Learning objectives
The module aims to convey the theoretical tools necessary to critically understand the social processes active in intercultural contexts. At the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Master the key concepts of intercultural communication, understanding them in the light of different theoretical paradigms;
- critically analyze the preconditions and consequences of intercultural social interactions;
- Adopt a critical and autonomous point of view on narratives about cultural otherness.
Prerequisites
This module does not require special prerequisites.
Course unit content
The module will be divided into three moments. A first part will be dedicated to examining the foundations of intercultural communication: the key concepts (eg.: communication, culture, context, power, ...) will be observed in the light of the main interpretative paradigms. The second section will focus on the analysis of the processual aspects of intercultural communication (eg.: languages, identities, otherness, conflicts, intercultural mediation, adaptation and competence ...). The third part will be dedicated to deepening and problematizing the theoretical concepts previously illustrated, through individual and group exercises and the narration of intercultural experiences and practices that are particularly relevant in the contemporary world.
Full programme
- - -
Bibliography
The slides presented and the scientific contributions discussed during the lessons, which will be uploaded on the Elly platform, are an integral part of the teaching material. To prepare for the exam it is also necessary to read carefully and critically:
Makaping, G. (2022). Traiettorie di sguardi: e se gli altri foste voi?. Rubbettino Editore.
Faloppa, F. (2022). Sbiancare un etiope: La costruzione di un immaginario razzista. Utet Libri.
one of the following readings is also suggested (this reading is not compulsory and will not be assessed during the exam):
-Sangue giusto, di Francesca Melandri, Bompiani, 2021
-Timira. Romanzo meticcio, di Wu Ming 2 e Antar Mohamed, Einaudi, 2012
Teaching methods
Teaching activities will include:
- frontal classes, with the help of slides, aimed at exposing the main theoretical issues;
- debates, aimed at verifying ongoing learning and at fostering the critical application of the acquired knowledge;
-individual and group exercises, also conducted by external experts, aimed at stimulating a deeper internalization of the acquired knowledge and an initial awareness of one's own strengths and weaknesses in intercultural communication;
- Narration of significant intercultural experiences and practices, by experts or people involved, with the aim of putting students in contact with the concrete implications of intercultural processes, while stimulating their curiosity and cognitive and affective empathy.
The materials provided by the lecturer cannot be shared outside Unipr, unless differently agreed with the lecturer.
Assessment methods and criteria
The exam will be oral and will consist of:
-in two questions, one of a more general nature and one more specific, on the theoretical concepts presented during the course.
-You will then be asked to critically comment on a short passage taken from one of the books indicated as compulsory readings.
Students will have to demonstrate that they have learned and understood the concepts and theoretical paradigms being taught, that they know how to link them together and apply them to practice through concrete examples and that they are able to use appropriate language.
A score ranging from 1 to 10 will be assigned to each answer. Honors will be awarded if the student enriches the answers with a personal contribution and demonstrates particular mastery of the theoretical notions, strong critical skills in their application to concrete cases, and excellent skills in using the specific language of the discipline.
Other information
The lecturer is always available for clarifications on both the contents and organisation of the classes (timetable, materials to be studied, examination procedures, etc.).
Meetings between lecturer and students can be in person or online. The office hours for A.Y. 2023-2024 are normally on Monday from 4 to 6 p.m. In any case, all students are invited to email the lecturer in advance to make an appointment (in person or online). It is also possible) to make an appointment on other days and/or times if students have problems on the day and/or time of weekly office hours.
The teacher's office is located on the 4th floor, Philosophy of Law wing, next to the entrance to the Social Services wing. If the door is closed, please ring the bell.
