Developing Cultural Understanding

by Tiina Matikainen and Carolyn B. Duffy  

Being aware of the differences that exist between cultures and knowing how to act when we are faced with puzzling cross-cultural situations are important skills for harmonious intercultural relations.

Cross-cultural research shows that we can examine all cultures by using a basic taxonomy of cultural behaviors which allows us to see the differences and similarities among cultures.

This article provides students with knowledge and activities to enhance their awareness of cultural patterns among the different cultures of the world.

In the following lesson students will learn about basic attitudes different cultures have toward three cultural value dimensions: the role of the individual in a society, power distance, and time orientation. Students will then apply this knowledge in activities that require them to decide how to act in cross-cultural situations based on the information they have learned about that cultures values.

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Developing Cultural Understanding