Integrates cross-cultural research and reflection into discussion of current issues in the Hispanic world. Intended for students who have had some study abroad experience in a Spanish-speaking country. Conducted in Spanish.
The primary goals of this course are as follows:
• To understand the concept of culture and intercultural communication
• To understand the different dimensions of cultural analysis
• To recognize stereotype and hyper-generalization in (one’s own and others’) cross-cultural comparison
• To construct supported and particularistic cultural descriptions
• To demonstrate critical thinking in the analysis of cultural case studies
• To develop the use of the target language and cultural knowledge necessary for a professional future
Suggested Reading: Neuliep, James. “Intercultural Communication. A Contextual Approach.” Sage.
- Revisions of Essay 1 (50%) and Essay 2 (50%) — 20%
- In-class presentation on a cultural dimension reading — 15%
- Analysis project of a cultural comparison method — 15%
- Film analysis — 15%
- Active participation in forums and class discussions — 15%
- Video with PowerPoint and narration explaining the seven cultural dimensions studied and one additional dimension — 20%
Attendance to class is mandatory and essential. Two absences without a formal excuse will result in a 5-point deduction of the final grade. Any additional absence will result in an additional 3-point deduction of the final grade. Students should arrive on time; two tardy arrivals will be counted as an absence from the course. If a student misses class, it is his/her responsibility to stay updated on the contents and homework of the course. Official absences are allowed following the Institute guidelines: “Students who are absent because of participation in approved Institute activities (such as field trips, professional conferences, and athletic events) will be permitted to make up the work missed during their absences. Approval of such activities will be granted by the Student Academic and Financial Affairs Committee of the Academic Senate, and statements of the approved absence may be obtained from the Office of the Registrar.”
Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. All work submitted must be original and properly cited. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in immediate consequences as outlined in the university's academic integrity policy.
This is a Core IMPACTS course that is part of the Arts, Humanities & Ethics area.
Core IMPACTS refers to the core curriculum, which provides students with essential knowledge in foundational academic areas. This course will help master course content, and support students’ broad academic and career goals.
This course should direct students toward a broad Orienting Question:
- How do I interpret the human experience through creative, linguistic and philosophical works?
Completion of this course should enable students to meet the following Learning Outcome:
- Students will effectively analyze and interpret the meaning, cultural significance and ethical implications of literary/philosophical texts or of works in the visual/performing arts.
Course content, activities and exercises in this course should help students develop the following Career-Ready Competencies:
- Ethical Reasoning
- Information Literacy
- Intercultural Competence