Hungarian Culture and Language - BMEGT60W63M

The aim of the lecture series is to introduce foreign students to the history, cultural heritage and traditions of Hungarian people, as well as the country’s natural features and geographical characteristics. In order to help students to have a better understanding of Hungary’s current politics and economy, the lectures discuss Hungarian history from the arrival to the Carpathian basin in 896 to the present time.

1. •The students learn about the key data and facts (e.g. national symbols, population, language, religion, currency, Hungarikums, geographical location, economic characteristics).
2. They will learn about the largest cities and typical terrains of the country.
3. They will become familiar with the Hungarian political system (e.g. roles of the prime minister, head of state and Parliament, Constitutional Court, electoral system).
4. They will understand the most vital issues of Hungarian society (inequalities, population decrease, large families, unemployment, poverty, ethnic groups and minorities).
5. They will get an insight into architectural styles, films and works of arts, religious and cultural traditions associated with the Hungarian people.

1. By comparing Hungarian culture with that of their home country, they will recognise the similarities and the differences.
2. They will be able to place key historical events along a timeline and draw logical conclusions from them regarding the current social, political and economic situation.

1. They will strive to expand the knowledge gained throughout the course and visit cultural sights to get more hands-on experiences.
2. They will try to accept the significance of folk traditions rooted in ancient Hungarian culture (e.g. busójárás) even if these may seem strange to them.
3. They will become more open to Hungarian language and culture.

1. Having learnt about Hungary’s cultural values and traditions, they will be able to cooperate with Hungarian students and professors more easily.

During the learning process students often work in pairs or groups to help them get to know their peers from other cultural backgrounds. This way we improve their level of tolerance, inclusion and acceptance.

• A témák feldolgozásához előkészített videós és írott anyagok, internetes források. - Video and written materials, internet sources to be used for the various topics.

Evaluation comprises of regular attendance, (30% of lessons can be skipped), active participation in lessons, and completing and submitting assignments and tests..

In line with the general characteristics of teaching foreign languages, assessment will be applied with a process ap-proach. During the course participants complete communications tasks in the classes, as well as minor presentations and projects

• assignments and tests: 100

as laid down in the BME Code of Studies

• Data and facts about Hungary (national symbols, regions, population, famous Hungarians, language, religion, currency, Hungarikums) • Main national holidays and the related historical events and folk traditions • Hungary’s geography, climate, hydrography, terrain, mineral resources • The cornerstones of Hungarian history • Administrative bodies in Hungary • Religious and cultural heritage of Hungary and Budapest, sports and leisure centres • The role of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, museums, music institutions, universities, the film industry and cafés in Hungary’s intellectual scene • The structure, leading sectors and problems of Hungarian economy after the regime change. • Hungary’s foreign relations • Hungary’s family support system