This module explores key aspects of British civilisation, including social and demographic trends, history, politics, economics, and culture. A thematic approach is taken. The topics explored will vary from one year to the next. They may include the diversity of contemporary Britain in relation to nationality, race, religion, class, and gender; relationships between the United Kingdom and other parts of the world; aspects of British culture; and the influence of British history on Britain today. Two weeks is spent on each theme, allowing for a deep dive into the topics studied.
Objectives
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
• Understand more about British politics, economics, culture and society
• Critically reflect on contemporary political, economic and social trends like the rise of inequality
• Deconstruct key concepts like national identity and British culture
• Research a topic related to British civilisation
• Write advanced analyses in English on the topics studied in class
• Speak about and deliver oral presentations on complex themes
A 2-hour weekly lecture. 12 weeks of teaching in total. Interaction and discussion are encouraged.
Assessment and Final Grade
A short oral presentation (30%) and a research-based essay (70%).
Course Requirements
Material to help prepare each lecture is made available on the learning platform. Students are expected to spend 1-2 hours per week preparing for the lecture. The assessments require an additional workload of approximately 20 hours.
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