2ENL51-11 Identities in Contemporary British and Irish Society

    • Course code
      2ENL51-11
    • Number of credits
      10
    • Teaching semester
      2025 Autumn
    • Language of instruction
      English
    • Campus
      Hamar
    • Required prerequisite knowledge

      None

Course content
  • This is an intermediate level course which gives an overview of British and Irish history and culture relevant for understanding present-day British and Irish society. The course offers fresh insight and perspectives on contemporary society in Britain and Ireland.
  • During the course, the students will gain a broader understanding of recent political developments like devolution, the Northern Ireland Peace Process, the Scottish Independence movement and Brexit. British and Irish identities will be explored from national, regional, ethnic, racial, religious and class perspectives, providing students with an appreciation of the cultural and social impact of literature, film, artistic expressions, music and sport on the British and Irish character.
  • The course will enhance the student’s skills in academic writing and critical thinking, as well as training his/her competence in finding, using and referring to appropriate sources.
  • The course provides students with a foundation for further studies of Britaind and Ireland as an area.

Learning Outcome

Upon successful completion of the course, the student will have achieved the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge

The student

  • has knowledge, and understanding of, British and Irish culture and society in a historical perspective
  • has an understanding of the nature of national identities in Britain and Ireland today
  • has an overview of the development of Britishness over time, and the particular challenges facing this identity today
  • has basic knowledge about theories relevant for the study of sociology 
Skills

The student

  • can discuss in depth topics relevant for the course
  • can apply theoretical perspectives in discussing national identities
  • can demonstrate an understanding of, and respect for different cultures
  • can keep up to date with current affairs  
General competence

The student

  • can communicate important academic subject matters such as theories, problems and solutions, both in writing and orally
  • has insight into relevant academic and professional ethical issues
  • can plan and carry out relevant assignments and projects over time, alone or as part of a group, and in accordance with ethical requirements and principles
  • can exchange opinions and experiences with others with a background in the field, thereby contributing to the development of good practice
Teaching and working methods

Teaching takes the form of interactive lectures and seminars, student presentations and discussions. A digital learning platform is used for course information and guidance. Regular and active participation in seminars is required.

Required coursework
  • An attendance record of at least 75 % according to the semester plan. Students are responsible for registration of attendance
  • 3 assignments (1 oral and 2 written) within specified deadlines for the course. The assignments must be approved by the teacher no later than 2 weeks before the exam
Assessments
Form of assessmentGrading scaleGroupingDuration of assessmentSupport materialsProportionComment
Portfolio Assessment
ECTS - A-F
Individual
100
Form of assessment

A portfolio consisting of two of written assignments. The portfolio will be graded on a scale from A to F. A is the highest pass grade and E is the lowest pass grade. Both content and English language skills must satisfy minimum requirements in order for a candidate to obtain a pass grade.

Professional overlap
NameCreditsDateComment
2EN48-11 Identities in Contemporary British and Irish Society
10
Course name in Norwegian Bokmål: 
Identities in Contemporary British and Irish Society
Faculty
Faculty of Education
Area of study
Femårig lektorutdanning
Programme of study
5-year Lecturer Education in Language and Literature
Course level
Intermediate course, level II (200-LN)