International Study Programmes
Humanities
Rahim Bin Kassim from Singapore
Discourse and Argumentation Studies (MA)
Why Discourse and Argumentation Studies?
I believe in permanent learning. I decided to pursue my Master's in Argumentation because I wanted to challenge myself to do something different from Linguistics. I did some research on the internet regarding programmes in argumentation and critical discussion, and everything pointed to the University of Amsterdam. Europe, however, is not a popular study destination for Singaporeans. Nevertheless, I decided to give it a go because the idea of being in a new place is both challenging and exhilarating. The University of Amsterdam is where the theory of pragma-dialectic all begins. I enjoy the fact that even though the programme is highly theoretical, you are still able to use argumentation in real life. You get a better understanding of daily conventional discourse, and how people argue. Here, my preconceived ideas of standpoints and rhetoric are given a more academic approach. After my MA I want to continue teaching and possibly venture more into argumentation studies.
About the programme and the University of Amsterdam
I am really impressed with the programme. While the three modules I took during the first semester were very theoretical, the second semester was markedly different. We get to look at articles by famous orators - which I find interesting - and to put theory into practice. In our programme you meet the people who developed the theories. Another interesting thing about the programme is the colloquium, which is conducted once every two weeks. We get to listen to ideas of students and their research proposals and occasionally get to hear from guest lecturers from different universities. There is a small group of students here. We also get to know students of the research MA in Rhetoric, Argumentation and Philosophy and go for drinks or dine together. As for the University, the buildings are spread throughout the city. The libraries and computer facilities are both good with easy access to plenty of computers.
About Amsterdam and the Netherlands
The weather is a lot colder than I had expected. I had to buy a lot of warm clothes when I came here. Although I enjoy the cold weather and the changing seasons, I really miss the tropical heat. Although the city of Amsterdam looks very busy, it is still easily accessible. The ‘grachten’ (canals) are a unique feature of Amsterdam. The buildings are so beautiful and the city has an air of romance. As for the cuisine, there is no problem getting food from different cultures. I have tried the traditional Dutch food like boerenkool and zuurkool, which I like.
Would you recommend this programme to prospective students
I would definitely recommend this programme to students who are interested in argumentation. I think if you look at argumentation from a broader perspective, you can use it in many areas like law, journalism and teaching. Argumentation is even being used in advertising. It is also of course a great programme for people who wish to pursue a PhD.
For prospective students
Get winter coats! The wind can be very cold. As for the course, be open-minded because the first few months are really theoretical. However, as time goes on you will find that it is very beneficial because of its many applications. One year is a very short time. Enjoy the learning process, learn more about Amsterdam and about the people. In short, have fun learning!