Learning outcome

After successfully completing the course, the candidate will have achieved the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence.

Knowledge

The candidate has:

• Basic knowledge of key concepts, perspectives and ways of thinking in cultural theory
• Knowledge of concept of culture in relation to the history of ideas and knowledge about cultural changes from the 1800s to the present day, especially in Norway
• Knowledge of key social forces and processes in modern and late modern society, and the impact of globalization on international culture
• Basic knowledge of culture as social heritage and product, and culture as values​​, attitudes and skills that shape people’s identity and meaning in the contemporary period

Skills

The candidate can:

• Understand the difference between cultural understanding and cultural analysis, ethnocentrism and cultural relativism
• Carry out simple investigations related to the observation of cultural practices in the field of culture
• Understand and recognize the causes and driving forces behind cultural changes in both past and present
• Analyse and explain the reasons for cultural differences and variations and communicate results in written and oral form

General competence

The candidate:

• Can communicate with others on academic topics of relevance in the field of culture

Course Description

The course introduces students to concepts, themes and perspectives that are fundamental for the understanding of culture. Culture is interpreted to mean the totality of socially transmitted traits and behaviour patterns, as well as those traits and behaviour patterns that are characteristic of particular human groups. The course content draws on cross-disciplinary cultural studies (the interpretative social sciences and the humanities). In particular, we examine the conceptual significance of culture within the history of ideas, and the preconditions that have determined the historical role of culture in society. Other topics include the role of social phenomena such as globalisation and new technologies in creating new cultural patterns and forms of communication. While focusing on cultural structures, values, patterns and variations, we also examine human influences on cultural formation and development. The course takes as its starting point the special characteristics of Norwegian and international cultures in both the past and present, examining topics such as Norway’s progression from nation-building to cultural diversity, and the development of subcultures spanning national and cultural divides.

Teaching and Learning Methods

Lectures, seminars and group work / response groups. The course includes compulsory written and oral exercises in groups. Written group mid-term papers; these will be based on observation of cultural practices in the field of culture.

Assessment Methods

Individual assignment of 3000-4000 words must be submitted mid-term; it will be based on an observation exercise. Assignment counts 40% of the final grade. Individual written assignment without invigilation at the end of the semester counts for 60%. Graded marks. The compulsory exercises related to the individual assignment in mid-term must receive passing marks in order to be given a final passing grade for the course.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean