This introductory module develops your intercultural communication skills and explores the fascinating worlds of language, linguistics, and culture. You'll investigate the origins of language, its evolution as a tool for social cooperation, and the role of myths and storytelling in fostering cohesion. Unlike other modules focusing on a specific language, this module draws from many languages to examine the intricate relationship between language and culture. It helps you build study skills, intercultural competence, and language awareness, enhancing your employability. You'll reflect on the importance of diversity and inclusivity in teams. It will also support and complement the language skills covered in our language-specific modules.
| Course facts | |
|---|---|
| About this course: | |
| Course code | L161 |
| Credits | 30 |
| OU Level | 1 |
| SCQF level | 7 |
| FHEQ level | 4 |
| Course work includes: | |
| 2 Tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) | |
| 1 Interactive computer-marked assignment (iCMA) | |
| No examination | |
| No residential school | |
The module has three blocks. Each block consists of a book and some related online activities.
In Block 1, Language and Culture, you'll learn basic concepts about the nature of language and culture, and their relationship. First, you'll explore the human need for myths and stories. Then, you'll examine how the components of language work together. Finally, the perspective broadens to show the complex relationships between language, culture, and the concept of nation.
In Block 2, Identity and Ideology, you'll examine languages and cultures in contact across different nations and communities. The units in this block explore the complex web of values and beliefs that shape individual and collective identity, holding nations and communities together. They also take a critical lens to analyse the intricate interactions between identity and ideology.
In Block 3, Communication in the Workplace, you'll develop your intercultural competence with a special focus on teamwork and leadership. Working with the materials in this block will enhance both your intercultural communication and employability skills.
Throughout the module, you'll encounter a variety of examples and be encouraged to compare them to your own experiences.
This module equips you with a solid understanding of language, helping you recognise how it works and how it's used across different contexts and purposes. It also provides a strong foundation in key cultural concepts, developing your intercultural awareness and communication skills. If you choose to continue your language studies, this module offers a critical understanding of intercultural issues that will support you throughout further study.
You'll develop core competences and skills including intercultural communicative competence, knowledge of the world, digital and information literacies, employability and professional skills, knowledge of genre and register, academic reading and listening skills, academic writing and speaking.
Employability skills developed through this module include selecting and presenting information, mediating between cultures and intercultural communication.
This is a key introductory OU level 1 module. OU level 1 modules provide core subject knowledge and study skills needed for both higher education and distance learning. No prior knowledge is required to study this module.
If you have any doubt about the suitability of the module, please speak to an adviser.
You'll be provided with a printed module book covering each block of study.
You'll also have access to a module website, which includes:
You'll get help and support from an assigned tutor throughout your module. They'll help by:
Online tutorials run throughout the module. Where possible, we'll make recordings available. While they're not compulsory, we strongly encourage you to participate.
The assessment details for this module can be found in the facts box.
The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone. The Accessibility Statement below outlines what studying this module involves. You should use this information to inform your study preparations and any discussions with us about how we can meet your needs.
Some of this module's study materials are online. Online materials are composed of pages of text with images; audio clips of up to 5 minutes and video clips of up to 6 minutes long (all with transcripts and subtitles wherever relevant to the learning material); diagrams; interactive media; and multiple-choice self-assessed quizzes. Online materials also include links to external resources, online forums and online tutorial rooms. Printed materials are provided for some module content.
This module includes online tutorials. Although not compulsory, participation in tutorials will help you consolidate your learning.
You will be required to work with other students. This includes looking at, and commenting on, others' work; reflecting on others' comments on your work; and/or working together with fellow learners on a project/task.
The study materials contain some photographs. Figure descriptions are provided for most figures when relevant to the learning material.
You may be required to search for, and make use of, third-party material online. Alternatives for required/assessed research material can be provided to enable you to meet the learning outcomes of the module.
This module has Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs).
You will receive feedback from your tutor on your submitted Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs). This will help you to reflect on your TMA performance. You should refer to it to help you prepare for your next assignment.
All University modules are structured according to a set timetable and you will need time management skills to keep your studies on track. You will be supported in developing these skills.
Exploring languages and cultures (L161) starts once a year – in October.
This page describes the module that will start in October 2025.
We expect it to start for the last time in October 2033.
This course is expected to start for the last time in October 2033.
The Chartered Institute of Marketing now recognises this module under their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme.