Explain how language is acquired, what linguistics studies, how languages form families, and how writing evolved and changed society

Introduction to Language & Communication (HSR130)

This course covers the forms and functions of human communication and media in society. Students enrolled in the course learn the basic concepts of language, linguistics, translation, and media through an interdisciplinary perspective. It covers first and second language learning, the branches of linguistics, the relationships between languages, verbal and non-verbal communication, the nature of persuasion and the forms of translation. This course also makes students aware of the interrelationships within various disciplines in humanities and social sciences and informs them about their choice of majors.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course, students will be able to :

1. Explain how language is acquired, what linguistics studies, how languages form families, and how writing evolved and changed society
2. Recognize the components of communication, the difference between verbal and non-verbal communication, and the uses of non-verbal communication
3. Analyze interpersonal, direct interpersonal, mediated interpersonal, and cross-cultural modes of communication
4. Describe accurately the role and elements of mass communication and the classifications of mass media
5. Explain the basic translation terms, problems encountered in translation and the criteria used to evaluate the quality of a translation
6. Demonstrate good understanding of a topic of their choice related to one of the themes of the course