Sociology, Communication and Intercultural Understanding (TOL250)

Content

The course will initially give an introduction to the concept of society and sociological ways of thinking. Specific focus will be placed on different ways of understanding and analysing the relationship between individuals and society. The choices and actions of different groups and individuals will be of particular importance. Part two of the course deals with recent characteristics in society such as increased globalisation, mobility and migration across national borders. Both actor perspectives and structural perspectives on these social phenomena will be thematised and exemplified with relevant cases. This part of the course will also address the structural frameworks that shape flows and categories of migrants. Part three of the course focuses on the field of intercultural communication. Key themes will be the concept of culture, the concept of diversity, verbal and non-verbal communication, conflict management, the use of interpreters, stereotypes, prejudice, power, professional ethics from a multicultural perspective and intercultural competence.

The course is also based on the notion that all people have multiple identities and that increased intercultural competence is not only useful when working with minority background individuals, but is relevant to all individuals that Norwegian Customs employees meet within the framework of their work.

Learning outcome

After successfully completing the course, students will have the following learning outcomes defined in knowledge, skills and general competence:

After successfully completing the course, students will have knowledge about:

• Key concepts and theories related to globalisation, migration, culture and diversity
• The importance that age, gender, sexuality, class and ethnicity have regarding the interaction that takes place in customs work
• Different communication theories and techniques.

After successfully completing the course, students will have skills in:

• Applying different theories and perspectives related to globalisation, migration, culture and diversity in the analysis of customs issues
• Reflecting on one’s own attitudes and professional understanding of roles from a power, minority and majority perspective
• Communicating appropriately with people from different backgrounds, including in conflict situations.

After successfully completing the course, students will have general competence in:

• Relevant issues related to social science and professional ethics
• Points of views and experiences related to culture and diversity with others who have a background in customs, and through this contribute to the development of good practice
• Intercultural issues in meetings between people from different organisations, countries and cultures.

Required prerequisite knowledge

Recommended prerequisites

Exam

Coursework requirements

Coursework consists of an organised piece of group work. The group work consists of working on a case that is formulated by the lecturer. The case will be directly related to the customs field. Students must explain and discuss how they would solve the case in light of relevant theory and other knowledge they have acquired within the framework of the course and acquired practical experience. Group work is to be presented to the rest of the class.

Compulsory activities must be approved in order to take the exam.

Course teacher(s)

Course coordinator:

Head of Department:

Method of work

Open for

Course assessment

Literature