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Bastian Küntzel

When you are working in a group, where there are people from different backgrounds it is common that conflict can occur, or that people don't input for fear of causing conflict. This course will teach you how to maximise the outputs of culturally diverse working environments and extract the full benefits of diversity.

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When you are working in a group, where there are people from different backgrounds it is common that conflict can occur, or that people don't input for fear of causing conflict. This course will teach you how to maximise the outputs of culturally diverse working environments and extract the full benefits of diversity.

We will explore the concept of culture and it's powerful impact on how humans perceive the world. We'll look at different dimensions of cultural diversity and how they impact our priorities, perceptions and how they can cause mis-understandings. After a short excursion to some of the brain science that further manifests the power of culture as a filter for reality, we'll look at different cases and what we can do to communicate more effectively in environments that are saturated with cultural diversity in order to create something remarkable. Finally, I'll teach you two simple methods to operationalise these insights practically in your work. In the end, I will highlights further reading materials that students who wish to go deeper can read and study.

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What's inside

Learning objective

After the course, students will be able to better identify their own cultural set up and be able to see, address and constructively work with cultural diversity.

Syllabus

The river as a metaphor for culture
Introduction
Lenses as a metaphor for culture
The value and challenge of diversity
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Taught by Bastian Küntzel, an expert in this field
Delves into advanced theories about human interaction
Covers various approaches to handling conflict and misunderstanding
Requires significant background knowledge in human behavior

