SlideShare una empresa de Scribd logo
1 de 6
http://oxforddictionaries.com/searc
h/words/?multi=1&q=caltural
intercultural
Pronunciation: /ɪ ntəˈk ltʃ ərəl/
                       ʌ



Definition of intercultural


 adjective
            taking place between cultures, or derived from different cultures:intercultural communication

Derivatives

interculturalism

noun




British & World English



Did you mean cultural?



French-English



culturel



German-English



kulturell



Italian-English



culturale



culturali
Spanish-English



cultural




communication

                      ɪ keɪʃ(ə)n/
Pronunciation: /kəmjuːnː




Translate communication | into French | into German | into Italian | into Spanish

Definition of communication

noun

           1 [mass noun] the imparting or exchanging of information by speaking, writing, or using
           some other medium:television is an effective means of communicationat the moment I am in
           communication with London

           [count noun] a letter or message containing information or news:a telephone
           communication

           the successful conveying or sharing of ideas and feelings:there was a lack of communication
           between Pamela and her parents

           social contact:she gave him some hope of her return, or at least of their future
           communication

           2 (communications) means of sending or receiving information, such as telephone lines or
           computers:satellite communications[as modifier]:a communications network

           [treated as singular] the field of study concerned with the transmission of information.

           3 (communications) means of travelling or of transporting goods, such as roads or railways:a
           city providing excellent road and rail communications

Derivatives

communicational

adjective
What is the definition of intercultural
communication?
Payhauler Transmissionswww.milllog.com/Hard to find PayhaulerTrannys in stock and
ready to go! Ask for Bob
Interculturalwww.similsite.com/InterculturalScout for Info on 1M Websites! Free
Website Intelligence & Trends.
Answer:
This is in many ways similar to group communication, but the role of groups is taken by ethnic
cultures. 'Culture', of course, is not just the domain of nations; it also describes the norms and
conventions of groups (e.g. 'gang culture'), and collectivities with shared knowledge and ideology
(e.g. academic culture). However as it is used in communication studies, intercultural
communication tends to descibe the relations between members of different ethnic groups and
languages, interacting in an international context, such as the United Nations assemblies, or in a
context where one culture is dominant, such as in societies with minority migrant groups
(Marsen, 2006).



http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_the_definition_of_intercultural_communication




The Definition of Intercultural Communication


What is intercultural communication?
Intercultural communication in its most basic form refers to an academic field of
study and research. Its seeks to understand how people from different countries and
cultures behave, communicate and perceive the world around them. The findings of
such academic research are then applied to 'real life' situations such as how to
create cultural synergy between people from different cultures within a business or
how psychologists understand their patients.

The definition of intercultural communication must also include strands of the field
that contribute to it such as anthropology, cultural studies, psychology and
communication.

There are many researchers and academics of note within the intercultural field, who
naturally all have different definitions of 'intercultual communication'. For example
Karlfried Knapp defines it as "'Intercultural communication,' can...be defined as the
interpersonal interaction between members of different groups, which differ from
    each other in respect of the knowledge shared by their members and in respect of
    their linguistic forms of symbolic behaviour." For those wanting to dig a bit deeper it
    may be a good idea to look into the works of Edward T. Hall, Geert Hofstede, Harry
    C. Triandis, FonsTrompenaars, Clifford Geertz and Shalom Schwartz.

    The theories developed by the researchers and academics can and has been
    applied to many fields such as business, management, marketing, advertising and
    website design. As business becomes more and more international, many
    companies need to know how best to structure their companies, manage staff and
    communicate with customers. Intercultural communication gives them an insight into
    the areas they need to address or understand. Intercultural communication theories
    are now also used within the education, health care and other public services due to
    growing multicultural populations.

    http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/articles/definition-of-intercultural-communication.html




    What Are the Barriers to Intercultural
    Communication?
    By David Stewart, eHow Contributor
    Print this article

    As people travel more for education or business, communication across cultures is
    becoming increasingly important. Although all humans may express the emotions of
    joy, pain, anger and fear with the same facial expressions, it is the cultural background
    that determines the extent to which an emotion is expressed. Differences in culture can
    pose various blocks in the process of interaction and even cause rifts. An understanding
    of these barriers is therefore of great value if you wish to improve your ability to
    communicate and learn from a culture other than your own.


