Following the strong interdisciplinary tradition of St. Scholastica,
the International Studies Program offers a broad range of courses which
encourage students to examine the complex relations between national
values, international events and global responsibilities. This program
gives students the opportunity to develop fluency in a language in
tandem with expertise in the historical, political and cultural
influences that have shaped current international events. LIS graduates
find positions in profit and nonprofit businesses or organizations at
home and abroad. They are also prepared for graduate school in either
languages or international studies.
The programs of the Department of Languages and International Studies
prepare students to live and work in an increasingly complex world in
which the global community is bound together by changing technological,
environmental and political factors.
The departmental course offerings provide students the opportunity to
cross linguistic, cultural and sociopolitical boundaries. Students are
immersed in alternative contexts that help them raise essential
questions about rights, responsibilities and the peaceful resolution of
conflict.
Chair: Diane Kessler, Ph.D.
Students will
LIS 1101 Introduction to International Studies (I, II) 4 cr.
Introduction to international studies as a field of inquiry and study.
Among the topics are conflict and security, the global economy,
development and the environment. Particular attention is given to case
studies and the cultural dimension of human experience. Required for a
major or minor in LIS.
LIS/POL 2001 Introduction to Political Science (II) 4 cr.
Introduction to the discipline of political science and the nature of
political discourse, institutions and organizations. Topics range from
politics and culture to terrorism and international relations.
LIS/HIS 2009 Modern Latin American History (I, VII) 4 cr.
Provides an introduction to 19th- and 20th-century Latin American
history. Themes and issues will include the colonial legacy,
modernization and nationalism, religion and politics, the revolutionary
experience of the 20th century, the role of women and the continuing
struggles of indigenous people.
LIS 2050 Introduction to Mexico (VII) 0-2 Cr.
This course focuses on understanding the social and cultural
differences between the United States and Mexico. Particular attention
is given to the social goals of the Mexican Revolution and how Mexico
has attempted to address or ignore these goals while striving to
develop its economy and society in the shadow of the world's remaining
superpower. Learning activities include readings, guest lectures by
Mexican social activists and academics, excursions to sites of
historical and cultural importance, reflection papers, and group
discussion. The course is a required component of the Semestre en
México program and is taught in English.
LIS/HUM 2101 Cross-Cultural Understanding 4 cr.
Emphasis on the necessity for being knowledgeable about the target
culture, the techniques that can be used to penetrate another culture
and the responsibilities one has in achieving intercultural
communication.
LIS 2201 Peaceful Resolution of International Conflicts (II)
4 cr.
Examination of international armed conflict as an historical and
cultural phenomenon. An emphasis is placed on causes of international
armed conflict. Conventional (and unconventional) approaches to
international conflict resolution are covered. Discussion of
contemporary issues is included.
LIS 2220 Dance, Gender and Culture (VIII) 2 cr.
A study of the body as an expressive instrument, a site of social
conditioning, and a means of shaping and conveying identity. The course
is organized thematically, with a specific dance culture to illustrate
a set of issues ranging from sexuality, desire, and exoticism to
empowerment and assertion of identity through dance. Through readings
and analysis of performance, our study of dance as a cultural
phenomenon leads us to investigations of history, politics, social
dynamics and the shifting categories of race, class and gender, belief
and cultural identity.
LIS/POL 3001 Politics of Globalization (II) 4 cr.
Divergent points of views and forms of analysis that surround the
debate over globalization. The course stresses the fact that
globalization is not only about economics and politics but also
includes wide-ranging cultural, social and moral issues confronting the
world community.
LIS 3200 Popular Music and Political Movements (I, VIII) 4
cr.
Political and social movements are peoples' collective efforts to
transform history. This course examines political movements from the
unique perspective of popular music performers who, throughout history
and across cultures, have used song and dance as liberating and
mobilizing forces for political action. Throughout the course, we will
examine social and political movements from an interdisciplinary
perspective, applying social change theory, literary theory, liberation
theology and feminist theory to popular music. Tracing these movements
through their particular historical and cultural contexts, we will
explore the impact of popular music on social transformation and
political change.
