Intercultural Communication and Cross-Cultural ManagementLaajuus (5 op)

Osaamistavoitteet

The student is more aware of his or her own cultural distinctiveness, that of others, and is more sensitive to and empathetic toward the needs of others. Insights and skills are developed that will help to facilitate the development of intercultural competence.

Sisältö

Globalization processes, transnational commerce and the increasing ethnic and cultural diversity in the workplace requires managers to become more aware of and sensitive to the role that culture plays in all aspects of modern life. This course is designed to:
1. Increase the student's understanding of the role of culture and its effects on their relationships with distinctive others, with an emphasis on its impact on business practices.
2. To examine theoretical frameworks, such as cultural level taxonomies, social behavior markers, communication styles and verbal / nonverbal semiotic codes, that are employed in the study of culture.
3. To develop critical thinking skills in the study of culture, particularly regarding the use of national culture as a unit of analysis as contrasted with ethnographic perspectives.
4. To develop a broader awareness of others by examining cultural characteristics as portrayed in popular culture (literature, music and film).
5. To develop an awareness of how cultural differences can be viewed positively in international business contexts by examining culture from a knowledge management perspective.

Esitietovaatimukset

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Arviointikriteerit, tyydyttävä (1)

The students are assigned a take-home examination that emphasizes critical thinking skills, allows them to synthesize their experiences, readings and notes, and also allows them to discuss the issues studied among their cohorts. A take-home exam format also allows for additional time to prepare answers in English, which for most of the students is a second or even third language.