SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING

Intercultural Communication: Bridging Boundaries and Fostering Understanding

16 December 2023/ By Zineb DJOUB

The ability to communicate across cultural boundaries has become not just a skill but a necessity in our increasingly interconnected and globalized world where individuals and groups with diverse cultural identities regularly interact in various contexts. This ability is defined not only by fluency or language mastery but also by cultural awareness, embracing differences, and fostering meaningful connections amidst a rich tapestry of diversity. Indeed, intercultural communication has become the key to building bridges and fostering opportunities for connection and collaboration across diverse cultures.

So, understanding intercultural communication is very important for teachers and students as we are both in need of essential life skills for navigating an increasingly interconnected and diverse world.

What is intercultural communication?

Intercultural communication involves navigating and exchanging information across cultural boundaries while accounting for differences in language, customs, values, norms, and communication styles.

So, it is about negotiating shared meaning and exchanging information between people with different cultural backgrounds.

However, different cultural backgrounds do not only mean individuals from different nationalities but also those who live in the same city or region but who do not share the same social group.

Accordingly, intercultural communication extends far beyond geographical or national boundaries. It encompasses inter-ethnic, inter-religious, and even inter-regional communication, as well as communication among individuals of different sexual orientations.

Indeed, intercultural communication breakdown occurs due to:

• Language barriers: Misinterpreting words, idioms, or expressions.
• Non-verbal communication gaps: Misinterpreting gestures, facial expressions, or body language.
• Cultural stereotypes: Making assumptions based on stereotypes rather than understanding individual differences.
• Differing communication styles: Varied preferences for directness, formality, or indirect communication styles.
• Religious and cultural practices: Misunderstandings or discomfort related to religious practices or cultural traditions.
• Differing perceptions: Misunderstanding due to differences in views regarding time and punctuality, personal opinions vs group consensus, resolving conflicts approaches, and digital communication etiquette.

 

Key aspects of intercultural communication

Key components of the ability to communicate inter-culturally include:

Intercultural competence

This includes awareness of other cultures, besides having the necessary linguistic repertoire to use words appropriately for a given communication goal as well as using and interpreting non-verbal cues such as gestures, facial expressions, and body language.

Intercultural competence also includes being open-minded, tolerant, and displaying interest in knowing and accepting cultural differences.

Adaptability

This is the ability to modify one’s communication style, behaviours, and expectations to conform to the cultural norms and preferences of the individuals or groups with whom one interacts.

Adaptability also involves being open to learning from other cultures and looking for feedback to enhance one’s ability to engage effectively across diverse contexts.

Active listening

Active listening is not just about being attentive and listening to others but it also involves seeking clarification and confirming understanding. Displaying attentiveness and engagement in a conversation can lead to more compassionate and culturally sensitive interactions.

Conflict resolution skills

Misunderstandings, differing perspectives, and cultural clashes can lead to conflicts. It is necessary to use conflict resolution skills that can help address misunderstandings diplomatically and find common ground for mutual understanding.

Globalization and technology

The advent of technology has facilitated instant communication across borders. So, it has become important to understand cultural differences in virtual communication.

For instance, emoticons and symbols in written communication are used and interpreted differently by various cultures. Besides, some cultures may express disagreement directly, while others may use more indirect or diplomatic language.

Why is intercultural communication important?

Intercultural communication is important to avoid conflict caused by a diverse cultural working environment. In the workplace, effective intercultural communication enhances team productivity, creativity, and collaboration, avoiding any misunderstanding that can arise from cultural differences.

However, intercultural communication is not just important in the business world, all areas require intercultural communication skills.

Developing intercultural communication competence is a source of personal growth. We reflect on our culture and others, get more open-minded, navigate cultural nuances, avoid stereotypes, and engage in meaningful interactions with others.

So, it can help us build sustaining relationships where trust, empathy, and respect are shared. This is crucial in creating opportunities for cooperation among individuals and communities.

We, educators need to exchange ideas, perspectives, and knowledge with colleagues and other teachers around the globe.

It is true that we are from diverse backgrounds and have different perspectives, but with intercultural communication skills, we can work together in peace and harmony.

Further, developing these skills among our students is also an important educational goal.

Intercultural communication fosters social and emotional intelligence. It supports students to build positive relationships, manage conflicts, and thrive in diverse social settings.

So, those students with strong intercultural communication skills are better prepared to navigate new cultural environments, establish connections, and make the most of their study abroad experiences.

In addition, when we teach students about intercultural communication, we are preparing them for a globalized job market where they can work effectively in multicultural teams and navigate the complexities of international business.

In conclusion, effective intercultural communication is not just a skill but a shared commitment to mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration. Its importance extends across various aspects of personal, professional, and societal interactions. So, let’s embrace the skills and mindset of intercultural communication for a more harmonious and united global community.

Recommended books

Arent, R.(2009). Bridging the Cross-Cultural Gap Listening and Speaking Tasks for Developing Fluency in English. USA: University of Michigan Press ELT.

Hampden-Turner, C., & Trompenaars, F. (2020). Riding the Waves of Culture: Understanding Diversity in Global Business. New York: McGraw-Hill.

Hofstede, G. & Hofstede, G.J. (2010). Cultures and Organizations: Software of the Mind. New York: McGraw-Hill.

Spencer-Oatey, H. & Franklin, P.(2009). Intercultural Interaction: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Intercultural Communication. England: Palgrave Macmillan.