Job Discussion Forums

[naturegirl321]

I've been told that I'll have a culture class next semester. No books, no curicculum; I can do whatever I want. Culture about ASians, eskimos, Americans, whatever.

It's once a week, an hour each time, for 15 weeks.

HAs anyone taught a culture class before? I'm looking for ideas, topics, etc. Thanks so much!

[johntpartee]

Let the students do the work for you. The first time you meet, tell them all to have five questions about whatever (Native Americans, Black Americans, the US political system [I've noticed that's a VERY popular subject with foreigners]) ready for the next class. Then give them some background on each of these, e.g., blacks were "imported" from Africa, Native Americans were herded onto reservations, etc. It worked for me.

[johnslat]

Dear johnpartee,

" . . . . blacks were "imported" from Africa, Native Americans were herded onto reservations, etc. It worked for me."

And not only for you; it worked (and is still working) for all of us white imperialists.

Regards,
John

[johntpartee]

johnslat, you forgot the "irony alert"! Really, folks, he didn't mean it! Right, john?

[johnslat]

Dear johnpartee,

Huh? What is this "irony" of which you speak? Has it to do with "iron?"

Regards,
John

[johntpartee]

OK, I tried. You're on your own, pal!

[santi84]

naturegirl321,

Most of my experience is teaching Koreans in Canada (both immigrants and mothers who are just here to enjoy the ride while their children attend an English university).

Here are some topics that they were very interested in:
- Educational differences (most of them were surprised that North American mothers don't make their elementary age children study at 11pm)
- Food (why do North Americans eat cheese!?)~ this was always a great topic because they would go on forever about Korean food
- Government structure differences
- Sports (NHL, NFL, NBA, etc)
- Socialized vs private health care
- The film industry

We didn't really expand beyond Canada, but I'm sure the basics could apply to any culture.

It was a class on a tight budget with no materials, so I used a lot of newspapers, books, and sometimes I brought in a laptop. If you are teaching younger university students, the internet gives them access to the world - I'm sure they will bring up something that peaks their curiosity.

[johnslat]

Dear johnpartee,

Ah, despite the camaraderie that is often to be found on these forums, we are, all of us, always all "on our own." 'Tis the human condition.

Regards,
John

P.S. naturegirl, I apologize for these people's, - who apparently have NO conscience nor consideration - hijacking your thread

[Nozka]

Not sure how academic your class is meant to be, but intercultural communications can be fascinating and relevant to language students. I'd recommend Ting-Toomey as a good reference book at least.
I've also taught "US culture through TV and Film" before, which can be highly entertaining as well. Friends, The Simpsons, The Breakfast Club, you get the idea.

[naturegirl321]