         How to Experience Intercultural Communication     Readings About Intercultural Communication
1. Anxiety
o   The very fact that you are facing someone of another culture often creates apprehension.
    You worry about whether you will be able to express your ideas correctly. If you happen
    to be communicating in a language other than your native tongue, you may have fears
    about grammar and pronunciation, as well as your ability to comprehend what the other
    person is saying. This anxiety in turn affects your ability to communicate with focus and
    clarity.

    Assumptions
o   When we don't pay attention to how other cultures differ from ours, it is easy to get
    trapped into assuming that everyone is the same just because they are human and have
    the same needs. This error, though inadvertent, often leads to difficulties in
    communication because cultures differ in their attitudes toward the pursuit of these
    needs. Some cultures, such as the Japanese, assume the opposite: that they are different
from others. Whether you assume similarities or differences, you are setting up a major
    barrier to communication because your assumptions make it difficult to develop mutual
    understanding.
o   Sponsored Links
   Bulk Email--Free Trial
    Email marketing to fit your needs. Start a Free 30-Day Trial Today.
    www.iContact.com

    Language Differences
o   Although people from different cultures may pick up the vocabulary of a new culture,
    their cultural differences can lead to miscommunication. For example, if an American
    host asks a guest from an Eastern culture, "Won't you stay to dinner?" and the guest
    replies "No," the guest is probably replying to the literal meaning of the query. He or she
    may want to stay but refuse the invitation because in his or her culture, it is considered
    rude to accept the first offer made. So the guest waits for the host to repeat the invitation
    a second or third time. The host, however, unaware of this, accepts the guest's refusal.

    Stereotypes
o   When faced with anxiety about interacting with a new culture, most people resort to the
    false comfort of stereotypes. A stereotype is an overgeneralized belief that provides a
    starting point for understanding a culture. Although some stereotypes can be positive --
    believing that the Japanese are good at math, for example -- the vast majority of
    stereotypes are negative and form the biggest block to communication. If you harbor a
    stereotype of Arabs as terrorists, for example, you may find yourself avoiding an Arab
    classmate.

    Tendency to Evaluate
o   To really understand and communicate across cultures, it is important to overcome any
    tendency to be judgmental. When they find something that goes against their culture,
    most people respond with disapproval rather than empathy. For example, an immigrant
    from an African country who is used to hardship may frown upon what he or she
    perceives as the wasteful expenditure of Americans on designer clothing.

    http://www.ehow.com/info_8072130_barriers-intercultural-
    communication.html?ref=Track2&utm_source=ask




    Ways to Improve Intercultural Communication
    Intercultural communication skills are important in today's workplace environment. These skills can
    help you avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and misinterpretations due to ineffective
    communication. You can forestall frustration, tension and decreased productivity. Improve
    intercultural communication skills by learning about other peoples' cultures, behaviors and
    communication styles; unlock the potential for a creative and dynamic cross-cultural environment.
Be Respectful
Treat others with respect and address them appropriately; this is especially important
for closing and opening conversations. If you're unsure of how to address someone, ask
first.



Learn About Other Cultures
In order to avoid insensitive comments and misunderstandings, research and learn
about specific cultures. At the same time, avoid overgeneralizing and stereotyping. Each
person is an individual, so try not to make assumptions about a person of another
culture based on what you have learned. Instead, aim for a better understanding and
more effective communication.

Avoid Using Slang and Idioms
Use specific and relevant words when speaking. Slang and idioms will not be understood
by people of other cultures; try not to put others in a position that requires them to "read
between the lines." Think before you speak. Clarify or rephrase your dialogue when you
catch yourself saying something that may be misinterpreted.

Be Aware
Be aware of your body and energy; nonverbal cues and gestures may communicate more
than you think. At the same time, pay attention to and be aware of others' nonverbal cues
and gestures.


