Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and problems for Social sciences

Discourse Analysis

The Study of Discourse

Discourse can be described as a form of verbal interaction encompassing three main dimensions: language use, communication of beliefs (cognition), and interaction in social situations. Discourse studies provide systematic descriptions of these dimensions and formulate theories explaining their relationships. These studies also examine the properties of text and talk within their respective contexts.

Challenges in Discourse Studies

• Ambiguity of the definition: Differentiating between the abstract and specific uses of "discourse" is crucial.
• Delimiting discourses sometimes requires theoretical notions and considerations of the communicative context.

Discourse as Social Action and Interaction

Discourse can... Continue reading "Discourse Analysis: Language, Cognition, and Society" »

Understanding International Relations

International relations refers to interactions where the primary subjects are states, and the issues involved directly affect their national interests. Today, other significant social agents, such as multinational companies, also play a crucial role in international relations.

Key Characteristics of International Relations

• Diversification: International relations are implemented across a wide range of fields, promoting the establishment of institutions to address global problems.
• Globalization: This phenomenon impacts a larger number of states and other social agents, requiring them to confront global challenges and coordinate global interests worldwide.
• Institutionalization: International relations possess

Durkheim's Division of Labor and Social Solidarity

The development of the division of labor introduces two types of solidarity:

• Mechanical Solidarity: Found in traditional societies where members share moral sentiments. When the common consciousness (CC) completely envelops a person's consciousness, their personality disappears, individuality equals zero, and they are collective beings (mechanical solidarity at its maximum).
• Organic Solidarity: Found in modern society, held together by mutual dependency between people. Individuals are different from each other; modern society is a system of difference and specialized functions.

Common Consciousness vs. Individual Consciousness

The Common Consciousness (CC) is of a very general nature. Individual... Continue reading "Durkheim's Solidarity and Tocqueville's American Democracy" »

Communication in Early Childhood Education

Body Language

(Ribas Antuña: 2011) Body language is specifically mentioned in the Infant Curriculum. When learning a foreign language, our body is essential. Images and realia materials are extremely important in the teaching-learning process. Our body, one of the main elements of non-verbal communication, is also a means to make our pupils conscious of shapes, spaces, and objects. Pointing out is absolutely important. By using our body without speaking, students can make associations between English names and objects, parts of the body, etc. Our body is also a means and a tool for dramatization activities.

Verbal Communication

• Set of signs
• Oral or written communication in its multiple forms
• Convention

Teamwork: Roles and Responsibilities

Brain

The Brain is the problem-solver and the go-to person for questions. They are the most decisive and intelligent member of the team.

Coordinator

The Coordinator directs the team's workflow, schedules meetings, and divides tasks among groups. They also resolve group dynamic issues and ensure smooth operations.

Resource Investigator

Resource Investigators explore ideas and report their findings from outside the group. They are skilled at establishing external contacts and conducting negotiations.

Impulsor

Impulsors are action-oriented individuals who motivate themselves and others, even in challenging situations. They are quick to find solutions during crises.

Monitor Evaluator

Monitor Evaluators are rational thinkers... Continue reading "Effective Teamwork: Roles, Agreements & Decision-Making" »

20)plurilingualism and multilingualism? This two terms are used to describe situations in which individuals or communities have proficiency in multiple languages. Although they are often used in the same way, they have some differences. -Plurilingualism refers to an individual's mastery or competence in a multiple language. It implies that the person is able to use and comprehend several languages fluently and efficiently. It highlights an individual's ability to communicate in different languages. -Multilingualis refers to the presence and use of multiple languages in a community. It refers to the coexistence of different languages in a given environment, where people should use more than one language in their daily lives. It is more about... Continue reading "Understanding Plurilingualism and Multilingualism: A Comprehensive Approach" »

Constitution

A Constitution is a set of fundamental laws (whether codified as a written document or not) that people have made and agreed upon for governance. A constitution enumerates and limits the powers and functions of a political entity.

Bourgeois Revolution

A Bourgeois Revolution is a sudden political change led by the Bourgeoisie that transforms the life of people in a short lapse of time. A society based on the Estates of the Realm gave way to a liberal society. In many countries of Europe and America, these social transformations took place from the late 1700s and throughout the 19th century.

The Estates General

The Estates General was a consultative French assembly that brought together the three Estates of the Realm of the Ancien Régime.... Continue reading "Defining Core Political and Historical Terminology" »

1. Conservatism, Liberalism, Socialism, and Communism Explained

Conservatism (1815-1860)

• Conservatism is a political and social philosophy promoting traditional social institutions in the context of culture and civilization. The central tenets of conservatism include tradition, human imperfection, organic solidarity, hierarchy, authority, and property rights.
• Human beings are better off when guided and sheltered by authority.
• It is opposed to the ideals of Liberalism and Socialism.
• Highest goods: stability, security, order.
• Free individuals are willing to sin.
• Enemy: those seeking freedom from tradition.
• Social stability requires physical force.
• During the Continental System, France demanded money and men from dependent countries in Europe. Europeans

How Does the State Participate in the Economy?

United States of America

The State does not participate in regulating the market and economy. For example, in the USA, there is no minimum salary approved by law or severance pay if someone is dismissed.

Sweden

The State participates in regulating the basic economic and labor issues. For example, there is a minimum salary approved by law and severance pay if you are dismissed.

Cuba

The State regulates nearly all aspects that affect citizens, such as salaries and the prices of basic products.

Is Civil Society Involved in the Welfare State?

United States of America

There are plenty of civil society associations to help needy citizens because their basic needs are not covered at all. This service is given... Continue reading "State Participation in the Economy: USA, Sweden, Cuba" »

Intercultural Communication: Bridging Cultural Differences

Intercultural communication is the study and practice of communication across diverse cultural contexts. It encompasses both domestic cultural differences (e.g., ethnicity and gender) and international differences (e.g., nationality and world region). This approach to communication emphasizes recognizing and respecting cultural differences, striving for mutual adaptation and biculturalism (rather than assimilation), and fostering intercultural sensitivity in individuals and organizations. The ultimate goal is to achieve empathic understanding and competent coordination across cultures.

Defining Communication and Cultural Context

The following sections delve deeper into the definitions... Continue reading "Understanding Intercultural Communication: A Comprehensive Guide" »