CMST& 240 - Intercultural Communication

1. Understand the influence of culture on communication, specifically: Identifying how personal and cultural values shape cultural perspectives; Characterizing the communication styles of a culture in terms of language, nonverbal communication, and listening patterns; Analyzing societal roles and relationships within and between cultures; Using empathy to bridge differences in personal and cultural values and build relationships with others; Understanding the unique roles of the individual in communicating within one’s own culture and between cultures.
2. Develop critical thinking skills by applying intercultural learning, specifically: Listening actively and with cultural sensitivity; Applying critical thinking skills to group or individual projects; Adapting communication appropriately in intercultural situations; Integrating intercultural learning in out-of-class situations.
3. Demonstrate basic intercultural communication skills, including: Identifying and explaining the model, components, conditions, and common terminology of communication and culture; Using intellectual frameworks to describe and understand communication between culturally diverse individuals and groups; Building confidence in communicating verbally, nonverbally, in small groups, and before the class; Describing personal and/or social obstacles to effective intercultural relationships and applying appropriate techniques to improve intercultural communication; Applying textbook and supplemental reading assignments and library and/or technological research to individual and/or group projects.

1. Definitions and terminology of intercultural communication
2. Intercultural relationships and contexts
3. Language and nonverbal barriers
4. Cultural patterns (values, beliefs, norms)
5. Cultural biases
6. Differences in cultural perspectives