This module explores the ways in which communities around the world communicate, cooperate and interact with each other using the French language. In addition to examining the legacy of Empire and France's place in the world, students will investigate the complexities, tensions and ambiguities of the Francophone postcolonial world as seen from the perspective of metropolitan France (and Belgium), and from former colonies and overseas territories.
The module will typically be based around 3-4 topics, for example: Remembering the colonial past Minorities in the Francophone world French diplomacy and postcolonial relations 'Soft power' and managing the Francophone family
Students will explore key texts, audio-visual material and scholarly articles. The module will introduce students to key aspects of each topic and provide them with the opportunity to undertake short presentations on the chosen topic as well as to engage in discussion and debate on questions which remain divisive within France and the Francophone world.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Demonstrate appropriate independent research skills in collecting material on their chosen topic
Undertake analysis and evaluation of a topic studied on the module, using sources in the target language when applicable
Convey coherently and persuasively the findings of that analysis and evaluation in an essay
Demonstrate the acquisition of knowledge pertaining to the field of French and Francophone studies