Exploring languages and cultures
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This introductory module develops your intercultural communication skills and explores 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 languages to examine the intricate relationship between language and culture. It helps you build study skills, intercultural competence, and language awareness, enhancing your employability. You’ll reflect on the importance of diversity and inclusivity in teams. It will also 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 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. If you choose to continue your language studies, this module offers a critical understanding of intercultural issues that will support you throughout further study.
You will learn
You’ll develop core competences and skills including intercultural communicative competence, knowledge of the world, digital and information literacies, employability and professional skills, knowledge of genre and register, academic reading and listening skills, academic writing and speaking.
Professional recognition
The Chartered Institute of Marketing now recognises this module under their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme.
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.
If you have any doubt about the suitability of the module, please speak to an adviser.
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. 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.
- Our OU Study app operates on supported versions of Android and iOS.
- Operating systems – Windows 11 or latest supported macOS. Microsoft will no longer support Windows 10 as of 14 October 2025.
- Internet access – Broadband or mobile connection.
- Browser – Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are recommended. Mozilla Firefox and Safari may be suitable.