Cross-Cultural Communication

About

This module is aimed at students who are planning to work in international teams or are considering an international career.

It provides you with background knowledge of different cultural models and approaches that impact people’s behaviour in a professional setting.

The module will raise your awareness of potential areas of cultural differences and ways to improve your intercultural communication ability.

It considers a range of professional skills and situations from intercultural perspectives to prepare you for confident communication in work- or study-related settings.

The module incorporates theoretical input, practical tasks, case studies, quizzes, video materials and discussions.

Week one
National and personal characteristics
What makes cultures different: aspects and approaches
Classification of cultures
Comparing cultures (practical task)

Week two
Small talk and building rapport
Multicultural teams: challenges and communication strategies
International meetings and negotiations
Leadership and decision-making
Guided tour of the City of London (the Square Mile)

Week three
International English: how to make yourself understood
Body language
What is culture: overview and summary

Course leader

Elena Gray

Course aim

This module aims to:

- Facilitate your communication with representatives of different cultures in academic and professional environments.
- Familiarise you with existing cultural classifications and models.
- Raise your awareness of potential areas of cultural difference and provide practical recommendations to improve intercultural understanding, increase your chances of successful communication, and help you to avoid cultural mistakes and potential conflicts.
- Develop your professional communication skills, such as participating effectively in meetings and discussions.
- Encourage you to develop a critical understanding and appreciation of cultural norms and standards, while questioning cultural stereotypes.
- Examine the role of English as an international working language and introduce strategies to adapt it to achieve successful interaction.

Fee info