Directed Readings in an African, Asian, or Middle Eastern Language A

Key information

Start date
End date
Year of study
Any
Duration
Term 1
Module code
15PSEH016
FHEQ Level
7
Credits
15
Department
South East Asia Section, South Asia Section & School of Languages, Cultures and Linguistics

Module overview

The objective of the Directed Readings module is to provide students with advanced language skills with the opportunity to explore readings in a South or South East Asian language on a specific area of interest (e.g. literature, history, film, linguistics, culture) in greater depth and breadth than more traditional lecture-based modules permit.

The student will thereby gain both insight into new perspectives on the subject (which may be significantly different from the perspectives to be gained from reading in English) and a deeper understanding of the language in question. The range of languages in which this module may be made available is normally Bengali, Hindi, Urdi Sanskrit, Indonesian, Malay, Thai and Vietnamese. Other South East Asian languages, may be possible if suitable supervision can be arranged.

A suitable programme of readings in the relevant language will be agreed in consultation between the supervisor and the student to match the interests and abilities of the student. Anyone wishing to take a Directed Readings module must contact the relevant convenor and identify a potential supervisor well in advance to discuss the feasibility of their proposed topic.

Prerequisites

Sufficient expertise in a South Asian or South East Asian Language equivalent to completion of two years of language study.

Objectives and learning outcomes of the module

On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:

  1. locate and evaluate data in a South or South East Asian language on their chosen topic
  2. demonstrate an awareness of current critical thinking on the topic of interest
  3. communicate in written and spoken about the chosen topic
  4. demonstrate specialist knowledge of a South or South East Asian language in understanding the chosen topic
  5. demonstrate knowledge of aspects of the region within the topic of choice

Workload

Total of 6 hours project supervision throughout the term.

Scope and syllabus

The syllabus is determined by the student's own interests and needs and is agreed at the start of the module between student and supervisor.

Method of assessment

  • 20% - Draft proposal (800 words)
  • 80% - Essay or recorded presentation (3250 words or 15 minutes)
  • The exact assessment deadline dates are published on the relevant module Moodle/BLE page

Suggested reading

Readings will be discussed in consultation with the supervisor, but given SOAS library's extensive holding of texts and films in South Asian and South East Asian Languages, there will be no problem finding auitable materials on most topics related to film, literature, culture and history.

Disclaimer

Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules