Don't ever study languages at Monash [and other subjects to avoid]

[ninwa]

I don't get it. Isn't analysing poems and films are major part of studying a language at uni? The kids who take tert hebrew @school have found the subject way more enjoyable than VCE,

How so? We are not studying the language itself. Rather, it is somewhat similar to VCE English, just taught in a different language. (i.e. discussing the camera/film techniques, the symbols in the novels etc.)

In German culture, we had to study Mein Kampf. We apparently spent a couple of tutorials discussing the philosophy behind Hitler's ideas (or something like that - I left after half an hour and wagged the class for a couple of weeks).

Not very enjoyable... and hardly a "major part" of studying the German language itself.

Out of curiosity, which languages did you study?

French and German.

[iffets12345]

Hmm, well maybe it's because people who sign up to learn the language are also interested in the culture, and learning about the culture is a good way to understand language as a living thing? That was really corny but learning a language without learning some of the culture is a bit cold imo, and seems in a way, irresponsible.

That being said, I actually really respect you ninwa, I just find myself to be one of those people whom enjoy culture+ language as a combined thing.

[ninwa]

That's fair enough. There's a fair bit of "culture" in the language units themselves - many of the articles we read for the French language component, for example, relate to issues of discrimination, racism, the burqa ban and other contemporary issues in France. The language components are not just dry grammar/vocabulary sessions.

I just don't associate VCE English-esque analysis with culture and would not have taken languages if someone had told me what it's like, so I'm providing the information to prospective students now. I do understand that there are a few people who enjoy analysing literature/media etc. too

[vexx]

Why are you just making this now, rather then realising it after first year or so?

[ninwa]

I dunno, stupidity combined with over-optimism?

[vexx]

I dunno, stupidity combined with over-optimism?

haha, fair enough.
i will take your word for it though, even though i wont be going there - good to tell others i suppose.
is this only for the high level courses though? or even in the first levels?

[ninwa]

for all levels unfortunately

Japanese is the only language I know which doesn't have this requirement

[Noblesse]

Don't ever study at Monash.

Fixed.  :angel:

[Fyrefly]

Japanese is the only language I know which doesn't have this requirement

Read: STUDY JAPANESE BECAUSE IT IS AWESOME.

[Mao]

Can I also add that

Don't ever study physics at Monash

EVER

[ninwa]

maybe I should change this to "things not to study at Monash"

[Mao]

^^yes

Also, chemical engineering is pretty bad. The current head of school is the most awesome/deadly guy ever, and he will take a personal/deadly interest in your cohort and set challenging/deadly assignments that cause stress/death. Last I heard, a test/deathtrap was scaled up by 50% because too many people failed/died.

[Cthulhu]

Can I also add that

Don't ever study physics at Monash

EVER

[Fyrefly]

I love you guys.

[TrueTears]

Can I also add that

Don't ever study physics at Monash

EVER