Current affairs: part 1

Do you want to find out more about the issues in the news? Enrol early for lively, informed discussion on current events in Britain and the world.

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Key course information

Dates
21/09/11 - 14/12/11

Day(s)
Wed

Duration
13 weeks

Time
12:15 - 13:45

Fees
Full fee: £90
Senior fee: £51

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HH024

Availability
This course has finished

No concessionary fees are available as the limit has been reached.

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

The course provides an excellent opportunity to discuss in some depth the news on a continuing basis, exploring a range of the most interesting developments. An attempt will be made to develop themes that will give you an interpretative framework within which individual events can be analysed in the context of more general trends.

What topics will we cover?

The main focus of the course is on understanding the significance of the news as it is reported on a week by week basis in the media generally. The potential for a high level of learner interest in the topics selected for discussion is of prime importance. Themes may include:
- ethnic nationalism
- secular politics and religious issues of social and political significance
- the Human Rights debate
- socialism and the market economy
- issues of war and peace
- science and progress, often coupled with ethical and religious questions
These themes are not intended to be exhaustive and are open to a variety of interpretations. Issues of War and Peace might well include the situation in the Middle East, the problems of Burma, and the conflict in the Sudan.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- identify and analyse those news events that are likely to create political repercussions at home and overseas
- discuss such events in their appropriate context
- identify the agenda-setting role of editors in the media
- develop skills relating to the criticism of news stories.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

No previous knowledge is required although you will be encouraged to read regularly at least one quality daily newspaper as background preparation. The tutor usually supplies extracts from the media or books to aid discussion on each specific topic. You will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. As with most of our history and current affairs courses, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about new ideas with which you may not agree are more important than specific levels of skills.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Most sessions involve the tutor leading in with a prepared talk, one or more readings from the printed media, and/or a video or pictorial presentation. There is ample opportunity for discussion of issues or problems raised. As the course progresses learners are encouraged to take an increasing part in the learning process, especially with regard to asking questions and discussing topics raised.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

You are encouraged to prepare for each weeks topic by reading a newspaper and listening to the news and current affairs programmes on radio and/or television.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.