Blog Post#4

For this post, consider the section entitled Fostering Intercultural Communication. Describe in writing the intercultural scenario that you observed for Task 2.3 and present an interpretation in light of your understanding of culture and the fundamentals of effective communication.

Task 2.3
• Choose an intercultural situation* (possibly a cultural conflict) and observe/study the interaction of people in that context for 10 to 20 minutes, or reflect upon a scenario from your past experience.
• Use the following four steps to assess the situation and to take notes.

2.3.1 Describe

What was the setting? Where did the interaction occur? What did you see and hear? Who were the main characters? How were these characters interacting? Was there a conflict, and if there was, what was it? What was the outcome? Be as literal as possible. (“She became frustrated and left the room, closing the door loudly.”)

2.3.2 Interpret

Write down, frankly and clearly, what your emotional reactions to the situation were. In light of your understanding of cultural values, beliefs and norms, how would you interpret what you saw?


2.3.3 Envisage

Imagine the possible interpretations that those people involved in the situation might have. You can ask someone more familiar with that cultural group what these interpretations might be, or check them out with the people directly.

2.3.4 Evaluate

Test the accuracy of your observations and conclusions with the persons involved or with some other sources that have relevant cultural knowledge.