We meet people wherever we go. We talk and communicate with each other in different languages and try to understand each other’s culture consisting of language, tradition, religion, and in some cases mannerisms, etc.

As we meet people, be it for leisure or professionally, we often attempt to understand each other and solve problems in the bid to coexist and enjoy each other’s company. The case is not different in the context of this course, which is a Problem-Based Learning environment.

Oftentimes, interacting with people from diverse cultural backgrounds can be hard and very complex. The root of the problem is often the ability to effectively communicate intentions and thoughts in a manner that will not be misunderstood. This is because culture affects the way we communicate as well as receive, perceive, process, and interpret information. Information is often filtered either verbally or visually through the lens of culture. Our culture is informed by our environment and upbringing which, in turn, shapes our worldview and how we perceive and interact with our environment.

Therefore, developing knowledge, attitudes, and skills in intercultural communications is very important both for teachers and students, and everyone. As a teacher, by now you would have realized that your classroom is becoming increasingly multicultural. Your possession of knowledge, attitude, and skills in intercultural communication enables you to effectively manage, as well as quell, conflicts in multicultural classrooms. By now you have also realized that your students are increasingly being employed in multicultural organizations. Globalization and technology-driven workplaces have created increased diversity in the workplace. Therefore the possession of knowledge, attitude, and skills in intercultural communication does not only help your students navigate the intercultural communication challenges in class but it prepares them for the workplace of the future. 

Therefore, in this introductory course, you will learn about why intercultural communication and how you, as a teacher, can develop competences in intercultural communication.