Since the genetic codes and sequences of human beings and many different organisms become available, their role in biological processes and diseases become more understood and comprehensible to human beings. Possibilities of making good use of these bioinformatics knowledge and manipulation of genes have opened a brave new world for us to explore. This course in intended to introduce basic concepts of gene structures, gene functions, genetic engineering, synthetic biology and the impacts of such gene technology on our society.

This course gives an introduction to students on how to appreciate Cantonese opera. Learning to appreciate and understand the Cantonese opera and the relationship with its contexts may enhance students’ understanding of the Chinese culture and aesthetics, as well as improve students’ personal morality. Both lectures and field visits will be arranged to describe the workplace requirements and demonstrate positive value, professional attitude and work ethics through Cantonese opera activities.

This course is to introduce finance to students who may not have business or finance as their majors. The course starts with introducing opportunities in financial world that are available to students, particularly in the context of Hong Kong which is a major global financial center. It follows up with explaining the importance of integrity and credibility that are “bedrock” to finance. Fundamental concepts in finance are explained with great details. Slowly the course progresses to more specific studies on modern financial institutions and financial instruments.

Emotion (literally means “evoke motion”) energizes and directs human behavior. Emotion dysregulation, however, disrupts normal mental processes and impairs psychological functioning. This course covers the basic scientific knowledge about what emotion is, how emotion affects body and mind, how emotion dysregulation results in different emotional disorders (e.g., anxiety or mood disorders), and what one can do to manage and transform emotion into positive energy to serve adaptive purposes.

Since ancient time, human beings have been curious about and fascinating with the remote sky. This curiosity and fascination have boosted the invention of various techniques in observational astronomy and, on the other hand, the spread of mythology about constellations under cultural influences. This course introduces the mythology in both the East and the West, stimulating students to ponder on the cultural significances behind the stories. In addition, students are encouraged to practice basic techniques in observational astronomy, acquiring knowledge through experiential learning.