This introductory module develops your intercultural communication skills, exploring the fascinating worlds of language, linguistics and culture. You’ll investigate the origins of language, its evolution as a tool for social cooperation, and the role of myths and storytelling in fostering cohesion. Unlike other modules focusing on a specific language, this module draws from many to examine the intricate relationship between language and culture. You'll build study skills, intercultural competence, language awareness, and an understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusivity in teams, enhancing your employability. Your study will support and complement the language skills covered in our language-specific modules.
What you will study
The module has three blocks. Each block consists of a book and some related online activities.
In Block 1, Language and Culture, you’ll learn basic concepts about the nature of language and culture, and their relationship. First, you’ll explore the human need for myths and stories. Then, you’ll examine how the components of language work together. Finally, the perspective broadens to show the complex relationships between language, culture, and the concept of nation.
In Block 2, Identity and Ideology, you’ll examine languages and cultures in contact across different nations and communities. The units in this block explore the complex web of values and beliefs that shape individual and collective identity, holding nations and communities together. They also take a critical lens to analyse the intricate interactions between identity and ideology.
In Block 3, Communication in the Workplace, you’ll develop your intercultural competence with a special focus on teamwork and leadership. Working with the materials in this block, you’ll explore different professional contexts and will enhance both your intercultural communication and employability skills.
Throughout the module, you’ll encounter a variety of examples and be encouraged to compare them to your own experiences.
This module equips you with a solid understanding of language, helping you recognise how it works and how it’s used across different contexts and purposes. It also provides a strong foundation in key cultural concepts, developing your intercultural awareness and communication skills. This module provides a critical understanding of intercultural issues that will support you throughout your further studies in languages or any subject you choose.
Entry requirements
This is a key introductory OU level 1 module. OU level 1 modules provide core subject knowledge and study skills needed for both higher education and distance learning. No prior knowledge is required to study this module.
Teaching and assessment
Support from your tutor
You’ll get help and support from an assigned tutor throughout your module.
They’ll help by:
marking your assignments and offering detailed feedback to help you improve
providing individual guidance, whether that’s for general study skills or specific module content
guiding you to additional learning resources
facilitating online discussions between your fellow students in the dedicated forums.
Online tutorials run throughout the module. While they’re not compulsory, we strongly encourage you to participate. Where possible, we’ll make recordings available.
Assessment
Course work includes:
3 Tutor-marked assignments (TMAs)
1 Interactive computer-marked assignment (iCMA)
What's included
You'll be provided with a printed module book covering each block of study.
You'll also have access to a module website, which includes:
a week-by-week study planner
course-specific module materials including activities
audio and video resources
assessment details and submission section
activity forums that focus on particular topics
a general forum where you can communicate with your fellow students and the module team.
Computing requirements
Primary device – A desktop or laptop computer with at least 8 GB of RAM and a quad-core processor (2.4 GHz minimum speed). It’s possible to access some materials on a mobile phone, tablet or Chromebook; however, they will not be suitable as your primary device.
Peripheral device – Headphones/earphones with a built-in microphone for online tutorials.
Operating systems – Windows 11 or the latest supported macOS.
Internet access – Broadband or mobile connection.
Browser – Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are recommended; Mozilla Firefox and Safari may be suitable.
Our OU Study app operates on supported versions of Android and iOS.
Software – Any additional software will be provided or is generally available for free.
If you have a disability
The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone, and this Accessibility Statement outlines what studying L161 involves. You should use this information to inform your study preparations and any discussions with us about how we can meet your needs.
To find out more about what kind of support and adjustments might be available, contact us or visit our Disability support website.
Future availability
Exploring languages and cultures (L161) starts once a year – in October.
This page describes the module that will start in October 2027.
We expect it to start for the last time in October 2033.