LIS/CTA 3202 Culture Through Film(I, VIII) 2 cr.
An exploration of film as cultural expression and as a medium through
which the viewer may explore cross-cultural issues.
LIS 3301 Human Rights (II) 4 cr.
Inquiry into the nature and role of human rights in the context of
current international relations. Issues to be addressed range from the
relationship between individual and collective rights to the problems
of implementation of these rights. Among topics to be considered are
torture, political repression, rights of women and indigenous peoples
and cultural diversity.
LIS 3302 Europe Today (I, II) 4 cr.
An examination of contemporary trends that are pushing toward
increasing political and economic cooperation among European states. In
addition, the course will explore forces at work that are resisting
tendencies toward European unity. The course includes geographical,
cultural, social, political and economic elements as well as indepth
treatment of two key players, Germany and Russia. May be applied to GMN
minor. See instructor.
LIS/SPN 3303 The Other America (I, II)
4 cr.
A course designed to introduce the student to the complex issues
concerning contemporary Latin America. Students will explore current
topics and events from a multidisciplinary perspective.
LIS 3304/HIS 3301 Modern Russian History (VII) 4 cr.
Survey of 20th century Russia against the background of its rich
history. Focuses on the political, cultural and intellectual history of
this giant country with an emphasis on comparisons with its European
neighbors.
LIS 3401 Health Care Across Cultures (I, WI) 4 cr.
An analysis of the influence of culture on health beliefs, values and
healthcare practices. Through interactive exercises, case studies,
interviews, guest speakers, reflection papers, research and literature,
the course investigates the increasingly complex intersection between
healthcare delivery and culture. Students also examine the value
assumptions of their own health beliefs in an effort to increase their
effectiveness in intercultural healthcare settings.
LIS 4001 Senior Capstone 2 cr.
Designed to build on previous core (general education) courses and to
be multidisciplinary, i.e., to integrate considerations from several
fields of study. Focus is on contemporary concerns about the world and
how to deal with them.
LIS/POL 4402 Environmental Politics (I, WI) 4 cr.
An examination of what kinds of international institutions are best
suited to deal with global environmental problems; the role of
nongovernmental organizations; and the relationship between varying
models of development and the environment. Particular attention is
given to a series of case studies that focus on indigenous peoples and
environmental issues as well as the nature of environmental racism.
LIS 4411 Strangers in Their Own Land (I, WI) 4 cr.
Focuses on the impact of various types of development on indigenous
people in the United States, Canada, Australia and the rainforest of
the Amazon. Attention is also given to issues raised by marginalized
societies such as language, culture and education.
LIS 4555 LIS Internship 0-6 cr.
Done in an international setting appropriate to the student's field of
interest. Student is supervised by a site supervisor. Evaluation of
performance will be completed by the site supervisor, internship
advisor and student. Students may obtain additional information about
internships from appropriate language faculty. Prerequisite: approval
of instructor.
The ASL program includes a full year (eight credits) of language study. Students will have the opportunity to understand deaf culture and its dynamics as well as to articulate their responses to relevant social aspects and values of the deaf culture and the community.
ASL 1101-1102 American Sign Language I & II (III) 2 cr.
each
Introduces basic signing skills of comprehension and communication.
Emphasizes active use in
communicative context as well as cultural analysis.
ASL 1103 - 1104 American Sign Language III & IV (III) 2
cr. each
Expands students' ability to communicate through introduction of more
complex linguistic structures. Completes beginning level sequence.
Prerequisite: Placement test, permission of the instructor or
completion of ASL 1102.
The French language and culture program includes three semesters of basic French language study which uses a communicative approach as well as a series of courses to increase a student's knowledge of French life, history and culture. Several of the courses in the French sequence also count toward a major or minor in International Studies.