Read more: Ways to Improve Intercultural Communication |
eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_7466416_ways-improve-intercultural-
communication.html#ixzz2Ny097b4b

Más contenido relacionado

La actualidad más candente

041E
041E041E
041EJen W
 
Intercultural communication
Intercultural communicationIntercultural communication
Intercultural communicationNamrata Gohil
 
Cultural Aspects Of Communication Online
Cultural Aspects Of Communication OnlineCultural Aspects Of Communication Online
Cultural Aspects Of Communication OnlineCarole McCulloch
 
GunawardenaCultural Aspects of Communication Processes Online - Identity, Gen...
GunawardenaCultural Aspects of Communication Processes Online - Identity, Gen...GunawardenaCultural Aspects of Communication Processes Online - Identity, Gen...
GunawardenaCultural Aspects of Communication Processes Online - Identity, Gen...joao jose saraiva da fonseca
 
Intercultural Communication
Intercultural CommunicationIntercultural Communication
Intercultural CommunicationArun Jacob
 
LIS 502 Socio-Linguistic Paper
LIS 502 Socio-Linguistic PaperLIS 502 Socio-Linguistic Paper
LIS 502 Socio-Linguistic PaperQuennith
 
Ip cchaper1 thornock
Ip cchaper1 thornockIp cchaper1 thornock
Ip cchaper1 thornockRThornock
 
Heritage learners
Heritage learnersHeritage learners
Heritage learnerseowen2
 
Cross Cultural Communication
Cross Cultural CommunicationCross Cultural Communication
Cross Cultural CommunicationSaranya vasudevan
 
Misunderstanding in communication
Misunderstanding in communicationMisunderstanding in communication
Misunderstanding in communicationSùng A Tô
 
Teaching culture in a language class
Teaching culture in a language classTeaching culture in a language class
Teaching culture in a language classJoanne Chen
 
The Consequences of Language Contact on the Sociolinguistic Situation of Kuru...
The Consequences of Language Contact on the Sociolinguistic Situation of Kuru...The Consequences of Language Contact on the Sociolinguistic Situation of Kuru...
The Consequences of Language Contact on the Sociolinguistic Situation of Kuru...English Literature and Language Review ELLR
 
Communication and Entertainment
Communication and EntertainmentCommunication and Entertainment
Communication and EntertainmentShiksha Chaturvedi
 
Heritage Speakers material- Original contribution- Cristian Miguez
Heritage Speakers material- Original contribution- Cristian MiguezHeritage Speakers material- Original contribution- Cristian Miguez
Heritage Speakers material- Original contribution- Cristian MiguezCristian Miguez
 
Intercultural communication
Intercultural communicationIntercultural communication
Intercultural communicationmarisolaquino18
 
Intercultural communication
Intercultural communicationIntercultural communication
Intercultural communicationcharles boen
 
Hs.literacy
Hs.literacyHs.literacy
Hs.literacyKAMudd
 
Hirschpresentation
HirschpresentationHirschpresentation
Hirschpresentationjdagato
 

La actualidad más candente (20)

041E
041E041E
041E
 
Intercultural communication
Intercultural communicationIntercultural communication
Intercultural communication
 
Cultural Aspects Of Communication Online
Cultural Aspects Of Communication OnlineCultural Aspects Of Communication Online
Cultural Aspects Of Communication Online
 
GunawardenaCultural Aspects of Communication Processes Online - Identity, Gen...
GunawardenaCultural Aspects of Communication Processes Online - Identity, Gen...GunawardenaCultural Aspects of Communication Processes Online - Identity, Gen...
GunawardenaCultural Aspects of Communication Processes Online - Identity, Gen...
 
Intercultural Communication
Intercultural CommunicationIntercultural Communication
Intercultural Communication
 
LIS 502 Socio-Linguistic Paper
LIS 502 Socio-Linguistic PaperLIS 502 Socio-Linguistic Paper
LIS 502 Socio-Linguistic Paper
 
L0323069074
L0323069074L0323069074
L0323069074
 
Ip cchaper1 thornock
Ip cchaper1 thornockIp cchaper1 thornock
Ip cchaper1 thornock
 
Heritage learners
Heritage learnersHeritage learners
Heritage learners
 
Cross Cultural Communication
Cross Cultural CommunicationCross Cultural Communication
Cross Cultural Communication
 
Misunderstanding in communication
Misunderstanding in communicationMisunderstanding in communication
Misunderstanding in communication
 
Teaching culture in a language class
Teaching culture in a language classTeaching culture in a language class
Teaching culture in a language class
 
The Consequences of Language Contact on the Sociolinguistic Situation of Kuru...
The Consequences of Language Contact on the Sociolinguistic Situation of Kuru...The Consequences of Language Contact on the Sociolinguistic Situation of Kuru...
The Consequences of Language Contact on the Sociolinguistic Situation of Kuru...
 
