Kulttuuri-SuomiLaajuus (3 op)

Osaamistavoitteet

Learning about Finland and Finnish culture is easy. But how valuable knowledge obtained from websites is? There are facts – significant ones, but many stereotypes too. Personal touch and opinion are crucial.

This course offers you to learn about Finland with the help of websites but also see Finnish culture from the eyes of the foreigners studying or working here. They are people with different backgrounds and have come to Finland for various reasons. They will tell you what it means to live here. So, enjoy the soft encounter with the Finnish culture.

And what if you are a Finn? You can see your country and culture through the lens of outsider perception. Indeed, you will find something interesting. Probably also help to develop the course.

To sum it up - the course gives you the main characteristics of Finnish society – a brief history, way of life, economic environment and working opportunities. You will learn to identify and describe the new trends in the development of Finnish society and learn about famous Finns and their contribution to the image of Finland worldwide. Share your experience with others and learn from their experience.

Students can:
• define and identify elements in Finnish culture essential for interpersonal communication and communication in the global world
• compare and contrast one’s original cultural values, beliefs, perceptions, and communication styles with the Finnish culture
• recognise negative perceptions and avoid stereotyping
• recognise the patterns in intercultural communication when dealing with institutions and social structures in Finland.

Sisältö

• cultural challenges and interpersonal communication tips
• a brief history of Finland – how it impacts Finnish culture
• social development of Finland, trends, economics, institutions
• studying and working in Finland – authentic views from foreigners presented in the form of podcasts, videos and short stories

Suoritustavat

• individual tasks – 70%
• end term test – 30%