Intercultural Communication 2600-DB,GM,IF-IC
The following Intercultural Communication course constitutes an introduction to the fundamental concepts, theories, and topics connected to communication amongst cultures. One of its main aims is to help students to have a better understanding of their own cultural identities and how the values, beliefs, traditions, and ethnicities that they hold and represent influence the ways in which they communicate with others. Additionally, the course will aid students with the development of proper sensitivity and behavior most appropriate to the setting.
1. Introduction to intercultural communication & the meaning
of culture
a. Introduction to the course, assessment methods and grading system
b. Global facts on culture
c. What is intercultural communication?
d. Culture – definition and elements
e. Sources of culture
f. Iceberg of culture
g. Values, beliefs, and behaviors
2. Intercultural communication
a. Assumption of similarities (world example, perception)
b. Tendency to evaluate
c. Stereotypes and prejudices
3. Intercultural communication misunderstandings
a. Case studies
4. Language differences (verbal and nonverbal)
a. Verbal and nonverbal communication
b. Cross-Cultural Communication Styles
c. Language and Ethnic Identity
5. The cultural context, culture as the “software of mind” (by G. Hofstede & three layers of culture (by F. Trompenaars)
a. Cultural theories - G. Hofstede & F. Trompenaars
6. Organizational culture & IC in business environment
a. Edward Schein’s Three Levels of Organizational Culture
b. Intercultural Management
c. Management Practices Across Cultures
d. Savoir-vivre
7. Intercultural communication in the context of celebration and traditions
a. Religious traditions
b. Birthday celebrations
c. Culture-specific traditions
8. Student presentations
a. Project presentations
b. Short commentary on each presentation
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of the course, each Student should have had developed intercultural communication competence. That is, inter alia, the ability to:
- communicate in various and unfamiliar cultural settings;
- describe what culture means and what defines it;
- recognize the influence of culture on communication;
- identify reasons for behaviors based on cultural differences;
- understand how culture influences human self-perception;
- list many different cultural traditions and their meaning;
- grasp the concept of organizational culture and its elements;
- indicate and make use of differences in running
business in different cultures;
- take into account multiple interests and worldviews in
the decision making process.
Assessment criteria
Final grade breakdown:
1. Class activities and active participation (25%)
2. Short tests and/or case studies during class sessions (25%)
3. Final group project (50%): preparation of a material about cultural differences and misunderstandings
Students are allowed to have one absence during the entire semester.
Examination: Points gathered during the course