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Languages
Croeso: beginners' Welsh
Are you interested in learning more about one of Europe's oldest languages? Or would you simply like to brush up on your Welsh? Then look no further. This collection of audio material features a variety of speakers, talking about their interests, holidays, opinions, likes and dislikes. A short historical account can also be found here. There is...
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History & The Arts
How does JK Rowling use Latin and other classical languages in Harry Potter?
To create a sense of the long history of wizardry in the Potterverse, JK Rowling drew heavily on classical languages. The OU's Joanna Paul explores.
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History & The Arts
Mizuki Shigeru: An appreciation
Manga artist, folklorist and icon Mizuki Shigeru has died. Nevin Thompson explains the role he played in Japanese culture, and why he'll be so missed.
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level 1: introductory icon
Languages
Beginners’ Tamil: a taster course
This free course, Beginners’ Tamil: a taster course, provides a brief introduction to the Tamil language and its scripts and sounds. You will learn how to greet people and introduce yourself, as well as how to count from one to ten. You will also be introduced to Tamil society and culture and will learn about the food and music popular in ...
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Languages
"That's so gay!" Homophobic language and school
How is the word 'gay' used in your school? What negative impact can it have on the pupils' views about homosexuality? Find out with the founder of Inclusion for All, Shaun Dellenty.
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Languages
Getting started with Chinese business culture essentials
Business dealings with China are on the increase. As a result, more and more organisations and business people are realising the need of doing more than just adhering to the rules of Chinese etiquette (such as presenting business cards with both hands) or the ‘dos and don'ts’ (such not opening gifts in front of your hosts) to have successful ...
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Languages
English: Language of controversy
Is English a force for good? What have been the ramifications of this language’s dominance in ex colonies and also throughout the world? We debate how local languages have suffered as a result of the spread of English and investigate the consequences of its influence on indigenous communities. Language campaigner Neville Alexander provides a ...
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Languages
Beginners’ Spanish: Getting around
Do you want to improve your language skills and communicate more easily and effectively in Spanish? This free course, Beginners’ Spanish: Getting around, concentrates on Spanish as a tool for communication, but it also provides some insights into Hispanic societies and cultures through authentic printed and audio materials. This OpenLearn course...
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Languages
Intermediate German: The world of work
This free course, Intermediate German: The world of work, concentrates on developing cultural knowledge and practical language skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing and interacting in a variety of situations.
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Health, Sports & Psychology
An introduction to European crime fiction since 1945
The popularity of crime fiction is on the rise. Bill Alder looks back and charts the history of this genre in post-1945 Europe.
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Languages
Can cartoons help keep indigenous Mexican languages alive?
A new project, 68 Tongues, 68 hearts, aims to help keep the indigenous languages of Mexico alive.
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Languages
Explore Welsh & Wales with OpenLearn
Get to know the language, identity and culture of Wales better by listening to our podcasts or taking a Welsh course.