Handbook for Higher Education. Vol. 1, Sociodynamics and the Theory of Mind: Scientific Foundations and Principles in Language Proficiency and Communication

Abstract

The current era is marked by fast-paced, multi-faceted, global, cross-cultural communication on a daily basis, and communicative studies are rightfully part of many programs in higher education. I have taught a number of differently-focused language education programs and have read countless brilliant works on the matter. However, there are several common denominators, as well as there is probably an essence of what the most influential aspects in communication sciences are, that should be considered and respected in interdisciplinary domains. This book aims to serve as a resource for what I consider the essential theories and concepts, that crucially contribute to the broader domain of language proficiency. These selections are based on my personal experience in educative environments, and there are certainly a whole lot more excellent frameworks and concepts on the topic. The chosen content reflects a blend of theoretical knowledge and equally its practical applicability, hence the term "handbook" - attempting to integrate the essential insights from psychology, rhetoric and cultural studies, as well as pragmatics and discourse analysis. While it is certainly meant to be material especially tailored to educators and students, I deliberately tried to maintain a digestible language throughout this work, so any interested reader would have the opportunity to draw their conclusions and understand the key takeaways. This volume is about Social Dynamics and the Theory of Mind.