World Language
World LanguageWorld Language
World Language
 
Communication and Entertainment
Communication and EntertainmentCommunication and Entertainment
Communication and Entertainment
 
Heritage Speakers material- Original contribution- Cristian Miguez
Heritage Speakers material- Original contribution- Cristian MiguezHeritage Speakers material- Original contribution- Cristian Miguez
Heritage Speakers material- Original contribution- Cristian Miguez
 
Intercultural communication
Intercultural communicationIntercultural communication
Intercultural communication
 
Intercultural communication
Intercultural communicationIntercultural communication
Intercultural communication
 
Hs.literacy
Hs.literacyHs.literacy
Hs.literacy
 
Hirschpresentation
HirschpresentationHirschpresentation
Hirschpresentation
 

Destacado

Herramientas tecnologicas para el desarrollo del pensamiento en
Herramientas tecnologicas para el desarrollo del pensamiento enHerramientas tecnologicas para el desarrollo del pensamiento en
Herramientas tecnologicas para el desarrollo del pensamiento enAdrian Gonzalez
 
Apresentação de serviço
Apresentação de serviçoApresentação de serviço
Apresentação de serviço5mkt
 
Evangelists as Developer Program Drivers (3scale at APIdays Berlin)
Evangelists as Developer Program Drivers (3scale at APIdays Berlin)Evangelists as Developer Program Drivers (3scale at APIdays Berlin)
Evangelists as Developer Program Drivers (3scale at APIdays Berlin)3scale
 
Personal Branding for the Young Nonprofit Professional-September 2013
Personal Branding for the Young Nonprofit Professional-September 2013Personal Branding for the Young Nonprofit Professional-September 2013
Personal Branding for the Young Nonprofit Professional-September 2013Aaron Swart
 
Fotos De Las Mini Vacaciones
Fotos De Las Mini   VacacionesFotos De Las Mini   Vacaciones
Fotos De Las Mini Vacacionestiadoc
 
Tipos De Reacciones Quimicas
Tipos De Reacciones QuimicasTipos De Reacciones Quimicas
Tipos De Reacciones Quimicasguest598838
 
Hype vs. Reality: The AI Explainer
Hype vs. Reality: The AI ExplainerHype vs. Reality: The AI Explainer
Hype vs. Reality: The AI ExplainerLuminary Labs
 

Destacado (8)

Estudio
EstudioEstudio
Estudio
 
Herramientas tecnologicas para el desarrollo del pensamiento en
Herramientas tecnologicas para el desarrollo del pensamiento enHerramientas tecnologicas para el desarrollo del pensamiento en
Herramientas tecnologicas para el desarrollo del pensamiento en
 
Apresentação de serviço
Apresentação de serviçoApresentação de serviço
Apresentação de serviço
 
Evangelists as Developer Program Drivers (3scale at APIdays Berlin)
Evangelists as Developer Program Drivers (3scale at APIdays Berlin)Evangelists as Developer Program Drivers (3scale at APIdays Berlin)
Evangelists as Developer Program Drivers (3scale at APIdays Berlin)
 
Personal Branding for the Young Nonprofit Professional-September 2013
Personal Branding for the Young Nonprofit Professional-September 2013Personal Branding for the Young Nonprofit Professional-September 2013
Personal Branding for the Young Nonprofit Professional-September 2013
 
Fotos De Las Mini Vacaciones
Fotos De Las Mini   VacacionesFotos De Las Mini   Vacaciones
Fotos De Las Mini Vacaciones
 
