COMM 115 Intercultural Communication

Lecture Hours: 4
Credits: 4

Explores the impact of culture on communication. Investigates how elements like language, nonverbal communication, values, beliefs, worldview, and identity impact communication between different cultures and co-cultures. Explores how culturally-based assumptions influence perceptions, behaviors, and communication.

Prerequisite: Placement into WR 115 (or higher), or completion of WR 090 (or higher) with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
Recommended: Placement into WR 121Z (or higher), or completion of WR 115 (or higher) with a grade of C or better.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Identify and explain culture and communication.
Define variables of intercultural communication and theoretical frameworks.
Apply intercultural communication principles, including verbal and nonverbal communication skills, in various cultural contexts.
Use strategies to communicate more effectively and apply theories when communicating with people from cultures other than one’s own.
Increase cultural competency by practicing theories in real life scenarios.

Additional Student Learning Outcomes

Engage in ethical communication processes that accomplish goals.
Respond to the needs of diverse audiences and contexts.
Build and manage relationships.

Additional Cultural Literacy (DPR) Outcome

Identify and analyze complex practices, values, and beliefs and the culturally and historically defined meanings of difference.

Content Outline

Introduction to Intercultural Communication
- Elements of communication models
- Types of communication
- Definition of intercultural communication
- Definitions of culture, co-cultures
- Elements and model of intercultural communication
Underlying Dimensions of Culture
- Family
- Gender roles
- Individualism and collectivism
- Age
- Social skills
- Religion/worldview
- History
Cultural Identity
- Types of identity (e.g. racial, ethnic, gender, national)
- Acquiring and developing identity
- Cultural identity and intercultural communication
- Cultural bias
  - Ethnocentrism
  - Stereotyping
  - Prejudice
  - Discrimination
  - Racism
Cultural Values
- Value dimensions
- Value orientation
- High-context and low-context
Intercultural Communication and Language
- Perception and language
- Language and thought
- Language and culture
- Languages of co-cultures
- Language and stereotypes
Intercultural Communication and Nonverbal Codes
- Understanding nonverbal communication codes
  - Kinesics (body movement, posture, and gestures)
  - Eye contact
  - Facial expression
  - Paralanguage (vocal cues)
  - Proxemics (use of space)
  - Haptics (touch)
  - Appearance
  - Silence
  - Chronemics (use of time)
- Cultural universals and variations in nonverbal communication
Intercultural Communication in a Global World
- Popular culture and intercultural communication
- Conflict and intercultural communication
- Intercultural communication in health care, education, business
Communication in Interpersonal Relationships
- Cultural variations in relationships
- Maintenance of “face”
- Improving intercultural relationships
Cultural Adjustment and Competence
- New culture and culture shock
- New visitors
- Broad sensitivity to differences and similarities
Developing Intercultural Competence