French Minor: 20 credits beyond FRN 1102 including FRN 3301, FRN 3303 or 3304 and FRN 3305.
FRN 1101-1102 Conversational French I and II (III) 2 cr. each
First semester sequence of French language study, focusing on the basic
structures necessary for asking and answering simple but meaningful
questions concerning directions, family life and school. Prerequisite:
Placement test or permission of instructor.
FRN 1103-1104 Conversational French III and IV (III) 2 cr.
each.
Expands students' ability to communicate through introduction of more
complex linguistic structures. Completes beginning level sequence.
Prerequisite: Placement test or permission of instructor.
FRN 2201 Intermediate French 2 cr.
Completes basic study of linguistic components necessary for
participation in meaningful discussion and dialogue in the French
language. Prerequisite: FRN 1104, placement test or permission of
instructor.
FRN 2202 La Vie Culturelle en France 2 cr.
Study of significant aspects of social and cultural realities of
France. Course also counts toward major/minor in LIS. Prerequisite: FRN
2201 or permission of instructor.
FRN 2301 Readings in French 2 cr.
Emphasis on current articles in French concerning the arts and sciences
as well as longer texts such as short stories and plays. Prerequisite:
FRN 2201 or permission of instructor.
FRN 3101 L'Histoire de la France 2 cr.
Survey of major aspects in the development of France as a modern
European nation. Course also counts toward major/minor in LIS.
Prerequisite: FRN 2202 or permission of instructor.
FRN 3201 La Poésie Française 2 cr.
Opportunity to read and discuss works of major French poets from
medieval to modern times. Relationship of versification techniques to
meaning is emphasized. Prerequisites: FRN 2301 or permission of
instructor.
FRN 3301 Readings in French II 2 cr.
Expansion of FRN 2301. Students will read literary works in French from
various francophone countries. Prerequisite: FRN 2301 or permission of
instructor.
FRN 3303-3304 Advanced Conversation I and II 2 cr. each.
Focus on greater fluency in speaking. Emphasis on expanded vocabulary
and more complex structures. Prerequisite: FRN 2201 or permission of
instructor.
FRN 3305 French Composition and Correspondence 2 cr.
Students strengthen writing skills in French through applied grammar
exercises which relate to narration, description, dialogue and personal
and professional correspondence. Prerequisite: FRN 2302 or permission
of instructor.
FRN 3378 French Pronunciation 1 cr.
Students have the opportunity to practice sounds, intonation and rhythm
patterns that are specific to the French language.
FRN 3379 French Cooking 1 cr.
Students learn the vocabulary and cultural materials necessary to plan,
prepare and serve a complete French meal.
FRN 3777 Topics in French Civilization and Culture 2 cr.
French language courses not part of the regular French curriculum.
Topics chosen will be based on relevance to both the French and the
International Studies curriculum. Prerequisite: FRN 2202 or permission
of instructor.
FRN 4999 Independent Study 1-4 credits
Self-determined program of study under faculty direction for student
whose interests extend beyond the curricular offerings of the
department.
The German language and culture program includes two-plus years of German language study based on a communicative approach emphasizing listening, speaking, reading and writing skills, as well as cultural studies. In addition, there is the opportunity to participate in the St. Scholastica/Leipzig Exchange Program, an exchange of St. Scholastica students and students from the Leipzig Medical Training Institute in Germany (see STUDY ABROAD, General Information). All students with previous German study are required to take the Language Placement Test for placement into the appropriate skills section.
Minor: Minimum of 20 credits beyond GMN 1102, and including GMN 1103, 1104, 2201, 2202. Remaining credits may be fulfilled by any other GMN courses, LIS 3302 (Europe Today), or LIS 3202 (German Film offering) courses and Study Abroad option. All minors are required to participate in a summer language program abroad, preferably at the Goethe Institute (four weeks/4 cr.) or with the St. Scholastica/Leipzig Exchange Program (two weeks/2 cr.). Other credited study abroad programs may be substituted with permission of the instructor, who also reserves the right to substitute requirements when warranted.
