German-speaking feature movies as a media of intercultural sensitization while teaching German as a technical language focussed on tourism
Abstract
The lecture illustrates by means of a specific example how feature films can be used as a medium of making people aware of cultural differences in courses of German as a technical language focussing on tourism. The following ideas are based on the dilemma of tourism employees who are permanently confronted with the challenge of meeting (as to language and culture) foreign guests' expectations on the one hand, and of presenting an authentic view of the own culture on the other hand.
Following the "Four cultures' model" by Marion Thiem, a teaching unit will be presented, where the feature film (man spricht deutsh) is analysed regarding 'culture of the region of origin', 'holiday culture', 'service culture' and 'culture of the region of destination' as experienced by tourists staying abroad. Last not least transfer exercises will be suggested that might help students to use their knowledge about intercultural differences in their future professional practice.