Cultural Communication Principles: Revision Notes for Course | Trường Đại học Ngoại ngữ, Đại học Đà Nẵng

lOMoARcP SD| 59062190 REVISION
 What are basic principles of culture?
o Respect for Differences: Cultures emphasize the importance of respecting
and valuing the differences in beliefs, values, and traditions.
 Ex: "Don't judge a book by its cover." (English proverb- Đừng đánh
giá một cuốn sách qua trang bìa của nó) o Open-Mindedness: Being open-
minded allows for the acceptance and appreciation of diverse perspectives and ideas.
 Ex: "Two heads are better than one" (English proverb – Hai đầu óc
hơn một đầu óc) o Patience and Tolerance: Cultures often value patience
and tolerance when navigating cultural differences.
 Ex: "Patience is a virtue" (English proverb - Kiên nhẫn là một đức
tính cao quý) o Effective Communication: Clear and respectful
communication is crucial in cross-cultural interactions.
 Ex: "Actions speak louder than words" (English proverb -"Hành
động có tác động lớn hơn lời nói" o Curiosity and Learning: Cultures
encourage curiosity and a willingness to learn about other cultures.
 Ex: "Every day is a school day" (English proverb - Mỗi ngày đều là một ngày học")
1. How important is cross-cultural communication?
- Indeed, cross-cultural communication holds immense significance in our
interconnected and diverse world. Firstly, it facilitates understanding and
empathy among individuals from different cultures, dismantling
stereotypes and fostering appreciation for diverse perspectives.
- Secondly, cross-cultural communication is essential for establishing
successful relationships and collaborations. It enables effective
teamwork, negotiation, and conflict resolution, as individuals with
varying cultural backgrounds can navigate cultural nuances and build trust.
- Thirdly, in the globalized business landscape, cross-cultural
communication is vital for thriving international ventures. It enables
effective communication, adaptation to cultural differences, and the
ability to seize opportunities for growth and success.
- Lastly, engaging in cross-cultural communication enhances personal
growth and learning. It broadens horizons, challenges assumptions, and
cultivates cultural sensitivity, fostering open-mindedness and adaptability
2. What essential principles are applied to cross-cultural communication?
- Cultural Awareness: Developing cultural awareness is crucial. This
involves understanding and appreciating different cultural norms, values,
beliefs, and communication styles. It helps avoid assumptions,
stereotypes, and misunderstandings, fostering respect and empathy.
- Open-mindedness: Approaching cross-cultural communication with an
open mind is essential. Being receptive to new ideas, perspectives, and lOMoARcP SD| 59062190
ways of doing things allows for a deeper understanding of others' cultural
backgrounds and promotes a willingness to adapt and learn.
- Active Listening: Active listening is a fundamental principle of effective
cross-cultural communication. It involves focusing on the speaker,
seeking to understand their message, and acknowledging both verbal and
non-verbal cues. It demonstrates respect and helps build trust and rapport.
- Non-Verbal Communication: Non-verbal cues, such as body language,
facial expressions, and gestures, play a significant role in cross-cultural
communication. Being aware of and interpreting these cues accurately
can help bridge potential communication gaps and enhance understanding.
- Patience and Flexibility: Cross-cultural communication requires patience
and flexibility. Recognizing that different cultures may have different
time orientations, communication styles, and decision-making processes
helps manage expectations and adapt communication approaches accordingly.
- Respect for Diversity: Respecting diversity is a fundamental principle.
Valuing and appreciating different cultural perspectives, beliefs, and
practices fosters an inclusive environment. Avoiding judgment,
stereotypes, and ethnocentrism helps build trust and encourages open dialogue.
- Clarification and Feedback: Seeking clarification and providing feedback
are vital in cross-cultural communication. When in doubt, asking
questions to ensure understanding and providing feedback to ensure
effective communication can help avoid misunderstandings and resolve potential conflicts.
3. Why do people think cultural adjustment can take so long?
 Cultural adjustment is a highly individualized experience. Factors such as prior
exposure to different cultures, personal resilience, and support systems can
influence the length of the adjustment period.
- Cultural Differences: Adapting to a new set of cultural norms, values, and
behaviors takes time and effort.
- Language Barrier: Learning a new language or adjusting to different
linguistic nuances is a challenging and time-consuming task.
- Social Integration: Building social connections and a support network in a
new cultural context requires time to develop relationships and establish a sense of belonging.
- Unfamiliar Environment: Adjusting to a new physical environment, climate,
infrastructure, and daily routines can be overwhelming and take time to become familiar with.
- Cultural Norms and Expectations: Understanding and adhering to a different
set of cultural codes and expectations necessitate observation, learning, and adjustment. lOMoARcP SD| 59062190
- Emotional and Psychological Factors: Coping with homesickness, loneliness,
and a sense of disorientation during cultural adjustment takes time to adapt
and develop coping mechanisms.
- Personal Mindset and Attitude: Embracing a positive and open mindset, being
curious, and willing to learn contribute to a smoother adjustment process but may take time to develop.
