Aims

To develop understanding of the socio-cultural processes underlying language use and language behaviour of the individual.
To develop understanding of key issues relating to language and communication in cross-cultural contexts.

Outline Of Syllabus

Module outline
What are ‘Culture’, ‘Communication’, ‘Language’, ‘Inter-‘ and ‘Cross-cultural Communication’?
Approaches to the Study of Cross-Cultural Communication
The Interpretation of Speech Acts
Interpersonal Politeness and Power
Cultural Knowledge and Its Relevance to Interpersonal and Intercultural Communication
Intercultural Stereotyping
Corporate Communication
Discourse in Institutional Settings
News Media and Intercultural Communication
Frameworks for the Consideration of Intercultural Communication

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures to introduce main topic areas and discuss key studies. They should be followed by student-led seminars and small group tutorials to allow critical evaluation of existing findings. Private study to enable wider reading and critical evaluation of studies.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Will give students an opportunity to reflect on the wide range of topics/issues that have been covered in the module.