and how integrated circuits are fabricated. These will be presented at a conceptual level, with the help of analogies and
models. There will also be a hands-on laboratory session in which the students will be introduced to some of the basic
processes in microelectronics fabrication.

GEM2501 Electric Energy Powering the New Millennium
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2.5-4.5
Prerequisite(s): Prerequisites of basic knowledge of mathematics and physics at the GCE O Level.

Preclusion(s): All Faculty of Engineering (FoE) and Computer Engineering (CEG) students.
Cross-Listing(s): Nil

This module aims to present an overview of the role of electrical energy in modern society in improving the standard of living and
quality of physical comfort. It deals with how the electric energy supply industry has evolved over the last two centuries, the
conventional forms of generation, the factors that influence the price the consumer pays for this commodity and the impact of
present electric energy production techniques on environmental degradation. It will also cover recent developments in alternative
greener energy resources, and the factors affecting the market penetration of such resources. Both supplier-side and consumer-
side management strategies for achieving sustainable energy growth will be reviewed. This module is suited for students majoring
in Social Sciences, School of Design and Environment, and the Faculty of Science.

GEM2502 Modes of Invention
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-2-0-3-3
Prerequisite(s): Prerequisite of basic knowledge of physics at GCE O Levels.
Preclusion(s): Nil

The aim of this module is to provide the student with a better understanding of scientific invention and discovery. It does this
primarily by using an experimental and historical approach. There will be approximately eight weeks of lectures that will involve the
student in recreating the circumstances surrounding many inventions and discoveries in the history of electricity and magnetism.
The student will carry out a home experiment of his or her choice in electricity and magnetism. The student will also carry out a case
study on an invention/inventor of his or her choice and present it in the form of a poster paper. In this course, students are
encouraged to think through the act of invention and discovery for themselves, and gain their own experience.

Mechanical Engineering

GEK1523 Innovativeness in Engineering Design
Offered by Department of Mechanical Engineering
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-1-0-0-4
Preclusion(s): Students majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Engineering is an innovative profession. This can be observed from the machinery, equipment, utensils, and products that engineers
have designed throughout the history of mankind. The aim of this module is to widen the horizons of a students understanding of
the man-made world in which he is a part of to perceive innovativeness in even the simplest commonly used products. Topics to be
covered include:
(i) Characteristics of engineering design,
(ii) History of engineering innovation
(iii) Examples of engineering innovation
(iv) Engineering design process
(v) Innovativeness in engineering design
(vi) Techniques to improve innovative thinking
(vii) Case studies.
Hands-on tutorials will also be included. The module does not involve mathematics and is therefore suitable for all non-engineering
students.

GEK1524 Living with Fluids
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-2-4
Prerequisite(s): GCE O Level in Physics or Physical Sciences
The module provides students with non-technical background an appreciation of the roles of fluid mechanics in shaping our life and
things around us. A selection of the following topics will be covered: Fluid Mechanics in
(i) Sports, buildings, infrastructures and transportations
(ii) The weather system
(iii) Flying in nature
(iv) Respiration and blood flow
(v) Drops and Bubbles and/or
(vi) Aerospace and marine propulsion

GEK1528 Automation
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-3-4

The main objective of this module is to familiarise the students in Automotive Control Theory, Sensor Technology, Robotics,
Machine Vision, Industrial Network/Data Communication and an intelligent way of putting them together for certain
application. Students will appreciate the importance of systems formed with these elements and will understand the gradual
changes that automation has brought about. Major topics to be covered in this module are:

(1) History of Automation;
(2) Robotics and Society;
(3) Automation in Factory and Process Industries;
(4) Economic aspects of Automation

GEK1546 Harnessing Patterns of Light
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-1-3-3
Preclusion(s): Students majoring in Physics are not allowed to take this module.

This module is designed for students with little background in science but have an interest in light which is all around us. It is
descriptive rather than technical. It addresses the nature of light and color and answers some questions like: how are
rainbows and mirages formed? why is the sky blue? how are the brilliant colors of a butterflys wing generated? This module
also describes how we can harness the patterns of light for useful purposes. Topics include telescopes and microscopes,
polarization and 3D movies, LEDs and lasers, cameras and photography skills.

Chemical Engineering

GEM1915FC Towards an Understanding of the Complex World
Offered by Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 1-1-0-4-4
Preclusion(s): GEM1912

What do antibiotics resistance, managing organizations, urbanization, natural resources utilization and spread of diseases have in
common? Why do systems respond the way they do? What leads to their counterintuitive behavior? Students will explore these
questions through the systems and critical thinking paradigm, taking into consideration the connections between the various physical
and social subsystems that make up our reality. Through collaborative work, students will learn to expand and curate knowledge
fragments into structured representations for larger, complex systems. By deciphering common motifs, and understanding
the effect of interdependencies between subsystems, students will develop a deeper sense of real-world phenomena.

Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine

Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies

GEM2023 Primary Health Care
Offered by Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 1-2-0-4-3
Preclusion(s): Nil
Cross-listing(s): NUR2119

This module will introduce students to primary health care from a philosophical basis and a model of service provision using the
World Health Organisation's global framework for health. Students will be able to apply health education and health promotion
models as strategies for achieving sustainable health outcomes. This module provides students with understanding and knowledge
of primary health care and community development concepts in multiple healthcare contexts.

GEM1901 Active Ageing in Singapore
Offered by Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil
Cross-listing(s): NUR1113, SSM1206

This module provides students with an opportunity to explore the unique health and wellness needs of older adults in Singapore.
Students will examine theories and concepts of ageing, normal physiologic and psychosocial changes and the biopsychosocial
issues associated with these processes. By developing an understanding of the specific needs of older adults students will be able
to promote health and wellness for this population. Ethical and legal aspects of caring for older adults are addressed.

Biochemistry

GEK1537 The Search For Life On Other Worlds
Offered by Department of Biochemistry
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-0-7
Prerequisite(s): High school education and interest in science
Preclusion(s): Nil

The module shall examine the scientific definition for life, its origins on this planet, and the possibility of finding it elsewhere in our
solar system and beyond. It will develop fundamental concepts by drawing elementary knowledge from diverse fields of science
such as Biology and Astronomy. It would give students an idea of how scientists work and think, both in isolation and in teams.
The contents shall be speckled with historical, social and philosophical ponderings to enhance the interest of students majoring
in the humanities. The module shall put forward the message that there exist some profoundly important pursuits for us humans,
both as a species and a civilisation.

Microbiology

GEK1534 Microbes Which Changed Human History
Offered by Department of Microbiology
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-2-0-1-5
Preclusion(s): All Medical, Nursing, Pharmacy, Life Science and Food Science major students are not allowed to read this GEM

The primary aim of the module is to introduce students to the nature of infectious diseases and their impact on human activities. At
the end of the module, students will be able to understand the interactions between microorganisms and humans, and the position
and role of human in the living world.

Pharmacology

GEK2501 Understanding Your Medications
Offered by Department of Pharmacology
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-0-0-0-8
Prerequisite(s): Open only to 2
nd
, 3
rd
and 4
th
year students
Preclusion(s): Medical, Dental, Pharmacy, Nursing and all 1st year students are precluded. Life Science students who have taken
LSM3211 and LSM3221 are also precluded.
How medications/drugs work to alleviate symptoms and heal illnesses continue to fascinate the population at large. This module will
introduce students in the humanities and non-biological sciences to the general principles of drug actions that underpin their
therapeutic applications. Pharmacology consists of two major areas: pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. The former studies
the actions of the drug in the body, and the latter the handling of the drug by various body processes. In dealing with the therapeutic
applications of drug actions, examples of commonly used drugs (over-the-counter and prescription) for specific disease states will
be discussed, and their possible side-effects highlighted. Knowing drug names is part of this module.

Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music

GEM1029 Patrons of the Arts
Offered by Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 0-2-0-4-4
Preclusion(s): Nil
Cross-listing(s): MUL2102

A historical evaluation of the complex power networks - money, religion, politics, social classes, etc. - supporting the western art
tradition from early civilizations to the present. Students will evaluate the decisions of major political and religious leaders from
antiquity to the present and how their decisions effect artists and art production, and compare and contrast their influence with more
democratic, socialistic, and capitalistic support of the arts. Artists critiques of these same leaders and networks are integral to the
course. Common readings form the basis of class discussion and written exercises; this is not a lecture-based course.

GEM1030 Art and Identity
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 0-2-0-4-4
Preclusion(s): Nil

An interdisciplinary examination of the role artists play in identity discourses from antiquity to the present with emphasis on the 19
th

and 20
th
centuries. The course begins with an introduction to identity theory, and then explores concepts of human, male and
female, self, national, racial, and social identities. Common homework assignments - including readings and audio and video files -
form the basis of class discussion and written exercises; this is not a lecture-based course.

GEK1054 Music in the Global Context
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-0-2-3-3
Preclusion(s): Nil

This module provides a cross-cultural introduction to music both as an art and as a human, socio-cultural phenomenon. Through
lectures, reading and listening assignments, and actually playing different styles of music, students will learn how music works, why
people listen to and make music, what its roles are in a society, and how these things vary in different cultures. The module
introduces a variety of musical styles and cultures that represent an enormous wealth of human experience. At the end of the course
the students will have access to a much wider variety of music to listen to, participate in, enjoy, and understand.

