Introduction to Intercultural Studies: Language and Culture

FutureLearn Introduction to Intercultural Studies: Language and Culture

Platform
FutureLearn
Provider
University of Leeds
Effort
5 hours/week
Length
2 weeks
Language
English
Credentials
Paid Certificate Available
Course Link
Overview
Examine the relationship between language, nationality and cultural identity
On this course you will analyse why language is a social construction and examine how it relates to cultural identity.

You will start by exploring what language is, how it relates to the way we think and how it is shaped by the culture it originates from. You’ll learn how language is used and explore cases of intercultural communication. You will examine the difficulties of translation and how politeness is expressed across cultures. Finally, you’ll learn about the controversial issue of language loss and examine the reasons that cause it and its implications for cultural identity.

The course is for anyone with an interest in the relationship between language and culture, you don’t need any previous experience.

This course is also ideal if you are working with languages, you are preparing to move to a different country for work or study or you work with groups of people from different cultures to yours. By completing all aspects of the course you will have achieved 14 hours of CPD time.

What topics will you cover?
  • The relationship between language, nation and cultural identity.
  • The way in which language shapes how we think.
  • The extent to which language might limit and shape what we are able to articulate and think.
  • The challenges faced by translators when trying to make concepts understandable for audiences with different cultural reference points and backgrounds.
  • How politeness is distinct to a culture, and the ways in which language is used to reinforce ideas of politeness.
  • How languages can reinforce cultural identity, and the challenges of retaining that identity in the face of language loss and endangerment.

Taught by
Bethan Davies
Author
FutureLearn
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