Subject details

At the completion of this subject students will be able to:

  1. interpret and apply knowledge of differing varieties and styles of language within and across selected cultures and contexts
  2. evaluate pragmatic differences and similarities across a range of cultures and contexts
  3. analyse the impact of the various varieties and styles of language on communication, identity, power, and social status.
    • Culture and communication- dimensions of culture, pragmatic transfer/dissonance, accommodation theory
    • Variety in language - World Englishes
    • Language style, register and code within cultures
    • Language, identity and power
    • Directness and indirectness in language
    • Issues of face - complimenting, apologising
    • Keeping the harmony
    • Communicating across hierarchies and relationships
    • Opening and closing
    • Awkward moments and fuzzy concepts - amae, jen, aizuichi and many more
    • Writing styles across national borders: same or different?
    • Review and exam

  • Study resources

    • Instructional methods

      • Audio/Video conferencing
      • Discussion forum/Discussion Board
      • Embedded Multimedia
      • Online Quizzes/Tests
      • Online assignment submission
      • Podcasting/Lecture capture
      • Standard Media
      • Streaming Multimedia
      • Web links

    • Online materials

      • Resources and Links
      • Online Assessment
      • Audio-Video streaming
      • Quizzes

In order to enrol in this subject, you must be accepted into one of the following degrees:

Core
  • CUR-TES-GCE-2019
Elective
  • OUA-PSU-GCE-2019
  • UNE-PRO-GCE-2019

Special requirements

No special requirements

This subject critically examines the way in which culture, context and language come together to produce different varieties of language and diverse pragmatic styles. It aims to develop transcultural competence for those working in culturally and linguistically diverse contexts.

Please Note: If it’s your first time studying a Curtin University subject you’ll need to complete their compulsory ‘Academic Integrity Program’. It only takes two hours to complete online, and provides you with vital information about studying with Curtin University. The Academic Integrity Program is compulsory, so if it’s not completed your subject grades will be withheld.

Find out more about the Academic Integrity module.

  • Exercise (30%)
  • Investigation (45%)
  • Non-Invigilated Exam (25%)

Textbook information is pending.

Related degrees

postgraduate CUR-TES-GCE-2019

Graduate Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages TESOL

postgraduate OUA-PSU-GCE-2019

Postgraduate Single Subjects

postgraduate UNE-PRO-GCE-2019

Graduate Certificate in Professional Practice