KVVS1010 Conflict and Intergroup Communication (5 cr)

Content

Approaching conflict through interactive and discursive perspectives, we discuss how (cultural) group membership may be evoked to incite, explain, or justify different forms of confrontation. The course thus deals with the relationship between conflict and communication, specifically intergroup and intercultural communication. Participants are introduced to theoretical viewpoints that explain the extent to which conflicts may be linked to intergroup processes. During the course, the students are encouraged to ponder concepts such as identity, banal nationalism and groupism, strategic essentialism, microaggression, and language as a conflict tool. In addition, the course includes themes such as the role of the media as well as conflict management and diplomacy.

Completion methods

Lectures, group work, individual written assignment.

Assessment details

Passing the course requires completion of all required assignments in line with stated learning outcomes. An 80% attendance requirement is applied. Grade-specific assessment criteria are introduced in the course.

After completing the course the student will be able to

• understand intergroup communication as a field of study

• understand the concepts of social identity and self-categorization in intergroup relations

• know relevant intergroup theories and processes and how they relate to conflict

• apply intergroup theories to analyzing societal conflicts and everyday interaction

• critically reflect on common conceptualisations of intergroup diversity in society.