"College English Teaching Guidelines" position college English courses as a part of humanistic education in higher education institutions, with both instrumental and humanistic qualities. The relationship between language and culture is interdependent and mutually influencing. Professor Wang Zuoliang, a renowned foreign language educator in China, once said, "Without understanding the social and cultural aspects of a language, no one can truly master it." In the new development trend of globalization, cross-cultural communication skills are increasingly valued. Conducting in-depth cross-cultural exchange and communication is becoming an important mission and main content of talent cultivation in higher education in China.
The online course 'Society and Culture of British and American Countries' is suitable for undergraduate students majoring in English and non-English. Through the introduction and analysis of the social and cultural overview of British and American countries, such as basic cultural concepts, customs, politics and systems, family and education, etc., it comprehensively introduces cultural knowledge and gradually analyzes cultural connotations, enabling students to deepen their understanding of British and American culture, gain insight into the differences between Chinese and Western cultures, and expand their international perspective, Improve critical thinking and cross-cultural communication skills.
This course consists of 6 units, roughly arranged in order from concrete to abstract, and from explicit to implicit. Unit 1: Basic Concepts of Culture; Unit 2: Summary of British and American Culture; Unit 3: Ethnicity and Geography; Unit 4: Cultural Education; Unit 5: Culture and Government; Unit 6: Culture and Belief. Each unit is specifically divided into: Part A: Lead in (knowledge point import). Part B: Focus on UK (Key Knowledge and Understanding). Part C: Focus on US (Key Knowledge and Understanding). Part D: Hands on (Comprehensive Practical Training).
In short, through the study of this course, students can not only improve their language skills, but also deepen their understanding of British and American culture, gain insight into the cultural differences between China and the West, expand their international perspective, and improve their cross-cultural communication skills.
