- Docente: Anthony Dion Mitzel
- Credits: 5
- SSD: L-LIN/12
- Language: English
- Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures
- Campus: Forli
- Corso: First cycle degree programme (L) in Intercultural and Linguistic Mediation (cod. 8059)
Learning outcomes
Students will be able to understand and produce a wide range of written texts and converse on issues, spontaneously and fluently in English. They will also gain an understanding both diachronically and synchronically of how humor is used in discourse ranging from the culture of the United States of America, politics, taboo subject matter, and human nature as well as existence.
Course contents
Language and Culture
The Language and Culture module will focus on Contemporary Issues in Humor Studies and the United States with regards to:
- Memes and their effect on communication
- US political discourse
- Theories and history of Humor
- Stand-up Comedy
The course consists of 2 weekly lessons spread over 10 weeks during the first semester.
Readings/Bibliography
A specific bibliography will be provided during the course.
Teaching methods
The course will blend theory and praxis therefore one class a week will be dedicated to traditional lectures on past and current theortical concepts while the second class will be a more practical, "hands on" approach utilizing audiovisuals and group work with open class discussions/debates.
Assessment methods
Throughout the course students will be asked to write short essays (500 words each) as well as share image macros (internet memes) relevant to material discussed in class.
The end of semester Language and Culture exam comprises a written (50%) and oral (50%) test.
Students are required to attend a minimun of 70% of total classes while those unable to attend due to Erasmus/study abroad must contact Prof. Mitzel ahead of time and keep up to date with material shared on the course's IOL page if they intend to sit the L&C exam in the following semester.
Teaching tools
Course specific PPT presentations, documentaries, websites, and social media applications. Assignments and activities will be carried out both in class and at home with a focus on enriching students' grasp and mastering the relevance of modern digital age communication.
Most if not all printed and audiovisual material used in class, as well as resources for the specific topics tackled in class, will be made available on the IOL e-learning site. (see Readings/Bibliography)
Office hours
See the website of Anthony Dion Mitzel
SDGs
This teaching activity contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN 2030 Agenda.