Study Guide

Objectives (course unit)

The aim of the course is to introduce the student to the various dimensions of communication between cultures. The course will show different ways to comprehend cultures according to their deep structures and diverse communication patterns. Issues that create misunderstandings in intercultural interaction will be considered. Through these theoretical and practical observations, another objective of the course will be achieved: development of intercultural skills and competence in diverse multicultural contexts in general and specifically in the field of business.

Learning outcomes of the course unit
After completing the course students will
- be able to understand from more analytical perspective the different ways to comprehend cultures according to their deep structures and diverse communication patterns.
- be aware of the issues that create misunderstandings in intercultural interaction.
- be able to modify own communication style in a culturally sensitive manner.

Content (course unit)

What are the key concepts influencing intercultural communication?
What is the significance of intercultural communication skills in working life and business life?
What are cultural values and what is their impact in intercultural communication?
What are the benefits of diversity management?
What are the potential problems and ethical themes that need to be considered?
What is intercultural competence and how to be interculturally competent?

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2) (course unit)

The student recognizes the main elements that influence intercultural communication in general, but despite of this, their own communication style cannot be described as culturally sensitive. The student recognizes the existing challenges in intercultural work communities.

Assessment criteria, good (3-4) (course unit)

The student works fluently in an adaptable manner with culturally diverse people. They know the cultural characteristics and acknowledge them in their own communication, aiming to common understanding. The student recognizes the elements and significance of intercultural communication in business communication.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5) (course unit)

The student modifies their communication style according to the existing context and takes cultural features into consideration. They know the methods and codes of communication that are appropriate in transferring correct meanings. The student recognizes characteristics of different communication cultures and acts according to them. They observe and recognize cultural similarities and is competent in utilizing this knowledge in their own communication both in general and in the field of business.

Exam schedules

There are no exams. Methods to retake the study module will be discussed with the teachers after the study module.

Assessment methods and criteria

Completing the study module requires the following:
- Active participation in contact classes: there are 7 contact classes in total from which 1 absence is allowed without consequences. If student is absent more than one time, student has to retake the study module.
- Active participation in solving and presenting business cases (in form of presentation or in report): there are 4 cases in total from which 1 absence is allowed. If student is absent from case solving sessions and therefore does not participate in team work, grade from that particular case is graded 0.
The value of cases determining the grade:
Case 1 is valued 10%/100%
Case 2 is valued 10%/100%
Case 3 is valued 30%/100%
Case 4 is valued 50%/100%

Assessment scale

0-5

Teaching methods

Interactive lectures and case method in teams

Learning materials

It will be provided during the study module

Student workload

Contact teaching = 27 h.
Case studies and independent work = 54 h.

Content scheduling

Introduction to Intercultural Communication 11 h.
Verbal and nonverbal communication and culture 12 h.
Cultural Dimention Theories 12 h.
Potential problem in ICC 11 h.
Organisation/ corporate culture and Diversity Management 12 h.
Development of intercultural competence 12 h.
Global business case presantation 10 h.

Completion alternatives

No optional methods