GED2864

Cross-cultural curriculum and pedagogy in the global context

Dr G Tsolidis

12 points - Second semester - Distance

Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to develop an understanding of the principles of cross-cultural communication, and examine the manner in which these impact on educational practices in international educational settings; critically assess the ways in, and the extent to, which different learning styles are culturally specific, and explore how knowledge of cultural formations and learning styles might be useful in developing learning experiences; analyse the possibilities and pitfalls of the uses of new information technologies in constructing flexible pedagogies across cultural boundaries; assess the nature and effectiveness of the various support services for international students in terms of meeting both language needs as well as personal and social needs.

Synopsis Internationalisation of education has created renewed interest in the issues of cross-cultural communication. This subject helps students identify some of the principles for curriculum development and teaching in cross-cultural settings. It is structured around four modules which correspond to the four objectives of the subject. These modules will explore the ways in which learning might be said to be culturally specific and consider curriculum and pedagogic approaches appropriate for culturally diverse classrooms. The subject will also explore issues of knowledge transfer across cultural and national boundaries implied by the application of new technologies in the delivery of distance and flexible modes of education. Issues of support services for international students to meet their language and social needs will also be examined.

Assessment Essay (3000 words): 50% - Practical exercise (3000 words): 50%

Recommended texts

Watkins D and Biggs J The Chinese learner: Cultural, psychological and contextual influences ACER,1996

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