All the texts we are discussing can now be found in the Moodle (Learnweb). It is vital that you enter the Moodle (Learnweb) and download all the materials, texts, and links as soon as possible, so that you can still work even when the university server does not!

Gradually, we will add "Study Tasks and Questions" to each text. These will give you clear instructions on what to do, what to discuss with your partner, and what to discuss in the "Questions and Discussions" forum in the Moodle (Learnweb).

You will be working in pairs throughout the term and have to speak on the phone in English (!) at least once every week. Therefore, you need to find a really reliable partner. At least one of the partners will have to have regular access to the learnweb.

When you have found a reliable partner, please enter both your names together into the "Partner Sign-Up List" in the Moodle (Learnweb)! If you are looking for a partner, you can also only add your name alone. But do not just pick a name from the list and team up without having contacted the fellow-student and made sure that they wish to work with you! Do email your potential partner first and double check.

When you are sure that you now are definitely a team and appear together in the "Partner Sign-up List" in the Moodle (Learnweb), please send each other your phone numbers and read to each other over the phone the first text in the Moodle (Learnweb) by Raymond Williams, called "Culture", by the end of April. You will also find a file with a list of helpful abbreviations that he uses in his text "Culture".

NOTE: Groups 2 and 3 have been joined with Group 1 for administrative reasons.

The courses will introduce students to the concept of "Cultural Studies", presenting the main topics, methods, and models connected with this approach. We will try to strike a balance between the theoretical and practical aspects of "culture", i. e. abstract approaches will always be applied to "cultural practices", such as film, advertising or consumption. In addition, categories like class, gender, and identity will be discussed with regard to their reflection in contemporary American and British cultures. Texts will be provided.