Intercultural communication can be defined as the study of cultural identity, difference, and similarity as constructed through discourse, i.e., different ways of speaking, writing, and other forms of social action. In the ever-changing world defined by the restructuring of economic, social, and cultural relations, transnational migration, tourism, overseas studies, and global media, more and more people from different backgrounds come into contact with one another. Their communication faces many challenges which include the linguistic challenges of language learning, the discursive challenges of stereotyping, and the social challenges of equal work opportunities, inclusion, and justice. This course provides a critical understanding of intercultural communication from discourse analytic and sociolinguistic perspectives and demonstrates how people in different situations of intercultural contact position themselves linguistically and discursively, and how the linguistic codes and varieties they speak and write give them access (or not) to different resources such as mobility, educational opportunities, jobs, and so on. The notions of ‘sameness’ and ‘difference’ will be critically examined. Throughout the course, we will reflect on the underlying language ideologies (i.e., assumptions and beliefs about language) that normalise and naturalise the views we hold of ourselves and other people. We ask to what extent we can assume culture to be synonymous with language and various discursive identities, and how acts of intercultural communication are performed or represented in different domains such as international business, marketing, and interpersonal relations.

 

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Understand terms, concepts, and theories relating to intercultural communication
2. Appreciate differences in cultural values, norms, and practices
3. Develop their sensitivity to cultural differences and similarities
4. Equip themselves with practical skills to communicate effectively in diverse intercultural contexts, such as intercultural conflict management;
5. Foster their communication competence and confidence in interacting with people from different cultures and backgrounds, and prepare themselves for future careers in multicultural settings.

 

The course is comprised of weekly lectures/seminars.