Problems in Intercultural Communication
Course Description and Objectives
This course provides the basis for understanding potential problems of intercultural communication that arise in interactions between people from different cultures. As Samovar notes, complex nature of human behavior produces many communication problems-perhaps more than the problems addressed in this course. It is for this reason that we will explore how diverse cultural orientations influence the way we perceive and interact with an increasingly culturally diverse world. The overall purpose of this class is to understand causes of intercultural conflicts in different communication settings (interpersonal, small group, school, workplace and global) and how to manage them effectively.
1. Problems of Intercultural Communication
You will learn about factors that explain problems of intercultural communication and ways to improve intercultural interactions. Additionally, key terms in the course will be defined. We will also consider pedagogical approaches relevant to helping students to acquire knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to become a competent intercultural communicator.
2. Theorizing Intercultural Conflict
You will learn the theories and concepts basic to the understanding of intercultural conflicts that arise when people from diverse cultures interact.
3. Service-Learning Pedagogy
The course uses service learning pedagogy to allow you an opportunity to gain a critical perspective on local and global issues and in particular, to address problems ensuing from increasing cultural diversity in St. Cloud.
4. Intercultural Conflicts in Diverse contexts
Interpersonal relationships-You will learn to understand elements that affect effective interpersonal communication between people from different cultures.
School setting- You will learn about challenges of cultural diversity as you engage in experiential learning with local High school students from diverse cultural backgrounds
Diverse work groups’ setting- You will learn about how to work effectively in a groups with people from diverse cultures
Workplace setting- You will learn about managing effective managers-employees relations in a diverse workplace
5. Becoming Competent in managing intercultural conflicts
You will have an opportunity to critically reflect on lessons learned about problems in intercultural communication and importance of service learning as a pedagogical approach that generates new knowledge and develops skills that help you to effectively communicate in diverse communication settings.
Subject: Problems in Intercultural Communication 
Mon Apr 21, 2014 10:24 pm
