Lysaght, Anna Maria
(1998)
Landeskunde: Its Role and Functions in the Irish German Language
Classroom
An Empirical Study.
Masters thesis, National University of Ireland Maynooth.
Abstract
This thesis deals with the role and functions of Landeskunde in the Irish secondary
educational system. The controversial nature of Landeskunde (see section 1) and the
differing views surrounding its composition, role and functions in both teaching
approaches in general and in the Irish secondary school system in particular were the
issues which prompted the research that comprises the basis of this study.
Chapter one offers an analysis of the concept of Landeskunde - what it actually is. There
is a brief outline of various theories put forward throughout the development of foreign
language teaching regarding the composition of Landeskunde, it’s aims and functions.
The development of Landeskunde and its changing role within the Communicative
Approach and the Intercultural Approach is also investigated.
Chapter two looks at the role of Landeskunde (referred to in the Curriculum Guidelines
of the Department of Education as “Cultural Studies”) in both the Junior and Leaving
Certificate courses in Ireland. Also included is a look at the different approaches used in
teaching culture at both levels and the ambiguities present for teachers when choosing
material relating to and aspects of the target language country to use in class.
Chapter three presents an examination of results obtained from empirical research based
on factual evidence gathered in response to the questionnaire distributed as part of this
study (see Appendix One). It is a concrete illustration of the popularity and importance of
Landeskunde in Irish secondary schools.
Included in chapter four are some important conclusions ascertained from responses to
the questionnaires followed by some practical recommendations for teachers regarding
the methodologies and materials used in teaching German as a second language in Irish
secondary schools.
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