GEM2021 Science and Tech as Artistic Innovators
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 0-2-0-4-4
Preclusion(s): Nil

A chronological survey from antiquity to the present of innovations, inventions, and scientific movements that have significantly
influenced western artists and art movements. Representative areas of study include philosophy, painting, architecture, geometry,
anatomical studies, music instrument inventors, inventions of the printing press and sound recordings, and the physics vs.
metaphysics debate. Common homework assignments - including readings and audio and video files - form the basis of class
discussion and written exercises; this is not a lecture-based course.

GEM2022 The Art of Rituals and Recreation
Modular credits: 4 MCs
Workload: 0-2-0-4-4
Preclusion(s): Nil

An interdisciplinary examination of the arts in western recreational practices and religious, political, and social rituals. Areas of study
such as storytelling, theatre, reading, festivals, weddings, concerts, coronations, dancing, hymn singing, and so forth will comprise
the course. Critical comparison of past and present cultures is integral to the course. Common homework assignments - including
readings and audio and video files - form the basis of class discussion and written exercises; this is not a lecture-based course.

Faculty of Science

Deans Office

GEM2503 Thinking Science on Computer

Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-0-3-2-4
Preclusion(s): Nil

The aim of this module is to help students understand how nature works by exploring simple computer models. Examples from
predator-prey systems, vehicular traffic, fire-fly flash synchronisation, ant colonies, earthquakes, DLA, disease spreading, and
social-economic systems are used to illustrate the emergence of complexity in self-organising systems. The module will help
students to appreciate how computer modelling provides a unique way of thinking about science of complex systems.

Biological Sciences

GEK1502 Food: Security and Safety
Offered by Department of Biological Sciences
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-5
Preclusion(s): Not for Life Sciences major/minor, Food Science & Technology major, and student from Bachelor of Environmental
Studies Programme

The number of chronically undernourished people in the world remains unchanged since the World Food Summit in 1996: a
total of 826 million people in both developing and industrialised countries. Moreover, as a result of the expansion of global
urban population, more food needs to be produced, moved to cities and distributed; insufficient food supply and inefficient
food distribution systems will result in higher food prices. The global demand for more food results in the globalisation of
the food supply, increasing the risk of spreading food-borne diseases across international borders. Recent stories about
tainted strawberries, infected chickens, mad cow disease, for instance, have increased public concern on the need of a
safe food supply. By the end of this course, students should be able to understand the causes and current character of
food insecurity, the essentials of food safety, factors affecting global food supply, and the effects of biotechnology on a
secure and safe food supply.

GEK1515 Environmental Biology
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 4-0-0-4-2
Preclusion(s): Not for Life Sciences majors and student reading Bachelor of Environmental Studies

The objective of this module is to provide students with an understanding of the science behind current topics in environmental
biology, their interdisciplinary nature, and how it affects modern society. Every day, we are faced with news that human
development and consumption come at a cost to the environment. There are 7 billion people living on Earth today and our demand
for resources exerts an extraordinary amount of pressure on the planet and our environment. Globally biodiversity is disappearing
through habitat destruction, overfishing and mining. Rivers, lakes and seas are polluted by sewerage and marine debris; soot and
smoke pollute the air we breathe. Singapore is geographically located in one of the most biodiversity-rich areas in the world, but
Southeast Asia is losing a large quantity of its natural resources due to anthropogenic effects. Through this module, students are
introduced to a variety of interdisciplinary topics related to environmental issues today.

GEK1527 Genes and Society
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2.5-0-0-0.5-7
Preclusion(s): Not for Life Sciences major/minor or Food Science & Technology or Pharmacy majors or Bioengineering programme
Cross-listing(s): LSM1302

The primary aim of this module is to introduce students to the modern concepts in biology and to enable them to evaluate

independently the potential benefits and risks of the biotechnological revolution, and its implications for society. The topics taught
will cover an understanding of the nature of the genetic material and the passage of information from DNA to protein, as well as the
major technologies currently used for genetic engineering. Examples of genetic engineering of micro-organisms, plants and animals
will be given in detail, and cloning will also be discussed. The students will become aware of the impact of the various genome
projects on their own lives and will also able to recognise difficulties associated with deciding which kinds of genetic engineering are
ethically and morally acceptable.

GEK1538 Plants and Society
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Life Sciences major/minor and student from Bachelor of Environmental Studies Programme

The module is designed to increase the general knowledge of non-life sciences discipline students on the diversity and human
exploitations of plants. It aims to help the students to understand the dependency of human society on the plant world and deepen
the appreciation of the roles played by plants and fungi in the progress of human civilizations. The module consists of lectures,
tutorials, video shows and group project works. The main topics include diversity of the world of plants and fungi, how plants and
fungi get their scientific names, plants and fungi as sources of food, clothing, shelter and medicines, their industrial uses, fungi that
cause human and crop diseases, and plants that protect and beautify our environment.