Tipos De Reacciones Quimicas
Tipos De Reacciones QuimicasTipos De Reacciones Quimicas
Tipos De Reacciones Quimicas
 
Hype vs. Reality: The AI Explainer
Hype vs. Reality: The AI ExplainerHype vs. Reality: The AI Explainer
Hype vs. Reality: The AI Explainer
 

Similar a Understanding Intercultural Communication

su20070916
su20070916su20070916
su20070916Jen W
 
Communicating Interculturaly
Communicating  InterculturalyCommunicating  Interculturaly
Communicating InterculturalySandeep Kundaliya
 
Inter curtural nd international communication
Inter curtural nd international communication Inter curtural nd international communication
Inter curtural nd international communication Sahabzada Fahad Ahmed
 
8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx
8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx
8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docxblondellchancy
 
8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx
8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx
8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docxpriestmanmable
 
Dynamics of Communication
Dynamics of CommunicationDynamics of Communication
Dynamics of CommunicationTANVI PATEL
 
Local and Global Communication in Multicultural Settings - Purposive Communic...
Local and Global Communication in Multicultural Settings - Purposive Communic...Local and Global Communication in Multicultural Settings - Purposive Communic...
Local and Global Communication in Multicultural Settings - Purposive Communic...Nathaniel Aliguyon
 
Cross cultural communication
Cross cultural communicationCross cultural communication
Cross cultural communicationRijitha R
 
5. Communicating across Cultures.pptx
5. Communicating across Cultures.pptx5. Communicating across Cultures.pptx
5. Communicating across Cultures.pptxBeenishKh
 
Barriers Of Intercultural Communication
Barriers Of Intercultural CommunicationBarriers Of Intercultural Communication
Barriers Of Intercultural CommunicationJill Crawford
 
Local and Global Communication in Multicultural Settings
Local and Global Communication  in Multicultural Settings Local and Global Communication  in Multicultural Settings
Local and Global Communication in Multicultural Settings TeacherRichster
 
LESSON 1 PURPOSIVE COMM MIDTERM.pptx
LESSON 1 PURPOSIVE COMM MIDTERM.pptxLESSON 1 PURPOSIVE COMM MIDTERM.pptx
LESSON 1 PURPOSIVE COMM MIDTERM.pptxbennydecastro1
 
Intercultural Communication And Interpersonal Communication
Intercultural Communication And Interpersonal CommunicationIntercultural Communication And Interpersonal Communication
Intercultural Communication And Interpersonal CommunicationAmber Wheeler
 

Similar a Understanding Intercultural Communication (16)

su20070916
su20070916su20070916
su20070916
 
Communicating Interculturaly
Communicating  InterculturalyCommunicating  Interculturaly
Communicating Interculturaly
 
Inter curtural nd international communication
Inter curtural nd international communication Inter curtural nd international communication
Inter curtural nd international communication
 
8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx
8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx
8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx
 
8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx
8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx
8.3 Intercultural CommunicationLearning Objectives1. Define in.docx
 
Dynamics of Communication
Dynamics of CommunicationDynamics of Communication
Dynamics of Communication
 
Local and Global Communication in Multicultural Settings - Purposive Communic...
Local and Global Communication in Multicultural Settings - Purposive Communic...Local and Global Communication in Multicultural Settings - Purposive Communic...
Local and Global Communication in Multicultural Settings - Purposive Communic...
 
Cross cultural communication
Cross cultural communicationCross cultural communication
Cross cultural communication
 
5. Communicating across Cultures.pptx
5. Communicating across Cultures.pptx5. Communicating across Cultures.pptx
5. Communicating across Cultures.pptx
 
Week 4-occ corrected
Week 4-occ correctedWeek 4-occ corrected
Week 4-occ corrected
 
Barriers Of Intercultural Communication
Barriers Of Intercultural CommunicationBarriers Of Intercultural Communication
Barriers Of Intercultural Communication
 
Local and Global Communication in Multicultural Settings
Local and Global Communication  in Multicultural Settings Local and Global Communication  in Multicultural Settings
Local and Global Communication in Multicultural Settings
 
Intercultural communication
Intercultural communicationIntercultural communication
Intercultural communication
 