GMN 1101-1102 Beginning German I and II (III) 2 cr. each
Introduces basic oral, listening comprehension, reading and writing
skills. Emphasizes active use in communicative contexts based on daily
life as well as cultural analysis. Prerequisite: Placement test or
permission of instructor.
GMN 1103-1104 Beginning German III and IV (III) 2 cr. each
Introduces more complex linguistic features and continues the
development of the oral, listening comprehension, reading and writing
skills within culturally contrastive contexts. Prerequisite: Placement
test or permission of instructor.
GMN 2201 Intermediate German I 4 cr.
Promotes the synthesis of the basic language skills through a grammar
review, vocabulary building, the use of authentic texts, hands-on
projects, films and native speakers to generate discussion and deepen
cultural understanding. Prerequisite: Placement test or permission of
instructor.
GMN 2202 Intermediate German II 4 cr.
Continues the language skills and cultural understanding synthesis of
the previous course, adding historical and literary texts to help
develop the pragmatics of opinion formation and more complex discourse.
Prerequisite: GMN 2201 or permission of instructor.
GMN 3300 Leipzig Seminar 0-2 cr.
Open to participants of the St. Scholastica/Leipzig Exchange Program,
this seminar concludes with a two-week site visit in Leipzig, Germany,
at the end of spring semester. The seminar consists of a siterelated
cultural and historical orientation as well as the development of a
research project to be carried out during the on-site visit.
Prerequisite: Selection as a participant of the Leipzig Exchange
Program.
GMN 3301-3302 Advanced German Composition and Conversation 2
cr. each
Encourages the development of language functions on a higher level,
such as opinion formation and abstraction in both written and oral use.
Texts include a broad range of cultural topics, including current
events and internet information, music, literature and history.
Prerequisite: GMN 2202 or permission of instructor.
GMN 3378 Multi-skill Units 1 cr.
Rotating one-credit courses offer students a context-based course
enabling them to continue developing their German language skills on a
limited basis. Subjects offered include German fairy tales, German
conversation, German film, German cooking and German pronunciation.
Prerequisite: GMN 1103 or permission of instructor.
GMN 3777 Topics in German Civilization and Culture 2 cr. each
Courses offer in-depth study of subjects not covered in the general
language sequence. Topics chosen will be based on relevance to both the
German and the International Studies curriculum. Prerequisite: GMN 2202
or permission of instructor.
GMN 4999 Independent Study 1-4 cr.
Self-determined program of study under faculty direction for students
whose interests extend beyond the curricular offerings of the
department. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
LTN 1101 and 1102 Latin I and II (III) 2 cr. each
Introduces grammar, syntax and basic vocabulary with an aim toward
reading fluency and some degree of oral expression; begins to examine
the culture and society in which this language flourshed. Prerequisite:
Placement exam or consent of instructor.
LTN 1103 and 1104 Latin III and IV (III) 2 cr. each
Completes the introduction to grammar, syntax and basic vocabulary with
an aim toward reading fluency and some degree of oral expression;
continues to acquaint students with the culture and society in which
this language flourshed, with particular attention to the affect of
Latin on post-classical cultures and languages. Prerequisite: Placement
exam or consent of instructor.
The Ojibwe language is spoken by many Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) people in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and Canada. During recent generations, Anishinaabe communities - in partnership with non-Indian allies - have been engaged in a process of revitalizing the language, nearly lost for a variety of historical reasons. Courses are open to all students who are interested in Ojibwe language and way of life.
OJB 1101-1104 Ojibwe Language and Culture (III) 2 cr. each
A four-part sequence in Beginning Ojibwemowin, implementing the
double-vowel system. These courses introduce students to seasonal
cultural practices as well as pronunciation, spelling and the usage of
basic verbs and nouns (animate and inanimate) in simple sentences.