GEK1542 Forensic Science
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Nil

The module is designed to provide students with general knowledge of a special branch of scientific inquiry of interest to the legal system as
well as the social sciences such as archaeology. Experts from law, pharmacy, statistics, the Health Sciences Authority and the Singapore
Police Force will cover topics related to forensic science. The main topics include an introduction to the laboratory set-up of the Centre for
Forensic Science, which handles DNA profiling, testing of body fluids and blood, paternity testing and database information; death investigation
by the Centre of Forensic Medicine; handwriting analysis and questioned documents, toxicology and identification of illegal drugs.

GEM1536 Darwin and Evolution
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): GEM1902B

The world witnessed unprecedented commemorations of Charles Darwin in his bicentennary year 2009. He is remembered like no
other figure in science history. Public understanding of Darwin and evolution remains a serious problem. What most people think
they know about Darwin, his life and his famous book On the origin of species is wrong. This module, requiring no background in
biology or science history, will provide a solid background for understanding how the history of the theory of evolution actually
unfolded. The course covers the history of geology, paleaontology and biology from the 1700s to the 20
th
century. The central focus
is on the life and work of Charles Darwin (1809-1882) and how biological evolution was uncovered and accepted by the international
scientific community in the 19th century, and beyond. There are case studies on how to assess historical claims and evidence. The
final 3 or 4 lectures discuss recent developments in evolutionary biology.

Chemistry

GEK1529 Food and Health
Offered by Department of Chemistry
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-0-0-5-3
Prerequisite(s): 'A' Level Biology or LSM1301
Preclusion(s): Food Science & Technology majors; FST3203; GEM1908

This module will examine the current thinking and information regarding the importance of diet and health. It will explore traditional
and more modern views on what constitutes an adequate and healthy diet. The composition of food along with potential
contaminants of food will be examined and how an individual needs to consider their diet in relation to specific needs. The aim will

be to educate the students on the need for and the composition of a healthy diet, and how to obtain this and remain healthy during
the important years of development in early adulthood. There is now much more emphasis on the role of food in preventative
medicine and how a well-balanced diet can keep one fit and healthy. It is necessary to be aware of the composition of various foods
and how different methods of processing and cooking may affect the compositional quality of the product.

GEK1535 Our Atmosphere: A Chemical Perspective
Offered by Department of Chemistry
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-1-0-0-6
Preclusion(s): Nil

After reading this module, students will have developed a deeper knowledge and a greater appreciation of the atmosphere.
They will leave the course with a general understanding of some principles of elementary chemistry and perhaps some insight
into how science is used to guide government policy. Topics are varied, but include global warming, the ozone hole, air
pollution, the Gaia hypothesis, eco-philosophy and environmental politics. No students are excluded. Only an elementary
knowledge of science is needed.

Mathematics

GEK1505 Living With Mathematics
Offered by Department of Mathematics
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-1-0-3-3
Preclusion(s): Mathematics majors, Applied Mathematics majors, Computational Finance majors, Quantitative Finance majors,
Mathematics with Management Science majors, Physics majors, second major in Mathematics, second major in Financial
Mathematics

The objective of this course is to exhibit some simple mathematical ideas that permeate a modern society and to show how a
reasonably numerate person can use these ideas in everyday life and, in the process, gain an appreciation of the beauty and power
of mathematical ideas. This course is intuitive in approach and should help the student to develop enough confidence in confronting
many of the problems in daily life that require more than the usual amount of computing work. Topics covered are: reasoning,
counting, modular arithmetic, codes, cryptography, chances, visualising

GEK1506 Heavenl y Mathematics: Cultural Astronomy
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-1-0-3-3
Preclusion(s): Nil

The goal of this course is to study astronomy in a cultural context. We will look at questions like: How is the date of Chinese
New Year determined? Why do the Muslim and Chinese months start on different days? Will the Moon ever look like it does
on the Singapore flag? What date of the year is the earliest sunrise in Singapore? How did ancient sailors navigate? After
taking this course you will become conscious of the motion of the Sun and the Moon, and notice and question things you have
earlier taken for granted. You will appreciate mankinds struggle through the ages and throughout the world to understand the
mathematics of the heavens.

GEK1517 Mathematical Thinking
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-1-0-2-4
Preclusion(s): Nil

The objectives of this course are to introduce basic notions in mathematics and to develop thinking skills in terms of ideas and
criticism. Illustrated by simple examples and with wonderful developments, the course is especially designed to inspire students to
apply imagination and creativity in understanding mathematics. Major topics to be covered: What do we think of mathematics? Basic
models of mathematics: Definition, Theorem, Proof, Speculation, Idea-criticism (each with elementary examples). Major Facilities for
Mathematical Thinking: Human Language; Vision, Spatial Sense and Motion Sense; Logic and Deduction; Intuition, Association and
Metaphor; Stimulus Response; Process and Time. Critical Reasoning Conjectures and Refutations. Post-Critical Facets: Fact

Knowledge-Personal Use of Imagination; Connoisseurship, Conviviality, Serendipity. Selected topics on Mathematics in Information
Technology and Life Sciences. Target: Students with GCE O Level Mathematics.