LESSON 1 PURPOSIVE COMM MIDTERM.pptx
LESSON 1 PURPOSIVE COMM MIDTERM.pptxLESSON 1 PURPOSIVE COMM MIDTERM.pptx
LESSON 1 PURPOSIVE COMM MIDTERM.pptx
 
Mcm module 2b
Mcm   module 2bMcm   module 2b
Mcm module 2b
 
Intercultural Communication And Interpersonal Communication
Intercultural Communication And Interpersonal CommunicationIntercultural Communication And Interpersonal Communication
Intercultural Communication And Interpersonal Communication
 

Understanding Intercultural Communication

  • 1. http://oxforddictionaries.com/searc h/words/?multi=1&q=caltural intercultural Pronunciation: /ɪ ntəˈk ltʃ ərəl/ ʌ Definition of intercultural adjective taking place between cultures, or derived from different cultures:intercultural communication Derivatives interculturalism noun British & World English Did you mean cultural? French-English culturel German-English kulturell Italian-English culturale culturali
  • 2. Spanish-English cultural communication ɪ keɪʃ(ə)n/ Pronunciation: /kəmjuːnː Translate communication | into French | into German | into Italian | into Spanish Definition of communication noun 1 [mass noun] the imparting or exchanging of information by speaking, writing, or using some other medium:television is an effective means of communicationat the moment I am in communication with London [count noun] a letter or message containing information or news:a telephone communication the successful conveying or sharing of ideas and feelings:there was a lack of communication between Pamela and her parents social contact:she gave him some hope of her return, or at least of their future communication 2 (communications) means of sending or receiving information, such as telephone lines or computers:satellite communications[as modifier]:a communications network [treated as singular] the field of study concerned with the transmission of information. 3 (communications) means of travelling or of transporting goods, such as roads or railways:a city providing excellent road and rail communications Derivatives communicational adjective
  • 3. What is the definition of intercultural communication? Payhauler Transmissionswww.milllog.com/Hard to find PayhaulerTrannys in stock and ready to go! Ask for Bob Interculturalwww.similsite.com/InterculturalScout for Info on 1M Websites! Free Website Intelligence & Trends. Answer: This is in many ways similar to group communication, but the role of groups is taken by ethnic cultures. 'Culture', of course, is not just the domain of nations; it also describes the norms and conventions of groups (e.g. 'gang culture'), and collectivities with shared knowledge and ideology (e.g. academic culture). However as it is used in communication studies, intercultural communication tends to descibe the relations between members of different ethnic groups and languages, interacting in an international context, such as the United Nations assemblies, or in a context where one culture is dominant, such as in societies with minority migrant groups (Marsen, 2006). http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_the_definition_of_intercultural_communication The Definition of Intercultural Communication What is intercultural communication? Intercultural communication in its most basic form refers to an academic field of study and research. Its seeks to understand how people from different countries and cultures behave, communicate and perceive the world around them. The findings of such academic research are then applied to 'real life' situations such as how to create cultural synergy between people from different cultures within a business or how psychologists understand their patients. The definition of intercultural communication must also include strands of the field that contribute to it such as anthropology, cultural studies, psychology and communication. There are many researchers and academics of note within the intercultural field, who naturally all have different definitions of 'intercultual communication'. For example Karlfried Knapp defines it as "'Intercultural communication,' can...be defined as the
  • 4. interpersonal interaction between members of different groups, which differ from each other in respect of the knowledge shared by their members and in respect of their linguistic forms of symbolic behaviour." For those wanting to dig a bit deeper it may be a good idea to look into the works of Edward T. Hall, Geert Hofstede, Harry C. Triandis, FonsTrompenaars, Clifford Geertz and Shalom Schwartz. The theories developed by the researchers and academics can and has been applied to many fields such as business, management, marketing, advertising and website design. As business becomes more and more international, many companies need to know how best to structure their companies, manage staff and communicate with customers. Intercultural communication gives them an insight into the areas they need to address or understand. Intercultural communication theories are now also used within the education, health care and other public services due to growing multicultural populations. http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/articles/definition-of-intercultural-communication.html What Are the Barriers to Intercultural Communication? By David Stewart, eHow Contributor Print this article As people travel more for education or business, communication across