Aims

This course should lead to a better understanding of the Dutch speaking regions in Belgium and the Netherlands, against the background of the European Union. The development of this understanding will be based on an historical, sociological and political introduction and by using authentic Dutch sources. By the end of the course the student should be able to formulate in Dutch a well grounded opinion about major politico-social topics in the Dutch speaking communities.

Main themes

A survey of the life-style of the Dutch-speaking regions in Europe is presented from a cultural vantage point. A thematic approach starting from the notion of 'cultural identity' covers various aspects of the Flemish and Dutch society : politics, economy, education, religion, mass media, etc.

Content and teaching methods

In an attempt to better understand the Flemish Community in Belgium and the Dutch Community in the Netherlands, an analysis of the cultural identity of these two communities will be presented together with an historical description of the political organisation of these communities. This will serve as an introduction to the socio-economic life of Flanders and the Netherlands in a European context. The course will be given in Dutch and the students will deepen their knowledge through appropriate literature.

Other information (prerequisite, evaluation (assessment methods), course materials recommended readings, ...)

prerequisite:
As this course is taught in Dutch, an intermediate level of proficiency in Dutch, both receptive and productive, is necessary.

evaluation:
An oral examination at the end of the course based on the course, the recommended literature and the syllabus will consitute the final assessment.
course material:
A syllabus in Dutch, consisting of a theoretical introduction and topical extracts from authentic sources will be used as course material. Accompanying complementary reading will be indicated at the beginning of the course.

Programmes in which this activity is taught

Other credits in programs