Topic: as listed in the proposal, about Hainan in China. (Use the readings I give in the folder and include the theories in the lecture ppt*** Must) Also, read the instructions of the professor clearly.
Word count: 4500.
Citation format: APA6
Aim: Students are expected to choose a topic from the context of the course, if possible, relate this topic to empirical studies in East Asian economies. Students should aim to conduct a comparative study. This could be an investigation of an industry in two countries or two regions. For instance, a study of the differences in the organization of regional innovation conditions; or a study comparing specific aspects of two innovation systems. Often the rule is: the more specific the research question, the better.
Student should start thinking about research topic as early in the semester as possible and discuss your initial thoughts with me. If your desired topic is covered late in the semester, you may need to “read ahead” in the syllabus to get started. To help structure and pace your work and get timely feedback, you are required to submit intermediate work-in-progress products as outlined below:
Each student must prepare a 15-20 pages manuscript (including tables, figures, references, etc.). The research paper represents an “integrative inquiry-based learning experience”. As such, it is expected that students will link findings in their conclusions to broader discussions in the course.
Evaluation criteria for written assignments:
1. Clarity in writing and referencing. The paper is expected to be free of spelling and grammatical errors. A recognized referencing style must be used in a consistent manner; references are always to be cited accurately in the paper. If references appear in the body of the paper but not in the “references cited” list and vice versa, this will negatively impact the grade.
2. Clarity and logic in structure. The paper should be written in a coherent, logical manner. The logic of the structure is determined by the goal, which is to test a hypothesis, answer a research question or defend a thesis statement.
3. Precision and accuracy. Precision means saying exactly and specifically what you mean, avoiding vague generalities. Accuracy refers to absence of major factual errors.
Analysis. Student papers are expected to demonstrate originality in thought and to summarize and assess information in a critical, objective manner. They should demonstrate good comprehension of key course concepts which they are making use of and engagement with the academic literature on the subject. The term paper will be evaluated on the defensibility of the analysis in terms of the use of evidence and logical coherence.
