Contemporary migration and its socio-economic consequences 1900-3-WMI-GL-W
The aim of the course is to deepen students’ understanding of the mobility of Europe’s inhabitants and of international migration to and within Europe. The course examines migration not only as a social and spatial process, but also as one of the most important topics in contemporary public debate. Particular attention is devoted to why migration so often evokes strong emotions, how myths and simplifications regarding migrants and refugees arise, and how the media, politics, and popular culture influence the public perception of migration.
The course covers contemporary migration patterns, the changing migration map of Europe, European states’ responses to so-called migration crises, and migrant integration policies. An important part of the course involves analyzing the ways in which migration, integration, and refugees are discussed: from the language of the media and political debates to film, comics, song lyrics, and other short online formats. Students learn to recognize when data and facts are simplified, omitted, or replaced by emotional narratives and imagery.
The course also includes an analysis of interviews and statements by people with migration experience. This allows us to contrast dominant media and political narratives with the perspectives of migrants themselves and to highlight the difference between talking about migration and listening to those who experience it.
The course combines elements of a lecture, a seminar, and a workshop. Participation in the course requires regular preparation, including reading assigned texts (including those in English at the B2 level), reviewing designated visual materials, and actively participating in discussions and analytical tasks.
Student workload: 2 ECTS = 2 × 25h = 50h (in direct contact 1 ECTS)
(N) - work in direct contact with the teacher,
(S) - student's own (independent) work.
Classes (lecture) = 15h (N)
Preparation for the next class (serching for data, articles, getting familiar with the literature doing exercises) 3h/week = 21 h (S)
Discussing completed homework assignments = 8 h (N)
Preparation of the project at the end of the class = 6h (S)
TOTAL = approx. 50h
Course coordinators
Type of course
Mode
Learning outcomes
Key effects: K_W05, K_W11, K_W12 K_U01, K_U04
Specialty effects: S2_W03, S2_W05, S2_W11, S2_W13, S2_W14, S2_U04, S4_U07, S2_K01, S2_K02, S2_K06
Upon completion of the course, the student:
Knowledge
Knows and understands:
- features of contemporary migration processes in Europe
- challenges and benefits of international migration
- the diverse contexts of migration research
- is able to interpret and analyze content in available sources on migration
- understands the importance of the media in creating attitudes towards migration
Skills
Can:
- critically use scientific literature and other sources in foreign languages
- transfer knowledge to different audiences
Competences/attitudes:
The course shapes the attitude of self-deduction, openness to cultural diversity and acceptance of the rules of behaviour resulting from respect and kindness towards representatives of other cultures.
Assessment criteria
Class participation (completing assignments during class, participating in discussions)
Important: Attendance is mandatory.
Practical placement
-
Bibliography
Amelina A., Horvath K., Meeus B. (eds.), 2016, An Anthology of Migration and Social Transformation: European Perspectives, Springer — selected parts.
Benton M., Ahad A., 2019, Breaking New Ground: Ten Ideas to Revamp Integration Policy in Europe, Migration Policy Institute — report.
Benton M., Embiricos A., 2019, Doing More with Less: A New Toolkit for Integration Policy, Migration Policy Institute — report.
Benton M., Patuzzi L., 2018, Jobs in 2028: How Will Changing Labour Markets Affect Immigrant Integration in Europe?, Migration Policy Institute — report.
Garcés-Mascareñas B., Penninx R. (eds.), 2016, Integration Processes and Policies in Europe: Contexts, Levels and Actors, Springer — selected parts.
Geiger M., Pécoud A. (eds.), 2010, The Politics of International Migration Management, Palgrave Macmillan, New York — selected parts.
Improving the Responses to the Migration and Refugee Crisis in Europe, 2016, Vision Europe Summit, Lisbon — report.
King R., Okólski M., 2018, Diverse, Fragile and Fragmented: The New Map of European Migration, Central and Eastern European Migration Review.
Martiniello M., Rath J. (eds.), 2010, Selected Studies in International Migration and Immigrant Incorporation, Amsterdam University Press, Amsterdam — selected parts.
Pastore F., Ponzo I. (eds.), 2016, Inter-group Relations and Migrant Integration in European Cities: Changing Neighbourhoods, Springer — selected parts.