Module SPAN1081: INTRODUCTION TO HISPANIC STUDIES

Department: Modern Language and Cultures (Spanish)

SPAN1081: INTRODUCTION TO HISPANIC STUDIES

Prerequisites

• At least Grade B in Spanish A Level or equivalent

Corequisites

• Modern European Languages, Combined Honours and all Joint and 'with' programmes: Spanish Language 1A (SPAN1011) or Spanish Language 1B (SPAN1072). Others: see Chairman/Chairwoman of the Board of Studies in MLAC or his/her representative.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To provide an introduction to the contexts within which the study of forms of cultural expression in Latin America and Spain (especially literature, film and other visual forms) will be developed in subsequent years.

Content

• Selected cultural and historical developments in the Spanish-speaking world.
• The course will be taught in English and will be available to all first-year students of Spanish.
• The syllabus will cover Spain and Latin America in equal proportions, making use of film and visual arts.
• While the course will refer to forms of literary expression, it will not involve the detailed study of literary texts.

Learning Outcomes

• An understanding of the main elements that shapre cultural identities in Latin America and Spain.
• An understanding of some of the cultural implications of historical change in Spain and LAtin America.
• Knowledge of selected examples in various media of representatives of Hispanic cultural identities.

• An ability to evaluate critically and contextualize representations and misrepresentations of the Hispanic world.
• An ability to analyse forms of visual culture.
• Coherent articulation of ideas and arguments, orally and in writing.
• Comprehension, critical analysis and selective reapplication of information from a variety of sources.
• An ability to combine organized independent study with effective group work.

• Writing skills.
• Research and time management skills.
• IT skills (word processing of assignments, use of an online learning environment, use of online sources of information).
• Understanding of cultural difference.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• There will be a weekly general lecture which will deliver key information on the module and a weekly seminar with smaller groups of students which will allow for individual presentations and active discussions.
• The commentary and summative essay are based on topics covered during the Michaelmas term.
• The examination questions cover the work carried out in the other terms and test the students' understanding of topics under controlled conditions.
• The mixture of summative essay and final examination responds to student requests for this mode of assessment.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University