cultures is becoming increasingly important. Although all humans may express the emotions of joy, pain, anger and fear with the same facial expressions, it is the cultural background that determines the extent to which an emotion is expressed. Differences in culture can pose various blocks in the process of interaction and even cause rifts. An understanding of these barriers is therefore of great value if you wish to improve your ability to communicate and learn from a culture other than your own. How to Experience Intercultural Communication Readings About Intercultural Communication 1. Anxiety o The very fact that you are facing someone of another culture often creates apprehension. You worry about whether you will be able to express your ideas correctly. If you happen to be communicating in a language other than your native tongue, you may have fears about grammar and pronunciation, as well as your ability to comprehend what the other person is saying. This anxiety in turn affects your ability to communicate with focus and clarity. Assumptions o When we don't pay attention to how other cultures differ from ours, it is easy to get trapped into assuming that everyone is the same just because they are human and have the same needs. This error, though inadvertent, often leads to difficulties in communication because cultures differ in their attitudes toward the pursuit of these needs. Some cultures, such as the Japanese, assume the opposite: that they are different
  • 5. from others. Whether you assume similarities or differences, you are setting up a major barrier to communication because your assumptions make it difficult to develop mutual understanding. o Sponsored Links  Bulk Email--Free Trial Email marketing to fit your needs. Start a Free 30-Day Trial Today. www.iContact.com Language Differences o Although people from different cultures may pick up the vocabulary of a new culture, their cultural differences can lead to miscommunication. For example, if an American host asks a guest from an Eastern culture, "Won't you stay to dinner?" and the guest replies "No," the guest is probably replying to the literal meaning of the query. He or she may want to stay but refuse the invitation because in his or her culture, it is considered rude to accept the first offer made. So the guest waits for the host to repeat the invitation a second or third time. The host, however, unaware of this, accepts the guest's refusal. Stereotypes o When faced with anxiety about interacting with a new culture, most people resort to the false comfort of stereotypes. A stereotype is an overgeneralized belief that provides a starting point for understanding a culture. Although some stereotypes can be positive -- believing that the Japanese are good at math, for example -- the vast majority of stereotypes are negative and form the biggest block to communication. If you harbor a stereotype of Arabs as terrorists, for example, you may find yourself avoiding an Arab classmate. Tendency to Evaluate o To really understand and communicate across cultures, it is important to overcome any tendency to be judgmental. When they find something that goes against their culture, most people respond with disapproval rather than empathy. For example, an immigrant from an African country who is used to hardship may frown upon what he or she perceives as the wasteful expenditure of Americans on designer clothing. http://www.ehow.com/info_8072130_barriers-intercultural- communication.html?ref=Track2&utm_source=ask Ways to Improve Intercultural Communication Intercultural communication skills are important in today's workplace environment. These skills can help you avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and misinterpretations due to ineffective communication. You can forestall frustration, tension and decreased productivity. Improve intercultural communication skills by learning about other peoples' cultures, behaviors and communication styles; unlock the potential for a creative and dynamic cross-cultural environment.
  • 6. Be Respectful Treat others with respect and address them appropriately; this is especially important for closing and opening conversations. If you're unsure of how to address someone, ask first. Learn About Other Cultures In order to avoid insensitive comments and misunderstandings, research and learn about specific cultures. At the same time, avoid overgeneralizing and stereotyping. Each person is an individual, so try not to make assumptions about a person of another culture based on what you have learned. Instead, aim for a better understanding and more effective communication. Avoid Using Slang and Idioms Use specific and relevant words when speaking. Slang and idioms will not be understood by people of other cultures; try not to put others in a position that requires them to "read between the lines." Think before you speak. Clarify or rephrase your dialogue when you catch yourself saying something that may be misinterpreted. Be Aware Be aware of your body and energy; nonverbal cues and gestures may communicate more than you think. At the same time, pay attention to and be aware of others' nonverbal cues and gestures. Read more: Ways to Improve Intercultural Communication | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_7466416_ways-improve-intercultural- communication.html#ixzz2Ny097b4b