GEK1531 Introduction to Cybercrime
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-0-0-4-3
Preclusion(s): Nil

The internet has become the most widely-used medium for commerce and communication as its infrastructure can be quickly and
easily set up to link to the worldwide network and access information globally. Its growth over the last few years has been
phenomenal. With these activities, countries are beginning to recognise that this new technology can not only expand the reach
and power of traditional crimes, but also breed new forms of criminal activity. On the successful completion of this module,
students should gain sufficient baseline knowledge to be able to identify, assess, and respond to a variety of cybercrime
scenarios, including industrial espionage, cyber-terrorism, communications eavesdropping, computer hacking, software viruses,
denial-of-service, destruction and modification of data, distortion and fabrication of information, forgery, control and disruption of
information. Students will also learn about countermeasures, including authentication, encryption, auditing, monitoring,
technology risk management, intrusion detection, and firewalls, and the limitations of these countermeasures. Finally, students
will examine how Singapore and international laws deal with various computer-related crimes.

GEK1544 The Mathematics of Games
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-1-0-0-6
Preclusion(s): Engineering students, Mathematics majors, Applied Mathematics majors, Computational Finance majors, Quantitative
Finance majors, second major in Mathematics, second major in Financial Mathematics, Statistics major, second major in Statistics,
Physics majors.

The course introduces and develops some of the important and beautiful mathematics needed for critical analysis of various games.
Selected real-life social games are treated in ways that bring out their mathematical creativity. Major topics covered in the course
range from predictable concepts of chances, expectation, binomial coefficients, and elementary non-zero sum and non-cooperative
game theory developed by von Neumann and Nash.

Pharmacy

GEK1507 Complementary Medicine and Health
Offered by Department of Pharmacy
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-1-0-1-4
Preclusion(s): Nil
Cross-listing(s): PR1301

The objectives of the course are to equip the students with a breadth of knowledge to have a basic understanding and
appreciation of various complementary medicines, as well as how to achieve and maintain good health. The knowledge brings
about an open mind for critical thinking and further independent learning and inquiry, to discern facts from hearsay. Life-long
learning is emphasised.
Topics include: Introduction to complementary medicine; How to achieve and maintain good health; Comparisons between
complementary and conventional medicine; Diet and diseases; Basic principles, concepts and uses of Homeopathy,
Aromatherapy, Herbal Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (including acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Herbal
Medicine). Target students: Undergraduates who are interested in complementary medicine and health.

GEK2506 Drugs and Society
Offered by Department of Pharmacy
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-1-0-1-5
Preclusion(s): Nil

The aim of this module is to impart an appreciation of the use of drugs in relation to the cultural and social environment of societies
past and present. How drugs are used today, watershed drug discoveries and their impact on society (for example contraceptives,

antibiotics, vaccines, psychopharmacological agents), the issue of illegal drug use in sports, social drugs and the pill for every ill
syndrome will be discussed. With this background, students will be better placed to critically evaluate drug-related issues and their
impact on society.

Physics

GEK1508 Einsteins Universe and Quantum Weirdness
Offered by Department of Physics
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Students majoring in Physics are not allowed to take this module
Cross-listing(s): PC1325

This module will give a gentle introduction to two of the most important developments in modern physics: relativity and quantum
theory. It would cover topics such as the concept of absolute and relative space and time, the twin paradox, black holes and
wormholes, wave-particle duality of matter, Heisenbergs uncertainty principle, Schrdingers cat, the ultimate constituents of matter,
grand unification and superstrings, and how these theories can contribute to the technology of tomorrow. It is designed for non-
physics students, and proceeds mainly by analogy and contrast with the familiar. Concepts will be emphasised, while omitting the
technical details.

GEK1509 Introduction to the Nanoworld
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Students majoring in Physics or Engineering are not allowed to take this module.

The essence of nanoscience and technology is the ability to understand and manipulate matter at the molecular level.
Structures behave differently when their dimensions are reduced to the range of between one and a few hundred nanometres
(1 nanometre =10
-9
metres). Such structures exhibit novel and much-improved mechanical, electrical, optical, chemical and
biological properties, due entirely to their nanoscopic size. The nanoworld is therefore an exciting new realm that brings
together the traditional disciplines of physics, chemistry, materials science, biology, and engineering. The aim of this module
is to familiarise students with the main issues and techniques relevant to the nanometre scale. Questions that will be
addressed include: What is the significance of the nanoscale? What measurement techniques allow us to examine such
systems? How can we fabricate objects and devices on the nanometre scale? What are examples of fascinating
nanosystems? How will nanodevices and nanomaterials change our lives in the future? This module targets students from
different faculties who are interested in acquiring some general knowledge of nanoscience and nanotechnology.

