230011 Language contact and language teaching (BS) (WiSe 2018/2019)

In this course we assume that language teaching is inextricably tied up with culture. Learning an additional language implies exposure to the culture(s) of its speakers. However, language learners may already have formed their own opinions of the target language based on their rapport with speakers of the language and the discourse or images circulating about their culture. In formal settings, language trainers may continually be required to debunk certain attitudes in the classroom. They must also bear in mind that foreign and second language learning requires that learners define their relationship with and attitudes towards the languages in their natural and digital environments.
The course will address some of these issues. We will describe and analyse the concepts, principles and practices related to teaching culture in the foreign or second language classroom in multilingual contexts. The participants will engage in activities allowing them to determine what is meant by “culture”, and “intercultural competence” and how we go about developing intercultural awareness. We will also address the impact of digital technologies on acquiring intercultural competence.

Assessment will include but not be limited to:
20% - regular attendance
30% - active participation in class (asking questions based on course content, analyses of texts assigned)
50% - Assignment (ex. short presentation during the seminar)