4. Distinguish cultural generalization from stereotypes. Give specific examples Cultural Generalization Stereotypes Definition
Making broad assumptions Oversimplified beliefs or
about a culture or group based judgments about a group of
on shared characteristics or people, often based on limited behaviors. or inaccurate information.
- Feature s - Making general statements - Oversimplified beliefs or about a culture or group judgments about a group of based on shared people.
characteristics or behaviors. - Often based on limited or - Provides a basic inaccurate information.
understanding or starting - Can perpetuate biases and
point for exploring a culture. reinforce prejudices. - May oversimplify
or - May lead to discrimination overlook the complexity and or unfair treatment. diversity within a culture.
- Do not capture the full range - Can be a tool for cultural of individual differences analysis and comparison. within a cultural group. Example
"One size doesn't fit all." "Birds of a feather flock
(English proverbs - Không có together." (English proverbs
một kích cỡ phù hợp cho tất cả Ngưu tầm ngưu, mã tầm mã.) mọi người.)
5. What are typical symptoms of culture shock? What should people do to overcome them?
There are some typical symptoms: Homesickness, Inability to work well, too much
eating, drinking or sleeping, Anger toward the members of the new culture, glorifying
the native culture ad emphasizing the negative in the new culture, withdrawal and
advoidance of contact with people from new culture, lack of ability to deal with even small problems.
To overcome culture shock, individuals can take several steps. First, they should educate
themselves about the local culture, customs, and traditions. Building social connections
with the local community and seeking support from fellow expatriates or support groups
can provide a sense of belonging. Engaging in activities that immerse them in the new
culture, practicing self-care, and maintaining communication with loved ones back
home can help alleviate feelings of isolation. Keeping an open mind, embracing the lOMoARcP SD| 59062190
growth opportunities, and seeking professional counseling if needed are additional
strategies for overcoming culture shock.
6. Choose one typical country. Explain some outstanding cultural features and taboos of the country
Japan is renowned for its outstanding cultural features and adherence to certain
taboos. The Japanese culture places a strong emphasis on politeness and respect,
with bowing being a common form of greeting. Collectivism is deeply ingrained,
valuing harmony and collective well-being over individual desires. The traditional
tea ceremony, known as "sado" or "chado," embodies simplicity, mindfulness, and
the appreciation of beauty in everyday life. Cherry blossoms, or "sakura," hold great
cultural significance, and the annual blooming is celebrated with hanami gatherings.
Japan also has its share of taboos, including the custom of removing shoes before
entering homes or specific establishments. Proper chopstick etiquette is crucial,
avoiding sticking them upright in a bowl of rice. Public displays of affection and
blowing one's nose loudly in public are generally considered inappropriate.
7. What are differences between formal communication and informal communication? Formal Communication Informal Communication Purpose - Goal-oriented and Relationship-oriented and taskfocused socially driven Form Typically written Primarily oral or or documented nonverbal Structure
More structured and follows More comfortable and established rules spontaneous Politeness Typically more polite and More familiar and friendly respectful Speed Long, time-consuming Usually quick and easy to navigate Reliability
More reliable, as it follows a Takes off on its own and sets pattern set by the its own course organization Context
Meetings, reports or Casual conversations, chats, presentations or social media interactions. Example Extension request for Hey Prof, can I get an
assignment. Need extra time extension on the due to unforeseen issues. assignment? Ran into some Requesting
two-day unexpected problems. Need extension. Thank you a couple more days. lOMoARcP SD| 59062190 Thanks!
8. What are major differences between oral communication and written communication? Oral communication Written communication Possitive
Instant feedback and non-verbal Clarity and precision through
cues enhance understanding and careful crafting, and a permanent
build rapport. For example, record for reference and
immediate responses in a accountability. For instance,
meeting facilitate clarifications well-written emails can convey
and an engaging tone conveys detailed instructions or serve as enthusiasm. legal documentation.
Negative Lack of permanence may lead to Limited immediate interaction
information loss, while reliance on may cause delays in obtaining memory can result
in responses or clarifications, while misinterpretation or errors.
the absence of non-verbal cues can sometimes lead to
misinterpretation or ambiguity.
9. What does “the complexity of people’s cultural identity” mean?
Explain the four settings of cultural resources.
"The complexity of people's cultural identity" refers to the multi-faceted nature of
an individual's cultural background and experiences. It is similar to an iceberg with
a surface and a bottom, representing the sides of society with many individuals with
unique personalities or even anomalies, creating complexity. It recognizes that
cultural identity is shaped by factors like ethnicity, nationality, language, religion, and social affiliations.
The four settings of cultural resources are:
• Individual Setting: Unique cultural characteristics and experiences that shape an individual's identity.
• Family Setting: Cultural resources inherited and shared within a family unit.
• Community Setting: Cultural resources available within a specific community or social group.
• Societal Setting: Broader cultural context at a regional, national, or global
level, including laws, institutions, and societal norms.
10.What does silence indicate in conversation?
