Globalisation has made it increasingly necessary for people to be more receptive to the prospects of working outside Singapore as well as working across cultures and nationalities. There is now a greater need to increase awareness, deepen understanding, hone competencies and skills necessary for people to function more effectively in multi-cultural contexts. Through the subjects in this cluster, you will acquire a heightened awareness and appreciation of linguistic and cultural differences, better understand global events and issues as well as enhance the quality of cross-cultural interactions on both a personal and professional level. | |  |
Subjects Offered *
You will be allowed to choose one of the following:
Introduction to Language & Culture (French)
You will learn how to introduce yourself, talk about your family, work and day to day activities as well as communicate effectively in various French-speaking situations (e.g. in a café and at the hotel reception). The subject also explores the key aspects of the culture of the French community.
Introduction to Language & Culture (Japanese)
This subject covers basic Japanese oral communication skills in situations covering greetings, meeting new friends, shopping and daily life. You will be able to learn more about the Japanese culture such as the Japanese mindset and current social issues and trends.
You will be allowed to choose one of the following:
Global Citizenship1
This subject highlights the interconnectedness of the world today through discussions on various global issues, bringing about an awareness of what it means to be a global citizen. An overseas trip will be included for you to better understand the issues raised during classroom sessions.
World Issues
This subject will enable you to understand the significant events impacting the world today. It will explore issues such as conflicts, human and drug trafficking, utilization of the earth’s resources and their effects on the environment. Through the insights gathered, you will have a better appreciation of the different perspectives, impacts and challenges arising from such issues and events.
You must take the following two subjects:
Cross-Cultural Psychology
This subject will give you a better understanding of how different cultural settings influence the way people think, behave, value and perceive things. It will raise awareness and create sensitivity on how culture shapes and influences a variety of areas ranging from individual development to socialization and work.
Transnational Studies
This subject will deepen your understanding of other cultures. You will also acquire skills and knowledge targeted at preparing you for life in the globalised workplace where you have to work with many nationalities in Singapore or overseas.
You are expected to complete a 4-week residential stint at the Glocal Connect Village (GCV)2 in Temasek Polytechnic. The GCV will provide opportunities for international and local students to interact and be engaged in a range of intercultural experiences together.
Lessons for this CDS are conducted during the 4 weekends of your GCV stay. You will continue to attend your regular diploma classes and participate in your CCA during the week.
* The subjects offered and information provided are accurate at the time of publication and may be subject to change.
1 This subject is conducted during the vacation term and the cost of the overseas study trip is borne entirely by the student. The subject is replaceable with the cross-disciplinary subject, “World Issues”, if students are unable to travel.
2 There is a fee of about $350 chargeable per student for the 4-week residential stint at the fully furnished GCV. Students may apply for grants/scholarships to defray costs.
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