Full of economic potential, vibrant culture, innovative minds and sought-after riches, Africa is a bright, varied and enchanting continent.
The thematic aim of this course is to look at multiple aspects of this fascinating continent. Once known by Europeans as the dark continent, Africa has changed immeasurably in a few decades and its development continues to make great strides forward, despite huge and varied challenges faced by each country. Films and ‘western’ media have often dwelt on negative stories of conflict, famine, poverty and corruption, but there are lesser-known portraits showing the resilience and innovation of Africans, their rich culture and their ambitions for the future. Among the many topics we could look at, we’ll focus on what interests you most and you are welcome to suggest other aspects.
- Perceptions of Africa – accurate portraits or ignorant prejudice?
- Diversity of people, geography, language
- Pre-colonial history, colonisation and its impacts, independence and Africa now
- Art, music and cultural life, films and literature
- The wildlife trade, conservation, tourism and the environment
- Governance, conflict, corruption, dictatorships and democracy
- Development and humanitarian projects
- Focus on particular countries and regions
- Current affairs
Language skills:
Speaking: discussions, debates and oral presentations with slides (your topic)
Oral comprehension: watching documentary and film extracts and commenting (examples: The Lost Kingdoms, Out of Africa, Blood Diamond, The Last King of Scotland, Tsotsi, Hotel Rwanda, Invictus, Darwin’s Nightmare, The Constant Gardener, The Boy who Harnessed the Wind or …open to suggestions!)
Reading: press articles and online research, as well as vocabulary acquisition
Writing: written assignments: factual or opinion pieces (choice of subjects)
There will be individual assignments, pairwork, group activities and quizzes. You will be expected to participate actively, to do preparatory work outside class (such as watching videos, reading articles and doing internet research) and to submit two short written assignments, as well as giving a presentation with a partner.
By the end of the course, you will have broadened your knowledge of the African continent and its relations with other world powers, discovered specific countries, explored issues faced by Africans and researched innovative projects.
You will have honed your ability to present and discuss complex issues such as diversity and stereotypes, geopolitical tensions and cultural differences in a sensitive, balanced way.
You will have practised all four skill areas in a lively, positive atmosphere allowing for the confident exchange of ideas, perceptions and facts.
- Profesor: Langlois Laura Hilary