GEK1510 Great Ideas in Contemporary Physics
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4

This module aims to acquaint students with some of the great ideas in contemporary physics. Accounts will be given to show how
these ideas came about; how they have helped us to understand the mysteries of nature and how they have been developed to
transform the world as we know it today. The major topics to be covered include the quantum theory of light, particle waves, wave-
particle duality, the uncertainty principle, development of quantum mechanics, Einsteins special and general theories of relativity,
the four fundamental forces, unified theory, sub-nuclear particles, fusion and fission, big-bang cosmology, evolution of stars, black
holes, and some modern technologies based on physics such as lasers, semiconductors and superconductors. This module targets
students from all years and all disciplines except physics majors.

GEK1519 Science of Music
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Nil

This module aims to introduce students to the science of music. Topics to be covered: acoustics, sound and music; vibrations,

frequency and pitch; musical intervals and mathematical ratios; vibrating strings and musical intervals; the construction of
musical scales; J ust, Pythagorean and Equal Tempered tuning; musical instruments and their waveforms; the harmonic series;
harmonics and musical timbre; string and wind instruments; the pianoforte and its technology; the action of grand and upright
pianos; automated pianos; electronic music; the MIDI system; MIDI signals; general MIDI and MIDI sequencers; synthesis of
musical sounds; additive and subtractive synthesis; FM synthesis; digitisation and sampling; digital synthesis of waveforms;
digital music reproduction.

GEK1520 Understanding the Universe
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2.5-0.5-0-3-4

This module presents an introduction to the universe, the scientific methods for observing the universe, and evolution of ideas of the
universe. Topics covered are planets, stars, galaxies and cosmology. This module targets all interested students with a willingness
to be exposed to new ideas.

GEK1521 Physics in Life Sciences
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4

This module aims to establish the interconnectedness of knowledge between human life and activity, and basic physics. It
addresses issues such as: How is energy converted in our ecological system? How are materials transported in our bodies? How do
our eyes function? How do nerve cells transmit signals? Why and how do we need to determine the structure of proteins? How are
biomembranes formed? How are bones and teeth formed? Why do dental caries occur? How can some plants, insects and fish
survive a very severe winter? This module targets non-physics students who are interested in physics behind life sciences.

GEK1530 Life as a Complex System
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4

In this module, we will look at a range of fascinating phenomena found in biology, chemistry and physics, where the combination of
often relatively simple elements leads to unexpected and intriguing behaviours (the social amoebae dictyostelium, for example,
usually lives by itself but under certain circumstances up to 100,000 individuals can come together to form multi-cellular-like slugs
and fruiting bodies). Throughout the course, simple bead games that can be played at home will form a thread to illustrate important
concepts in an accessible fashion. Topics covered include chaos, fractals, self-organisation in biology, chemistry and physics, the
Turing machine, DNA and evolution. This module is targeted at non-physics students.

GEK1536 Computation & Machine: Ancient to Modern
Workload: 2-1-0-2-5
Preclusion(s): Nil

Why are computers so ubiquitous nowadays? What role is the computer playing in scientific query and discovery? What was it like
before the age of digital electronic computer? This module the brings us back to antiquity from ruler and compass, abacus,
mechanical calculator, all the way to modern computers. It is intriguing to see the methods of computations used in ancient
Babylonian, Greek and Roman times, and in Chinese and Arabic cultures. For the modern digital era, we discuss how the computer
does calculations, how the instructions or algorithms are given to computers, and why the binary number system is used. Finally, we
speculate the role quantum computers will play in the future.

GEK1539 A Brief History of Science
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4

Preclusion(s): Nil

Nowadays it is all too easy to take basic science laws and theories, such as evolution or Newtons law of gravitational attraction, for
granted. The impact of research breakthroughs on society at the time of their development is being forgotten, as they come to be
taken for granted. Even Science students tend to be unaware of how modern concepts arose, what their impact was at the time and
how they changed the world. This course aims to explain the history and significance of scientific developments to societies and how
perceptions of the world have changed as a result.

GEK1540 Modern Technology in Medicine and Health
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Nil

This course aims to remove the mysteries of diagnosis and treatment using the new and powerful technologies now available in
modern hospitals. The course will be an introductory one, and will explain, using a minimum of mathematics, the underlying
concepts behind magnetic resonance imaging, cancer radiation therapy, nuclear medicine, the use of lasers in surgery, the use of
anti-electrons for tumour imaging, and the latest research devoted to the potential use of nanotechnology and nanoparticles for
therapy and diagnostics. The effectiveness of these new technologies will be discussed with reference to diagnoses and cures in
many serious diseases.

