Intercultural Communication

 
 Tittle  Intercultural Communication
 Department  International Economics
 Type (compulsory/optional)  Optional
 Cycle (first/second)  Second Cycle
 Semester when the component is delivered  2-nd semester
 Course description  The cases typically take the form of descriptions of so-called critical incidents, which are analysed in terms of the different values and viewpoints which underlie the described behaviors of the interactants. The study of critical incidents also provides an opportunity to take into account other than purely cultural factors, which also affect the success or failure of cooperation in projects. The amount of trust, manifestations of commitment and so on also contribute to the outcome, and this aspect of intercultural relations must not be ignored.
The issue of corporate social responsibility is investigated as an area in which cultural factors play a role, but which is also based on universal human social qualities, such as solidarity with, and support for others, as well as responsibility for the impact specific behaviors have on their lives. As such it enables students to develop their views on, and insights into the significance of cultural factors in a complex issue. 
 Course content
Module 1: Theoretical Foundations of Intercultural Communication
Topic 1. Subject of Intercultural communication as a sphere of scientific knowledge and academic disciplines.
Topic 2. The concept and essence of intercultural communication. The main theories of intercultural communication.
Topic 3. Ways of accepting other cultures.
Module 2: Practical aspects of intercultural communication
Topic 4. Types, models of intercultural communication.
Topic 5. The problem of understanding in intercultural communication. Intercultural conflicts and possible solutions.
Topic 6. Results of intercultural communication.
 Learning outcomes The student should know:
The students can:
- explain concepts of "culture” and its various manifestations.
- explain types of cultural research and their advantages and disadvantages.
- explain major intercultural research projects.
The students are able to analyze and assess descriptions of culturally based differences in:
- management styles and notions of leadership
- teamwork styles
- time management
- role of genders
- organizational communication procedures, esp. meetings
- communication styles in a given context in the course.
Students should be able to:
- analyze and assess descriptions of culturally based differences in management styles and notions of leadership;
- teamwork styles;
- time management;
- role of genders;
- organizational communication procedures, esp. Meetings;
- communication styles;
- develop communication in an inter-cultural project management context;
- dealing with culturally different notions of situational context, the role of culture, personality, role performances (based on Matsumoto’s context model);
- dealing with culturally different notions of leadership, teamwork and co-operation, time management, communication styles;
- investigating critical incidents and their underlying causes in an informed and effective manner;
- devising strategies to cope with intercultural differences.
Competencies:
- the ability to analyze and evaluate the differences of cultures based on styles of leadership and communication, team management, gender roles;
- ability to develop relationships in the context of intercultural project management, develop strategies for tackling cross-cultural differences
 Contact hours (lectures/seminars)

 15/15
 
Prerequisites

 Economics
 Number of ECTS credits allocated

3 credits