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Reviews summary

Practical intercultural communication for professionals

According to students, this course offers a largely positive and highly practical approach to intercultural communication. Learners frequently highlight the immediate applicability of key frameworks, especially the Perception, Interpretation, Evaluation (PIE) model and the 'Purple Space' concept, which are praised as game-changers for navigating culturally diverse environments. Many found the instructor's delivery engaging and the case studies highly relatable, providing a solid foundation. While some experienced learners noted that initial content on cultural dimensions felt basic, the course is generally seen as an excellent starting point for professionals seeking to improve their communication skills in a globalized world.
The brain science module is interesting but less integrated.
"I found the brain science section a bit brief and perhaps not as directly actionable as the later practical methods..."
"The neuroscience part was a nice addition, though it didn't feel fully integrated with the practical applications."
"The brain science section felt a bit out of place for me."
Provides a solid basis for those new to intercultural concepts.
"A very solid introduction to intercultural communication. The metaphors for culture were a great way to start..."
"It provides a solid foundation as promised."
"Solid content for beginners. The course does a good job of laying out the fundamentals of intercultural communication."
Instructor effectively explains complex topics with passion.
"The instructor's delivery was engaging, and the case studies... really brought the theories to life."
"The instructor clearly has deep knowledge and passion for the subject."
"I think the instructor did a great job making abstract concepts understandable."
Offers actionable strategies for immediate real-world application.
"The 'Purple Space' concept and 'Perception, Interpretation, Evaluation' framework are incredibly practical and I've already started applying them in my team meetings."
"The practical methods like PIE and Purple Space are game-changers. I finally feel equipped to handle cultural misunderstandings at work with more confidence."
"Highly practical and immediately applicable! This course exceeded my expectations. The 'Purple Space' method is genius!"
Early sections may feel basic for those with prior exposure.
"The course has good intentions, but some parts felt a bit basic for someone with prior exposure to cultural studies."
"Honestly, I found parts of this course a bit simplistic... don't expect deep dives if you already have some background."
"Good for a basic overview, but not for advanced learners."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Solid Foundations in Intercultural Communication with these activities:
Intercultural Communication Training Modules
Enhance your understanding of specific intercultural communication skills and strategies.
Show steps
  • Identify online platforms or resources that offer guided tutorials on intercultural communication.
  • Select modules that align with your learning goals and areas for improvement.
  • Follow the instructions provided in each module, completing exercises and simulations.
  • Reflect on the concepts and techniques introduced in the modules.
  • Apply your newfound knowledge and skills in real-life interactions with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Hofstede's Culture's Consequences
Reinforce your understanding about different dimensions of cultural diversity by reviewing empirical research on the topic.
Show steps
  • Purchase a copy of the book from a retailer or online.
  • Create a schedule that will allow you to finish the book within the next 15 days.
  • Prepare your study materials, such as a notebook and a pen.
  • Begin reading the book's first chapter.
  • At the end of each chapter, summarize the key insights that you have learned in your notebook.
Cultural Exchange Sessions
Engage in discussions and share experiences with peers from different cultural backgrounds.
Show steps
  • Reach out to classmates or connect with individuals from diverse cultures.
  • Set up virtual or in-person meetings to facilitate discussions.
  • Prepare questions or topics to initiate conversations about cultural differences.
  • Actively listen and engage with perspectives, experiences, and insights shared by others.
  • Reflect on your own cultural background and how it shapes your perceptions and communication style.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Thinking, Fast and Slow
Improve your decision-making skills and enhance self-awareness by delving into the fascinating world of cognitive biases and heuristics.
Show steps
  • Ensure you have a copy of the book or access to the online version.
  • Dedicate approximately 20 minutes each day to reading the book.
  • Take notes and highlight key concepts as you read each chapter.
  • Reflect on how the ideas discussed relate to your own experiences and decision-making tendencies.
  • Engage in discussions or connect with other learners to share perspectives and insights.
International Collaboration Project
Engage in a project that involves collaborating with individuals from different cultural backgrounds.
Show steps
  • Identify a project idea that can benefit from diverse perspectives and cross-cultural collaboration.
  • Form a team of individuals with complementary skills and cultural backgrounds.
  • Develop a project plan that outlines communication strategies, timelines, and deliverables.
  • Regularly communicate with your team members, using appropriate communication tools and channels.
  • Actively seek to understand and appreciate cultural differences within the team and strive for inclusive decision-making.
Cross-Cultural Communication Plan
Develop a plan that outlines strategies for effective communication and collaboration within diverse cultural contexts.
Show steps
  • Identify the specific cultural contexts you need to address.
  • Research cultural norms, values, and communication styles relevant to each context.
  • Outline specific communication strategies to accommodate cultural differences.
  • Include strategies for mitigating potential misunderstandings and conflict.
  • Develop a plan for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of your communication approach.
Cultural Sensitivity Training materials
Develop a comprehensive training resource that addresses cultural sensitivity and inclusivity.
Show steps
  • Gather information and resources on best practices for cultural sensitivity training.
  • Identify the target audience and their specific training needs.
  • Develop interactive content, activities, and case studies that promote understanding and empathy.
  • Incorporate strategies for creating a safe and inclusive learning environment.
  • Proofread and refine your training materials to ensure clarity and effectiveness.