GEK1547 The Art of Science, the Science of Art
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-1-6
Preclusion(s): Nil

It often seems the worlds of science and art are unrelated: Logical truth versus emotional imagination. Still, science and art have
much in common. Science has caused paradigm shifts in artistic expression and art is used for engineering design and
communication of scientific knowledge. In this module, students will be introduced to: (1) The use of materials and technology
related to architecture, sculpture, painting, photography, imaging, etc (2) The use of color, light, and perspective to create a 3-
dimensional illusion. (3) The use of technology for dating and attribution of objects of art. (4) The use of visual art for scientific
illustration and design. Knowledge of the scientific principles of various forms of visual art will be explored. The module also aims at
the development of some artistic skills for illustrations of scientific concepts and engineering designs.

GEK1548 How the Ocean Works
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 3-1-0-0-6
Preclusion(s): Nil

Seventy-one percent of Earths surface is covered by water! This has had a profound effect on how our species have progressed
and will continue to influence how our future is shaped. The recent distastrous effects of tsunamis and hurricanes, coupled with
concerns about global warming, climate change and carbon recycling have made it important to understand more about how the
oceans work on a global scale. This course will introduce students to: (1) Various phenomena/features related to the oceans, such
as tsunamis, thermohalines, tides, currents, storms, marine life and bioluminescence etc.. (2) How the oceans affect our lives (e.g.
weather, climate, sources of food, travel etc) , (3) Our attempts at understanding the workings of the oceans using exploration and
the scientific theories that have been developed over the last few decades. (4) Our attempts at controlling and exploiting the oceans
(e.g. conservation, energy, marine engineering). Students will gain an appreciation of the scientific principles involved with the
minimum of mathematics. This course will also prepare studnets to better understand the role of oceans, and provide insight into
making educated decisions regarding our vulnerable environment and our precious supply of water.

GEK2503 Remote Sensing for Earth Observation
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-2-0-0-6
Preclusion(s): Nil

Images of the earth are not only beautiful to look at but also useful for learning about the earth and its state of health. In this module,
students will be exposed to different types of images of the earth and their applications, especially in Southeast Asia. Major topics to
be covered include types of remote sensing systems, image processing and information extraction, and applications such as
global monitoring, biophysical observations, environmental management and natural hazard monitoring. This module is for students
who enjoy viewing images of the earth and want to understand such images and their uses in earth science and environmental
applications.

GEK2508 Sky and Telescopes
Workload: 3-0.5-0-3-3.5
Prequisite(s): A-Level Physics or Understanding the Universe (GEK1520/PC1322) or Einsteins Universe & Quantum Weirdness
(GEK1508/PC1325)
Preclusion(s): Nil

The objective of this module is to provide a practical introduction to the skies and optical equipment. Students will learn the
movements of celestial objects, their properties and telescopic instrumentations. In addition, there will be astronomy field trips,
observatory visits and students will learn how to read star charts, operate telescopes and take astro-photographs.

GEM1535 Clean Energy and Storage
Workload: 2.5-0.5-0-3-4
Prequisite(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): Nil

Modern civilization, which on the one hand boasts of having discovered the behaviour of subatomic particles, has also to its
credit the impending intensified energy crisis and global warming. The urgent need to address these challenges has now
become obvious. The course will acquaint students with the current global energy crisis and the role of clean energy resources
and energy storage devices in answering it. In addition to the principles of various energy processes, the course will highlight the
research done by the scientific community. Topics include: the present energy scenario, solar energy, photovoltaic converters,
nuclear energy, ocean energy, tidal energy, ocean thermal energy converters, wind energy, biomass, fuel cells, the world of
hydrogen, and Lithium ion batteries.

GEM1537 Nanotechnology-Smart Phone and Beyond
Workload: 3-1-0-2-4
Prequisite(s): Nil
Preclusion(s): Nil

This course aims to stimulate students strong interest in nanoscience and technology through elaboration of the different aspects of
nanotechnologies from policy, applications (related to everyday lives and exciting students imaginations), industry and economic
impact, career opportunities and sustainability. We start the course by examining nanotechnologies involved in making a smart
phone, and elaborate (using animation and simple macroscopic concepts which student could see/feel) the applications in areas of
Multi-functional Films, Displays (e.g. OLED), Touch Screens, Batteries, Processors, Data Storage Devices, Smart Sensors and
others.

GEM2505 Taming Chaos
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Students majoring in Physics are not allowed to take this module.

The objective of this module is to show that many natural phenomena, such as the great variety of snowflakes, the red spot on
J upiter or the shape of broccoli, can be understood by investigating simple repetitive elements that obey certain rules. For example,
even if we cannot predict it well, is it possible to understand why the weather is so complicated? The answer to this and many
similar questions shall be covered in terms comprehensible to the layman. The module will assume some basic mathematics
background, and it targets students from different faculties who are interested in acquiring some general knowledge of chaos.

GEM2507 Physical Questions in Everyday Life
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 2-1-0-3-4

Prerequisite(s): GCE O Level pass in Physics
Preclusion(s): Students majoring in Physics or Engineering are not allowed to take this module.

