Intercultural communication is everywhere. “Without leaving your own country, you're likely to come into contact with people from a variety of backgrounds…” (Hahn) It can be in the workplace, at home, church, or in the local grocery store. Coming across a foreigner is not an uncommon occurrence in the United States. The borders are open which allows refugees to come to the country legally.
When I was in high school I took a French class. My teacher explained that she had lived in France for a while and told the class about how their culture is very different from American culture. She explained that in America it is rude for two strangers walking past one another would not greet one another with a verbal greeting or at least a smile.
In France, it is rude to smile at another person because to them a smile is like coming on to them. They take it as American girls all want the same dirty thing. If someone didn’t know this they could end up getting propositioned and be in a tough or awkward situation. “Be aware of different etiquette rules or manners: what is polite in one culture may be considered rude in another” (Hahn).
If traveling to another country it would be very wise to learn a little bit about the country before getting there. An individual may never know what law may put them in jail or prison. Just because it seems to be common sense does not mean it truly is. Know the audience and the environment. Be empathetic. When an individual comes across as caring for another person, or they come across that they are at least trying to be patient and understand, all people involved with the conflict will be better off when trying to understand the other person’s perspective. Some things seem to be common sense however common sense should never be assumed especially while dealing with a different culture.
References:
Hahn, M. (n.d.). Ten commandments of intercultural communication. Ezinearticles.com. Retrieved July 27, 2011 from http://ezinearticles.com/?Ten-Commandments-of-Intercultural-Communication&id=120247
Renee, your blog is coming together nicely so far. Here are my suggestions:
ReplyDeleteThe purpose of your blog isn’t clearly laid out anywhere besides in the title of your blog. Perhaps you could write a blurb summarizing your content purpose beneath your title or explain it a little in the “About Me” section. By explaining your purpose you will also help visitors to your blogs get a feel for your intended audience without having to read a post first to figure that out. I assume that your purpose, and content are related to our course assignment and that your classmates are your intended audience, but try to structure you blog in a way that non-COM480 students would be able to navigate and benefit from your blog as well.
The design is great! I love the contrasting color of green and grey. The picture of you (at least I assume that it’s you – perhaps a caption to clarify) and your dog adds a great personal touch to the blog and helps your audience relate more to you, the author, and your posts. What I would suggest design-wise is to add some more texture to the background design of your blog – maybe a pattern or an image? Otherwise, great job! I look forward to seeing the final product!
Please take a look at my blog and let me know what you think: http://meanderingsofmeg.blogspot.com/