Career center

Learners who complete Solid Foundations in Intercultural Communication will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 45 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Solid Foundations in Intercultural Communication.
This comprehensive handbook provides a state-of-the-art overview of intercultural training, covering topics such as theory, research, and practice.
Provides a comprehensive overview of intercultural competence, including models, theories, and practical strategies.
Highly regarded resource for understanding national cultural differences and their impact on business and communication. It provides a practical framework for categorizing cultures and offers insights into navigating cross-cultural interactions effectively. It is particularly useful for those seeking to apply cross-cultural understanding in a professional context and is often recommended for business professionals and students alike.
Is an excellent starting point for anyone new to the concept of neuroplasticity. It uses compelling case studies to illustrate the brain's ability to change and adapt throughout life, making complex scientific ideas accessible and engaging. It provides a broad understanding of the topic and is highly recommended for beginners and general readers.
A follow-up to 'The Brain That Changes Itself,' this book explores natural and non-invasive therapies that harness neuroplasticity to promote healing from various conditions. It provides further examples of the brain's remarkable capacity for change and is relevant for those interested in therapeutic applications.
Focuses on the contemporary and critical topic of implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in a global context. It addresses the complexities of navigating DEI across different cultures and provides a framework for systemic change. This is highly relevant for professionals in HR and leadership roles in multinational corporations.
Focuses on developing cultural intelligence (CQ), a crucial capability for effective leadership in diverse and global contexts. It provides a practical model and strategies for improving CQ, making it highly relevant for students and professionals aiming to enhance their cross-cultural leadership skills. The book offers a contemporary perspective on navigating cultural complexity.
This seminal book examines the impact of trauma on the brain and body and explores various therapeutic approaches, including those that leverage neuroplasticity, to promote healing. It is highly relevant for understanding the connection between trauma and neuroplasticity, a topic mentioned in the course list.
Written by a leading researcher in neuroplasticity, this book explains how the brain rewires itself and how individuals can take control of this process. It offers practical guidance for improving brain function at any age and is valuable for gaining a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of neuroplasticity and its applications in daily life.
This comprehensive handbook brings together leading scholars to provide an in-depth exploration of intercultural competence. It covers theoretical frameworks, research, and practical applications, making it an essential reference for researchers, graduate students, and practitioners. While dense, it offers a thorough examination of the topic.
Explores the intersection of inclusive leadership and cross-cultural effectiveness. It provides practical guidance and case studies on leading diverse teams and fostering inclusion across different cultural contexts. It valuable resource for leaders and managers in today's globalized workplace.
Daniel Siegel introduces the concept of 'mindsight,' integrating brain science with psychotherapy. explores how understanding the mind's workings can lead to positive changes in the brain and in relationships. It's valuable for those interested in the interpersonal and psychological aspects of neuroplasticity.
A foundational text in cross-cultural studies, this book introduces Hofstede's influential cultural dimensions framework, providing a basis for understanding national cultural differences. While an older publication, its concepts are still widely referenced and provide essential background knowledge for anyone studying cross-cultural communication. It classic text often used in academic settings.
Provides practical guidance on how to adjust one's behavior in different cultural contexts while remaining authentic. It addresses the challenges of navigating unfamiliar cultural norms and offers strategies for developing 'global dexterity.' This highly practical book for anyone working or living in a multicultural environment.
Barbara Arrowsmith-Young shares her personal journey of overcoming severe learning disabilities by applying the principles of neuroplasticity to redesign her brain. offers an inspiring account of the brain's potential for change and the power of targeted cognitive exercises. It's accessible and motivating for a wide range of readers.
This recent publication offers a contemporary perspective on diversity and inclusion in the workplace, specifically addressing how to navigate cultural differences for positive change. It provides frameworks and tools for developing cross-cultural competence and humility, making it highly relevant for current professionals and students preparing for the modern workplace.
This forward-thinking book explores the impact of trauma on the brain's sensory pathways and how sensory-based interventions can promote healing through neuroplasticity. It's a valuable resource for understanding the brain-body connection in trauma recovery and is particularly relevant for professionals and advanced students in mental health and trauma.
This edited collection provides a broad overview of key concepts and perspectives in intercultural communication. It includes contributions from various scholars, offering a diverse range of viewpoints on the subject. It valuable resource for gaining a foundational understanding of the field and is suitable for high school and undergraduate students.
This manual presents a specific methodology using storytelling for developing intercultural competence. It offers a practical tool for educators and trainers to facilitate intercultural learning and dialogue. It's a valuable resource for those involved in designing and delivering intercultural training programs.
Delves into the science of neuroplasticity and explores how individuals can actively engage with their neurological health. It presents a hopeful perspective on transforming the brain and life through neuroplastic techniques and good resource for gaining a general understanding of the topic and its potential applications.
