Culture & Communication
This presentation is part of a bigger project on Culture and Communication. Here you will read some of the compelling reasons why schools and teachers should help students intentionally develop greater cultural sensitivity and an expanded capacity to empathize and understand diverse perspectives. The home page this slideshow is linked to can be accessed at: https://www.thinglink.com/scene/778459882637492224
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PRESENTATION OUTLINE
Cultural competency is a skill set that is becoming highly valued by employers locally and globally.
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Researchers describe a culturally competent person as having the skills to work effectively with others, being sensitive in both verbal and nonverbal exchanges, and most notably, with greater diversity in workplaces, “they need to have the skills to negotiate different social and cultural environments” (British Council, 2013).
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Therefore, developing intercultural competency from an early age will provide students with an important edge as they compete in a competitive education and career environment.
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Cultural competency requires more than having tolerance for others.
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So what skills can we teach that might help kids become more empathetic & understanding of others?
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In 'Creating Cultures of Thinking', Ron Ritchhart (2015) describes the effect of absolute and conditional language on learners and teams. Absolute language can shut down a conversation, thinking and alternative perspectives. On the other hand, a number of studies have found that the use of conditional language in various situations such as classrooms and in groups, results in more mindful, flexible and open interactions. (p. 37).
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Several different kinds of intelligences, including cultural and emotional intelligence, are part of cultural competency.
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In a study of global leaders, Tucker et al (2014) found that highly successful leaders consistently display the following characteristics and behaviours:
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1. "Enjoy new challenges, strive for innovative solutions to social and situational issues and learn from a variety of sources
3. Socialize comfortably with new people in unfamiliar social situations, demonstrate genuine interest in other people; and exhibit a good sense of humour
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4. See through vagueness and uncertainty, do not become frustrated, and figure out how things are done in other cultures
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5. Remain calm, without being critical of oneself
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6. Demonstrate respect for the political and spiritual beliefs of people of other cultures”
(Tucker et al, 2014).
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These skills are complex and not easily taught. They are in fact, often acquired through life experiences that are singularly unique, such as growing up in a biracial family or living outside your national culture.
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Schools have a role to play in providing conditions and opportunities for students to practice skills in teamwork, to develop empathy for others from different backgrounds, and also to learn new languages--a recognized avenue for developing cultural awareness.
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