Cross-cultural Communication

Syllabus

Course code: PT512

Course instructor: Duane H.Elmer, PhD

                                  Muriel Elmer, PhD

 

Course Description

There are sound theological reasons for committing ourselves to understand other cultures and appreciate them. To learn of them and from them with an open mind is to discover how God reveals something of himself through their distinct world and life view.

This course is designed to help you see that cross-cultural relationships take place in the realities of everyday life. It will give you some insights and principles to prepare for cross-cultural ministry at home or abroad.

 

Course Objectives 

• to provide practical guidelines which will help to live more harmoniously with cultural differences;

• to show the importance of cross-cultural adjustment in order to represent Christ well;

• to provide insights on different ways people of various cultures handle conflict;

• to teach how to communicate without negative assessments;

• to explain the process of becoming a servant.

    

Course Outline 

Introduction. The Monkey "Serves" the Fish" 

Lecture 1. Cross-cultural communication

1.1. Fitting into Another Culture.

1.2. The Cultural Adjustment Map.  

1.3. Effective cross-cultural worker.

1.4. Communication model.

1.5. Negative attribution theory.

1.6. The Test. 

Lecture 2. Cultural differences

2.1. Introduction.

2.2.  Western vs Majority World. Part I

2.3. Western vs Majority World. Part II 

Lecture3. Conflict management

3.1. Introduction.

3.2. Observation and assumption regarding conflict.

3.3. Western approach to handling the conflict situation.

3.4. Passive-aggressive behaviour.

3.5. Indirect approach to conflict resolution.  

3.6. The need for forgiveness.

3.7. Communication principles for conflict resolution. 

Lecture 4. Pilgrimage to Servanthood

4.1. Openness.

4.2. Acceptance.

4.3. Trust.

4.4.Learning.

4.5. Understanding and Serving.