Unit 5. Non-formal methods for introducing culture and language

• Main ideas

The main ideas and goals of the unit are:

1. Presenting and describing non-formal education, in particular looking at it as an alternative and powerful education form to employ in language courses for migrants;
2. Introduce concepts of culture, intercultural sensitivity, cultural differences and illustrations of stereotypes, in particular considering them within the context of language education;
3. Improving the knowledge and awareness of other cultures, recognizing and analysing intercultural challenges, and fostering cooperation across cultures;
4. Introducing the main concepts of cultural communication to adapt behaviours and communication styles to a specific context;
5. Providing tools and real examples to employ non-formal education in the learning area taking into account, i.e. the introduction of the concept of culture within language education.

• Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this Learning Unit, the participants will be able to:

1. Master the concept of culture, multiculturality, intercultural sensitivity and communication, stereotypes; recognize and face cultural challenges, adopting a conflict-resolution approach and enhancing diversity; adapt behaviours and communication styles to specific contexts and learners’ needs;
2. Distinguish between formal and non-formal education; create an interactive and communicative learning environment applying non-formal education methods;
3. Introduce culture and cultural topics into language courses for promoting the learners’ integration into the host community and the intercultural environment of the learning space; apply non-formal education methods for introducing culture and language.