Focusing on leadership and team dynamics in a global context, this book provides insights into building and managing multicultural teams effectively. It addresses the cultural challenges of global collaboration and offers practical strategies for leaders. This valuable resource for those in management roles.
Offers a practical guide to using neuroplasticity for improving mental health and overall well-being. It integrates recent neuroscience research with strategies for rewiring the brain for more positivity and calmness. It's particularly useful for those interested in the practical applications of neuroplasticity for personal growth and mental health.
Based on a dialogue between scientists and the Dalai Lama, this book explores the potential to change our brains by changing our minds, particularly through mindfulness and meditation. It highlights the exciting implications of neuroplasticity for personal transformation and is relevant to courses touching on mindfulness and mental health.
Presents scientific evidence on how meditation can lead to lasting changes in the brain and overall well-being, drawing on the concept of neuroplasticity. It's a valuable resource for understanding the impact of contemplative practices on brain function and is relevant to courses on mindfulness and mental health.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of intercultural communication from a communication studies perspective. It covers various theoretical models and applies them to different communication contexts. It solid resource for undergraduate students seeking a structured introduction to the field.
Explores the concept of self-directed neuroplasticity and the mind's ability to influence the brain. It delves into the science behind this phenomenon and its implications for conditions like OCD. It's a good resource for understanding the power of mental effort in shaping the brain.
Bridges the gap between neuroscience and mindfulness, explaining how to use the principles of neuroplasticity to cultivate positive mental states. It offers practical exercises and guided meditations for fostering well-being and is relevant for understanding the intersection of neuroplasticity, meditation, and mental health, as highlighted in some of the course titles.
Rick Hanson provides practical techniques based on neuroscience to help individuals internalize positive experiences and build lasting happiness by leveraging neuroplasticity. offers actionable steps for rewiring the brain for greater well-being and is suitable for a general audience interested in self-improvement.
A seminal work in the field, this book by anthropologist Edward T. Hall explores the concept of proxemics and the hidden dimensions of communication, particularly nonverbal cues and the use of space and time. While an older classic, its insights remain relevant for understanding the subtle but significant ways culture influences communication. It provides valuable historical context.
V. S. Ramachandran explores various aspects of the brain through case studies of neurological disorders, many of which highlight the principles of neuroplasticity. offers a fascinating look at the brain's adaptability and is suitable for a broad audience, including high school and undergraduate students.
Is specifically geared towards managers and leaders, providing guidance on how to create and manage diverse and inclusive workplaces. It explores the challenges and opportunities of managing a diverse workforce and offers practical strategies for promoting equity and inclusion.
This textbook offers a comprehensive overview of cognitive neuroscience, including the neural basis of cognitive functions and how they can be altered through experience and plasticity. It provides a strong scientific foundation for understanding the relationship between brain structure, function, and behavior. Suitable for undergraduate and graduate students.
Offers a practical guide to understanding cultural differences, particularly between Germans, French, and Americans. Based on Edward Hall's work, it provides concrete examples of how cultural variations impact daily life and communication. It good resource for gaining specific cultural insights.
Considered a classic in the field of neuroscience, this comprehensive textbook covers the breadth of neural science, with detailed sections on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying learning and memory, which are core to neuroplasticity. This highly technical reference best suited for graduate students and professionals seeking an in-depth understanding.
Dr. Amen discusses how specific brain areas are related to various emotional and behavioral issues and how interventions can lead to positive changes. While his work has some争议, the book provides a perspective on how understanding brain function and plasticity can be applied to mental health concerns.
Explores the impact of culture on business interactions and provides insights into how to navigate cultural differences effectively. It valuable resource for individuals working in international business or跨文化团队s.
Introduces research at the intersection of neuroscience, epigenetics, neuroplasticity, meditation, and music therapy. It explores how the mind can influence genetic makeup and brain structure and function. This more specialized text that delves into contemporary topics and potential therapeutic applications.
Examines how societal views of mental illness can impact therapeutic approaches and the utilization of neuroplasticity. It encourages a shift in perspective for mental health professionals, considering the brain's capacity for change beyond traditional models. This more specialized text for graduate students and professionals interested in the intersection of social science, mental health, and neuroplasticity.
Specifically addresses the topic of cultural diversity in higher education, providing insights and best practices for creating inclusive and equitable learning environments. It valuable resource for administrators, faculty, and staff seeking to promote cultural diversity and student success on college campuses.
Is specifically tailored for HR professionals, providing guidance on how to create and manage inclusive and diverse workplaces. It explores the legal and ethical considerations of diversity and inclusion, as well as best practices for recruitment, retention, and employee development.
Explores the relationship between culture and cognitive development, examining how cultural factors influence children's learning and development. It valuable resource for researchers and practitioners in the fields of education, psychology, and anthropology.

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