OJB 2101 Intermediate Ojibwe I 2 cr.
The second phase of the Ojibwe language sequence which adds a class of
verbs to the existing vocabulary, builds speaking skills with more
complex sentences, and emphasizes the translation from English to
Ojibwe and Ojibwe to English. Prerequisite: OJB 1104.
OJB 2102 Intermediate Ojibwe II 2 cr.
Prerequisite: OJB 2101.
OJB 2777 Topics in Ojibwe Language 1-4 cr.
Courses not a part of the regular intermediate Ojibwe curriculum but
taught because of a special need, interest or opportunity.
OJB 3101 Advanced Ojibwe I 2 cr.
Final phase of the Ojibwe language sequence. This course focuses on the
mechanics of the language and especially on oral skills in preparation
for a final proficiency exam. Some of the linguistic aspects of the
Ojibwe language are explored, while adding a final class of verbs and
increasing complexity of vocabulary as well as sentence construction.
Prerequisite: OJB 2102.
OJB 4101 Advanced Ojibwe II 2 cr.
Prerequisite: OJB 3101.
OJB 4999 Independent Study 1-4 cr.
The Russian language and culture program includes three years of Russian language study with particular emphasis on speaking and listening skills. To supplement this basic language sequence, the College participates in an ongoing series of faculty and student exchanges during the regular academic year with the Karelian State Pedagogical University in Petrozavodsk, Duluth's sister city in Russia. In addition, American students of Russian may participate in a five-week summer Russian language camp in Petrozavodsk operated by the Pedagogical University, or they may want to help host Russian students who come to an English language camp at the College in alternate summers.
Minor: Minimum of 20 credits beyond RUS 1102, including RUS 1103-1104 and RUS 2201-2202. Students must also take either RUS 2280 or HIS 3301, as well as either RUS 2209 or RUS 3301-3302. (Other study-abroad experiences may be accepted in fulfillment of RUS 2209.)
RUS 1101-1102; 1103-1104 Beginning Russian (III) 2 cr. each
Introduction to basic grammar of Russian. Practice using all four
language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing.
RUS 2201-2202 Intermediate Russian 8 cr. (4 cr./semester)
Continuation of Russian grammar and vocabulary building. Classes
include reading of intermediate texts. Attention is given to perfecting
basic language skills covered in the beginning courses.
RUS 2209 Russian Language Camp (I, III) 4 cr.
A minimum of four weeks of formal Russian language training at the
Karelian Pedagogical University in Petrozavodsk, Russia. In addition to
the four weeks at the university, the camp includes some touring of
other parts of Russia, including major cities. Prerequisite: RUS 1104
or consent of American instructor. Offered every other year.
RUS/ENG 2280 Literature in Translation (I, IV) 4 cr.
Study of literature written in Spanish or French or German or Russian
and translated into English. Selected works of prose and poetry from a
particular period with emphasis on careful reading and reader response
as well as on the cultural, historical, political, religious and
economic developments that provide context.
RUS 2777 Topics 1-4 cr.
Russian language courses not part of the regular Russian curriculum.
Topics chosen will be based on relevance to both the Russian and the
International Studies curriculum.
RUS 3301-3302 Advanced Russian Grammar 2 cr. each
Sequence offering the opportunity to practice the application of skills
learned at the intermediate level while encouraging the development of
higher level functions of language communication such as opinion
formation and abstraction. This sequence includes grammar review as
well as reading of selected classical and contemporary Russian texts.
All four language skills are given attention.
RUS 4777 Topics 1-4 cr.
Russian language courses not part of the regular Russian curriculum.
Topics chosen will be based on relevance to both the Russian and the
International Studies curriculum.
RUS 4999 Independent Study 1-4 cr.
Self-determined program of study under faculty direction for a student
whose interests extend beyond the curricular offerings of the
department.
The Spanish language and culture program includes four semesters of basic Spanish language study using a communicative approach as well as a series of courses designed to increase a student's knowledge of Hispanic life, history and culture.
