APSK05134U Elective Course - Culture, Communication and Learning

Volume 2015/2016
Content

This unit will introduce key social scientific concepts and theories, which can be applied to the study of the relationship between culture, communication and learning. It will explore the complexities of the vast theory base underpinning the role of culture and communication in learning settings. Its aims are to introduce to students issues concerning (1) the role of language and culture in development, (2) language use and thinking and remembering together (3) learning as communicative action (4) identity formation. It will enable a critical assessment of the construction of problems and proposed solutions in education.

Delivery will be in the form of a weekly brief lecture followed by seminars and tutorials involving individual and/or group work and student presentations. Students are expected to arrive at sessions having done some preparation reading beforehand and prepared to give a brief summary of the pre-session reading in the seminar.

At the completion of this course students would be able to develop:

  • Awareness and understanding of issues concerning the role of social interaction in language development
  • Understanding of issues concerning culture, communication and learning in classrooms with reference to their professional experience in early educational settings, primary and secondary classrooms
  • Critical skills to evaluate research into culture, communication and learning in early educational settings and in primary and secondary classrooms.

 

Information on lecturers can be found underacademic staff.

Learning Outcome

The purpose of these modules is to expand knowledge or put the psychological subject area into perspective through theoretical or empirical specialisation within subject areas within or related to psychology.

By the end of the module, students will be able to:

  • describe and account for relevant concepts and themes within the elective subject
  • describe and account for relevant methodological approaches in relation to the subject matter for the elective subject
  • explain contexts, analyse and conduct procedures relevant to the elective subject under supervision
  • discuss themes/problems relevant to the elective subject or interpret cases/data related to the elective subject.

Syllabus

For BA students, a total of 1000 pages comprising both compulsory (700 pages) and elective literature (300 pages). For Master students an additional 200 pages elective literature.

Available mid-June

Classes 14 weeks, starts week 36
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Class Instruction
  • 28
  • Total
  • 28
Credit
10 ECTS
Type of assessment
Written assignment
Select one of the themes, theories or/and concepts introduced in the course. Present an argument with a critical review the literature on the chosen theme/concept/theory with one or two illustrative examples.
EXTENT: The paper can be written individually or in groups of 2-3 students, and it cannot exceed the following number of pages: 14 pages – 1 student; 21 pages – 2 students; 24 pages – 3 students.
COURSEWORK: In addition to the course assignment, a group presentation by students is required, although it is not marked. Students are encouraged to work in a group in order to develop a plan/an outline for the assignment.
Exam registration requirements

75 % participation is mandatory but the course is based on full participation in class.

Aid
All aids allowed
Marking scale
passed/not passed
Censorship form
No external censorship
Criteria for exam assesment

Vejledende karakterbeskrivelser

International students: If you require a grade, please inform the exam administration prior to the exam periods by sending an email with your student ID and the course name toeksamen@psy.ku.dk .