MA Intercultural Communication

The course unit introduces students to the central role of memory in cultural identity and intercultural relations, and to the practice of mediation in intercultural relations. It starts with an introduction to the concept of memory. Different types of memory are discussed, as well as the important question of the relationship between memory and media, and how this connects to time and space. The second theme concerns the intersection of memory and intercultural relations. Topics covered may include: cultural myths and traditions; migration, memory and cultural adjustment; and cultural contact, conflict and memory. The third section of the course unit examines mediation, both as a specific communicative practice designed to promote conflict resolution and as an interactional role adopted by interpreters, cultural brokers and others in intercultural and multilingual encounters. Drawing on research literature and empirical studies of mediation practices, we consider different approaches to mediation, as well as some of the complexities and issues involved. 

• to introduce students to the concept of memory, and its role in identity 
• to sensitise students to complex workings of time in the relation of memory of the past with the present and future 
• to sensitise students to the sometimes powerful influence of memory, myth and traditions in all societies and cultural groups 
• to explore how issues of memory, myth and tradition create both enrichment and difficulties in contexts of migration, and in intercultural relations 
• to introduce students to mediation as a specific communicative practice designed to promote conflict resolution 

Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the three main themes of the course unit: memory, intercultural relations, and mediation. 

Demonstrate the ability to research, analyze, discuss and present theoretical issues concerning memory, intercultural relations and mediation. 

Demonstrate the ability to present a plan of an analytical assignment examining the concepts of the module in an academic presentation to peers 

Develop their own skills of intercultural awareness and sensitivity, as regards memory and its role in intercultural communication. 

Demonstrate a good awareness of their own role and positionality in interpersonal conflict situations, and of their potential role as mediators in intercultural situations. 

Demonstrate a good ability to research and process information, and to present findings of research and analysis effectively both orally and in written form. 

Assessment task:

Assignment 1: Pre-recorded poster presentation - 20%

Assignment 2: Essay - 80%

Resit assessment:

Assignment 2: Essay 

Feedback method:

Written feedback on recorded presentation.

Written feedback on Turnitin for essay.

Brown, Adam, Sodaro, Amy, Gutman, Yifat, eds. 2010. Memory and the Future: Transnational politics, Ethics and Society. Houndmills: Palgrave Macmillan. 

Erll, Astrid & Ann Rigney (eds). 2009. Mediation, Remediation and the Dynamics of Cultural Memory. Berlin & New York: Walter de Gruyter. 

Kramsch, Claire. 2020. Language as Symbolic Power. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. 

Roberts, Marian. 2007. Developing the Craft of Mediation: Reflections on Theory and Practice. London & Philadelphia: Jessica Kingsley. 

Ritivoi, Andreea Deciu. 2002. Yesterday’s Self: Nostalgia and the Immigrant Identity. Rowman & Littlefield. 

Rothberg, Michael. 2009. Multidirectional Memory. Stanford: Stanford University Press. 

Smith, Anthony D. 1999. Myths and Memories of the Nation. Oxford: Oxford University Press. 

Tint, Barbara. 2010. History, Memory and Conflict Resolution: Research and Application. Conflict Resolution Quarterly 27(4): 369-399. 

Van Dijck, José. 2007. Mediated Memories in the Digital Age. Stanford: Stanford University Press.