Intercultural Communication Competency
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| INCM3090 | School of International Communications | 3 | 20 | Autumn China |
- Code
- INCM3090
- School
- School of International Communications
- Level
- 3
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn China
Summary
The study of Intercultural Communication (IC) has relevance for many aspects of personal, academic, and professional life, and can be approached from many perspectives. On this course, the conceptual core for understanding IC is presented as framed by a number of key questions (e.g. What is culture? What is communication? What is intercultural communication? What is cultural identity? What is cultural learning? What is cultural awareness? What is ‘languaculture’? What is intercultural (communicative) competence? What is otherisation? What is intercultural communication education and training? These questions are approached using a critical lens in keeping with recent moves in the field. The conceptual framework presented in this introductory course is closely linked to ‘Explorations in Intercultural Thinking’ which provides practice in using this framework to view other relevant areas.
Please note: This module is assessed at the end of Autumn semester. First sit/ Re-sit exams are scheduled normally in the summer and can take the same form as the missing/ failed component of the assessment (exam, essay etc.) or other form, as decided by the School.
Target Students
Level 3 Undergraduate Students
Assessment
- 50% Report 1: 3000 words
- 50% Coursework 1: 2500 words
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
1) provide students with a thorough conceptual foundation for their developing understandings of intercultural communication as a phenomenon, as an area of study, as an area of personal activity, and as an area of training and professional practice;2) encourage students to engage critically with the default ‘large culture’ approach to culture, cultural difference and intercultural communication;3) enable students to reflect systematically on their own cultural identities, background, and cultural and intercultural experiences;4) invite students to consider the implications of intercultural theorising for real world contexts of one sort or another (e.g. professional, academic, national, personal).Learning Outcomes
Cultural Awareness Development and Global Thinking (Knowledge and Understanding):
- Students will demonstrate an increased awareness and appreciation of diverse cultures, encompassing the understanding of concepts such as cultural identity, 'languaculture,' and cultural learning. In parallel, students will be able to comprehend the principles of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), gaining insights into how these principles significantly contribute to fostering a sense of belonging across diverse cultural contexts.
Critical Thinking in Intercultural Communication (Intellectual Skills):
- Students will develop critical thinking skills to analyse and evaluate the complexities of intercultural communication, applying a critical lens to fundamental questions about culture and communication.
Intercultural Competence Enhancement (Practical and Professional Skills):
- Students will gain proficiency in intercultural communication competence, incorporating theoretical knowledge into practical scenarios, fostering effective communication across diverse cultural contexts.
Understanding Otherization (Knowledge and Understanding):
- Students will explore the concept of otherization and its impact on intercultural communication, critically examining how it influences perceptions and interactions between individuals and groups.
Application of Conceptual Framework (Intellectual Skills):
- Students will apply the conceptual framework presented in the course to analyse and interpret real-world examples of intercultural communication, demonstrating an ability to connect theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
Effective Communication Strategies (Practical and Professional Skills):
- Students will develop and employ effective communication strategies in intercultural contexts, demonstrating the ability to adapt communication styles, navigate cultural differences, and resolve potential misunderstandings.
Conveners
- Mr Thomas WHYKE