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Students prepared for this course must have completed at least three (3) of the previous six (6) courses (COS100-110-200-210-400-410) that deal with communication skills, skillful communication, interculteral communication, and intercultural studies. Students must be fluent or near-fluent in English and be able to communicate concepts, principles, and with those within their faith, but also with those external to their faith. Students are required to purchase the course book COS610.

COS610: Cross-Cultural Communication in Global Contexts

Course Description: COS610, "Cross-Cultural Communication in Global Contexts," is an advanced exploration of the complexities and nuances of communication across diverse cultures in a globalized world. This course provides students with a deep understanding of the theoretical frameworks, practical strategies, and ethical considerations necessary for effective cross-cultural communication in various professional and personal settings.

The course begins by establishing a foundational understanding of cross-cultural communication, introducing students to the key concepts, theories, and models that explain how cultural differences impact communication styles, behaviors, and perceptions. Students will examine significant theories such as Edward T. Hall’s High-Context and Low-Context Cultures, Geert Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions Theory, and Stella Ting-Toomey’s Face-Negotiation Theory, gaining insights into the cultural factors that shape communication.

As the course progresses, students will delve into the practical aspects of cross-cultural communication, exploring the challenges and opportunities presented by language differences, nonverbal communication, and the use of technology in cross-cultural interactions. Special attention will be given to understanding the impact of linguistic diversity, the role of technology in facilitating global communication, and the strategies for overcoming cultural barriers in various contexts, including conflict resolution and professional settings.

In addition to practical skills, COS610 emphasizes the ethical considerations inherent in cross-cultural communication. Students will engage with complex ethical dilemmas that arise when cultural norms and values clash with universal ethical standards. Through case studies and real-world examples, students will develop an ethical framework for navigating these challenges, ensuring that their cross-cultural interactions are both culturally sensitive and ethically sound.

By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding necessary to communicate effectively across cultures. They will be prepared to navigate the challenges of working in multicultural teams, engage in successful cross-cultural negotiations, and contribute to the development of culturally competent organizations in an increasingly interconnected world.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Understand and apply major theories of cross-cultural communication.
• Identify and analyze cultural barriers to communication and develop strategies to overcome them.
• Enhance intercultural competence through practical communication skills, including language adaptation, nonverbal communication, and the use of technology.
• Develop ethical decision-making frameworks for cross-cultural interactions, balancing respect for cultural diversity with universal ethical principles.
• Apply cross-cultural communication strategies in professional settings, including conflict resolution and global business environments.

COS610: Cross-Cultural Communication in Global Contexts

Course Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of COS610, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a deep understanding of cross-cultural communication theories:
• Critically analyze and apply major theories of cross-cultural communication, such as High-Context and Low-Context Cultures, Cultural Dimensions Theory, and Face-Negotiation Theory, to real-world scenarios.
2. Identify and overcome cultural barriers to communication:
• Recognize and evaluate the various cultural barriers that impact communication, including language differences, nonverbal communication styles, and perceptual biases, and develop effective strategies to navigate and overcome these barriers.
3. Enhance intercultural communication skills:
• Apply advanced intercultural communication techniques, including language adaptation, cultural sensitivity in nonverbal communication, and the use of technology, to facilitate effective communication across diverse cultural contexts.
4. Develop and implement ethical frameworks in cross-cultural interactions:
• Analyze complex ethical dilemmas that arise in cross-cultural communication and develop a robust ethical framework that balances respect for cultural differences with adherence to universal ethical standards.
5. Effectively manage cross-cultural conflicts:
• Utilize negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution strategies that are culturally informed to manage and resolve conflicts in multicultural settings, enhancing collaboration and mutual understanding.
6. Apply cross-cultural communication strategies in professional settings:
• Demonstrate the ability to apply cross-cultural communication strategies to various professional environments, including international business, global organizations, and multicultural teams, to improve organizational effectiveness and cultural competence.
7. Leverage technology to enhance cross-cultural communication:
• Utilize digital communication tools and platforms effectively to overcome the challenges of communicating across cultures, while being mindful of the cultural differences in technology use and digital literacy.
8. Cultivate intercultural competence within organizations:
• Develop strategies to promote and foster intercultural competence within global organizations, including through training, mentoring, cross-cultural collaboration, and the promotion of an inclusive organizational culture.
9. Critically evaluate future trends in cross-cultural communication:
• Anticipate and critically assess emerging trends in cross-cultural communication, including advancements in technology and shifts in global cultural dynamics, and prepare to adapt communication strategies accordingly.
10. Reflect on personal cultural biases and their impact on communication:
• Engage in self-reflection to identify and address personal cultural biases, enhancing your ability to interact with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds with greater empathy, openness, and understanding.

These outcomes are designed to equip students with the comprehensive knowledge and skills needed to excel in cross-cultural communication, enabling them to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and culturally diverse world.