Aims and Fit of Module

The module aims to equip the student with an understanding of the multidimensionality of the 

relationship between culture, language and forms of communication. It takes Chinese culture 

and Chinese language as a case study and it aims to deepen students’ understanding of crucial 

culturally-specific concepts and values and their everyday operationalisation. Students will 

learn how to analyse the interdependency of cultural and linguistic patterns and their 

relevance for the selection of communication strategies. The module aims to develop students’ ability to recognise and critically assess specific, culturally determined forms of verbal and non-verbal communication and their socio-psychological grounding. Students will learn about the structure and application of Chinese communication patterns and the cultural determinants involved. They will also learn how to apply this knowledge to enhance their awareness of cultural differences and adopt effective communication strategies.

It is open to students on both the Teaching Chinese as an International Language and Contemporary China Studies pathways. 

Learning outcomes

A. 	Describe and explain the relationship between language and culture.
B.	Identify and critically analyse determinants of Chinese interpersonal communication.
C.	Demonstrate understanding of the specific Chinese modes of communication and their application.
D.	Identify and critically assess culturally specific rhetorical devices in text and speech.
E.	Demonstrate the ability to ‘translate’ Chinese communication patterns.
F.	Use analytical skills to present arguments

Method of teaching and learning

1) Lectures providing an overview of the weekly topic:  


2) Seminars during which students will:  


a) discuss concepts and their applicability  


b) analyse the text and speech to search for language-culture entanglement 


c) learn how to apply acquired skills for better reasoning and debate 


3) Online skills support to help students to engage with module content.