The Minor in Spanish
Minor candidates need to complete the following requirements:
SPN 1101-1102 Beginning Spanish I and II (III) 2 cr. each
The first-semester sequence of beginning Spanish language study.
Students learn basic sentence structures and patterns and develop basic
oral communication skills. Focus is on listening and speaking skills.
Prerequisite: Placement exam or consent of instructor.
SPN 1103-1104 Beginning Spanish III and IV (III) 2 cr. each
The second-semester sequence of beginning Spanish language study.
Students learn more complex structures and continue developing oral
communicative abilities with increased emphasis on reading and writing
skills. Prerequisite: Placement exam or consent of instructor. 4 cr.SPN
2101 Intermediate Spanish I 4 cr. Intermediate course that deals with
the more sophisticated elements of Spanish grammar and communication.
All four skills - listening, speaking, reading and writing - are
practiced with a special emphasis on listening and speaking skills.
Prerequisite: Placement exam, SPN 1104 or consent of instructor.
SPN 2102 Intermediate Spanish II 4 cr.
Continuation of SPN 2101 with a special emphasis on reading and writing
skills. Prerequisite: Placement exam, SPN 2101, or consent of
instructor.
SPN 2514 Hispanic Poetry 2 cr.
Opportunity to study the major poets of the Hispanic world. The course
deals with a different writer every time it is offered. The
international significance of each poet, his/her influence on the
Hispanic world and the specific cultural importance of these writers
will be examined. Prerequisite: SPN 2101 or consent of instructor.
SPN/LIS 3303 The Other America 4 cr.
Taught in English. A course designed to introduce the student to the
complex issues concerning contemporary Latin America. Students will
explore current topics and events from a multidisciplinary point of
view.
SPN 3513 Composition/Grammar Review 4 cr.
A required course for minors. The course covers all types of writing
and provides a comprehensive review of Spanish grammar. Emphasis on use
of appropriate vocabulary and composition skills. Prerequisite: SPN
2102 or consent of instructor.
SPN 3516 Hispanic Short Stories 2 cr.
Introduction to literature in Spanish. The course deals with writers
from Spain and Spanish America and chiefly from the 20th century.
Students will become acquainted with major Spanish-speaking writers and
with their way of seeing and depicting the world. Good reading skills
needed. Prerequisite: SPN 2102 or consent of instructor.
SPN 3601 Civilization: Spain 2 cr.
Overview of the rich history and culture of Spain, beginning with the
earliest inhabitants and moving to the 21st century, highlighting major
events. Good reading and speaking skills needed. Prerequisite: SPN 2102
or consent of instructor.
SPN 3602 Civilization: Latin America 2 cr.
Overview of the rich history and culture of Latin America, primarily of
the Spanish-speaking regions. Begins with the native traditions of the
Aztec, Mayan and Inca inhabitants and moves to the 21st century,
highlighting major events. Good reading and speaking skills needed.
Prerequisite: SPN 2102 or consent of instructor.
SPN 3777 Topics in Hispanic Culture and Civilization 2-4 cr.
Offers in-depth study of subjects not covered in the general language
sequence of the curriculum. Topics chosen will be based on relevance to
both the Spanish and the International Studies curriculum.
Prerequisite: SPN 2102 or consent of instructor.
SPN 3901 Hispanic Women Writers 2 cr.
Examination of some of the many Hispanic women writers who best
represent their cultures and who explore women's historic roles in the
Hispanic world and their efforts to achieve a place in this society.
SPN 3951 Masterpieces of Hispanic Literature 4 cr.
Opportunity to read some of the major literary works written in
Spanish. While the content of the course changes periodically, the
guiding principle is the inclusion of as much variety as possible from
the different genres, historical periods, countries and sub-cultures.
Prerequisite: At least one 3000 level course (except SPN 3303) passed
with a B average or consent of instructor.
SPN 4999 Independent Study 1-4 cr.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
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