The main objective of the module is to excite the imagination of the students, make them aware of the many marvels of nature, and
illustrate to them the productive results of critically examining apparently mundane events of their daily life. The module starts with
questions that arise from the daily experience of students, and in the course of answering these questions, leads to an intuitive
understanding of some of the underlying laws of nature. Topics to be discussed include: What is sunlight? Why is music
harmonious? Why can one smell perfume? Why is steel strong and glass fragile? Is light a wave or particle? The module targets
students from any faculty who have a GCE O Level background in physics.

Statistics & Applied Probability

GEM2900 Understanding Uncertainty and Statistical Thinking
Offered by Department of Statistics & Applied Probability
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 4-0-0-3-3
Preclusion(s): Not for Statistics students
(Note: This GEM is jointly classified as Group B: Humanities & Social Sciences (KMI)

This module, using a minimum of mathematical and statistical prerequisites, aims to help the student make rational decisions in an
uncertain world. Uncertainty, variability and incomplete information are inherent; to a greater or lesser extend, in all disciplines. One
approach to dealing with this is through statistical and probabilistic ideas about information. The student will, throughout the module,
gain an understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of such a data-based approach, and learn how and when such an approach
is appropriate. The student will also learn practical skills in interpreting statistical information and gain the ability to critically evaluate
statistically based arguments.

GEM2901 Reporting Statistics in the Media
Offered by Department of Statistics & Applied Probability
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 4-0-0-3-3
(Note: This GEM is jointly classified as Group B: Humanities & Social Sciences (KMI)
Preclusion(s): Nil

Statistical thinking will one day be as necessary for efficient citizenship as the ability to read and write (H.G. Wells). In the
Information Age, every educated person is surrounded by statistical information of all kinds. This information comes frequently
through the media from governmental, scientific and commercial worlds. This module, using a minimum of mathematical or
statistical prerequisites, aims to make the student statistically literate in reading and understanding such information. The course will
be based on real-world case studies of issues of current importance and relevance. The students objectives in this course are as
follows:
(i) Students will learn to read, critically analyse, write and present reports on all types of quantitative information.
(ii) Students will learn the strengths and weaknesses of using quantitative information in different circumstances.
(iii) Students will do a number of case studies of current interest. They will be able to compare and contrast the statistical treatments
from different sources.

University Scholars Programme

GEM1045 HIV/AIDS: From Microbes to Nations (for USP students onl y)
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 0-4-0-2-4
Preclusion(s): USE2307
In the past 30 years HIV/AIDS has gone from being an unknown disease to being one of the key issues of the 20th and 21st
centuries, killing millions and threatening entire nations and even continents. This module explores the various aspects of this
disease from the perspective of multiple academic disciplines ranging from microbiology on through psychology, sociology, art,
literature, economics, public health, geography and political science. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the various
phenomena involved from multiple perspectives so as to grasp the overall significance of HIV/AIDS in a holistic fashion.

Centre for English Language and Communication

GEK1036 Cross-Cultural Communication and Discourse
Offered by Centre for English Language Communication
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 1-2-0-3-4
Prerequisite(s): Students who are required to take ES1000 must pass it in order to take this GEM, whereas those not required to
take ES1000 are free to take it.
Preclusion(s): Nil

This module examines patterns of communication and discourse in different cultures and languages to make students aware of
differences which could have an impact on communication between members of different cultures. It provides access to a range of
examples of communication involving different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and shows some ways in which linguistic
scholarship can lead to a better understanding of the differences and of the ways in which they affect human behaviour. Major topics
to be covered in the module include various communication systems, cultural systems, and communication situations. This course is
open to undergraduate students from all faculties in NUS.

GEM1008 Evaluating Academic Arguments
Offered by Centre for English Language Communication
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 1-2-0-4-3
Prerequisite(s): Students who are required to take ES1000 and English for Academic Purposes must pass the respective module(s)
Preclusion(s): Philosophy majors and minors.

This module introduces students to some basic concepts in informal logic to help them apply these arguments in academic writing,
so that they will be better able to evaluate as well as write critical and logical responses to materials read in various disciplines,
ranging from the social sciences to engineering and the sciences.

SAW SWEE HOCK SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH

GEK1900 Public Health in Action
Offered by Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health
Modular Credits: 4
Workload: 0-3-0-3-4
Preclusion(s): Nil

Public health is in the news every day, from schools closing due to hand, foot and mouth disease to the banning of trans-fats in an
entire city. But what is public health? Whereas doctors treat individual patients, public health is about the health of a whole
population. Despite its importance, public health seems obscure and mysterious. This module uses a population-based perspective
to understand the broad forces behind development of disease and ill-health. Employing the evidence-based framework, expert
lecturers will share experiences, discuss current issues and debate ethical dilemmas from cancer to pandemics, from AIDS to
diabetes, from diet to disasters.

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