Intercultural Communication

INTRODUCTION:

The aim of this course is to increase student understanding and awareness of the impact of our differences on the way we communicate and receive messages.

OBJECTIVES:

The main differences the course focuses on are nationality, race, class, gender and religion. We will study and observe how different identities under those categories affect people’s perceptions of themselves as individuals, themselves within their groups, themselves within other groups, and how those perceptions affect the way they communicate and interpret messages. In response to the changes in the way we communicate due to communication, the course will also focus on the impact of technology on intercultural communication as well as the ways that different cultures utilize the various forms of social media platforms. In order to do all of this and ensure that the class is dynamic, we will have diverse assignments and incorporate a variety of formats for class including films, power point, Youtube videos, articles, texts and short trips.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

At the end of this course, students will be able to identify different forms of communication and the elements influencing the type of communication used and reception of messages. With that information, students will be able to effectively serve as exceptional cross-cultural communicators.

CONTENTS:

1. Theoretical Classes

     - Most classes will consist of presentation of text theory, videos and discussion.

2. Guest Lecturers

     - Professionals from pertinent fields will speak then have discussions with the class.

3. Field Trips

     - We will go to cultural sites and have optional visits to restaurants and museums.

4. Presentations

     - Each student will make a presentation on their own culture