Silence in conversation can have multiple meanings, and its interpretation depends
on the context and individuals involved
- Active Listening: Silence can indicate attentive listening. When someone
remains quiet, it suggests they are actively processing and absorbing the
information being communicated. lOMoARcP SD| 59062190
- Disagreement or Discomfort: Silence can signify disagreement or discomfort
with the topic at hand. It may imply that the person is hesitant to express their
thoughts, or they may be withholding their opinion due to differing
perspectives or potential conflict.
- Emotional Response: Silence can indicate a strong emotional reaction. It may
occur when someone is overwhelmed, shocked, or deeply affected by the
conversation. Silence allows them to process their emotions before responding.
- Power Dynamics: Silence can be a strategic tool used to assert power or
control. By remaining silent, a person may create tension or dominance in the
conversation, attempting to influence the direction or outcome. 11. Culture
does not explain all behavior. Explain this
Culture is an important factor in shaping behavior, but it does not account for all
human actions. Individual differences, personal experiences, and situational factors
also play significant roles. People's unique characteristics and life experiences
influence their behavior alongside cultural norms. Situational factors and immediate
environments can override or modify cultural influences. Moreover, cultural
variations within a society lead to diverse behaviors among individuals. While
culture provides a framework for understanding behavior, it is essential to recognize
the impact of individual differences, personal experiences, and situational factors on
human behavior. Therefore, culture does not offer a complete explanation for all
actions, as other factors contribute to the complexities of human behavior.
12.What are basic elements of where we come from?
The basic elements of where we come from encompass various aspects that
contribute to our origins and identity:
- Geographic Origin: This refers to the physical location or region where an
individual or their ancestors are from. It includes the natural environment,
climate, and landscape that shape their early experiences and cultural practices.
- Cultural Heritage: Cultural heritage encompasses the traditions, customs,
beliefs, and values passed down through generations. It includes language,
art, music, cuisine, celebrations, and other cultural expressions that are
integral to a person's identity.
- Family and Ancestry: Our family and ancestry play a vital role in shaping
who we are. Our familial lineage, genealogy, and the stories passed down
within our families provide a sense of belonging and connection to our roots.
- Historical Context: The historical context of our place of origin influences
our identity. It includes significant historical events, social movements, and
cultural developments that have shaped the society and collective consciousness of the region.
- Social and Economic Factors: Social and economic factors, such as social
class, socioeconomic status, and access to resources, also contribute to our
identity and opportunities. The social and economic conditions of our place lOMoARcP SD| 59062190
of origin can influence our upbringing, values, and opportunities for personal growth.
13.How many class roon seating arrangements are there? What are they?
Which is preferable for language learning?
- There are 19 class room seating arrangements: Traditional Rows, Clusters or
Pods, U-shaped, Semi-circle, Theater Style, Horseshoe or Circle, Dual Rows,
Herringbone, Collaborative Tables, Standing Desks, Lounge Seating,
Fishbowl (Inner and Outer Circles), Group Tables, Triangle or Triangular,
Diamond or Diamond-shaped, Checkerboard, T-shape or T-shaped,
Semicircular or Half-moon, Zigzag or Wavy Lines
- For language learning, a seating arrangement that encourages interaction and
communication is preferable. Settings like clusters/pods, U-shaped, or
horseshoe/circle arrangements are more suitable as they facilitate student-to-
student interaction and allow for group discussions, role-plays, and language
practice. These arrangements create a supportive and communicative
environment, enhancing language learning through peer interaction and active engagement.
14.What are the main advantages and disadvantages of globalization? Advantages Disadvantages
- Economic growth and expanded - Income inequality and job markets displacement
- Access to a wider range of goods
- Exploitation of labor in some and services regions
- Cultural exchange and innovation
- Environmental degradation and
- Technological advancements and resource depletion improved living standards
- Cultural homogenization and loss of - International cooperation local traditions for addressing global
- Economic vulnerability to global challenges crises 15.Exlain a certain proverb lOMoARcP SD| 59062190
"Actions speak louder than words" is a proverb that can be related to cross-cultural
communication. This proverb emphasizes the significance of non-verbal cues and
behaviors in conveying meaning, often surpassing the impact of spoken language alone.
In cross-cultural communication, where language and cultural differences may exist,
relying solely on verbal communication can be challenging. The proverb suggests
that one's actions and non-verbal expressions, such as body language, facial
expressions, and gestures, can convey messages that are more powerful and
universally understood than words alone.
When engaging in cross-cultural communication, it is essential to pay attention to
non-verbal cues, as they often provide valuable insights into the true meaning behind
a person's words. Understanding and appropriately responding to nonverbal signals
can enhance mutual understanding, bridge cultural gaps, and foster effective
communication across diverse cultural contexts.
16.Distinguish a melting pot from a mosaic. Give specific examples
The terms "melting pot" and "mosaic" are often used to describe different
approaches to cultural diversity and integration.
A melting pot implies a blending or assimilation of different cultures into a
homogeneous whole. In this concept, diverse cultural identities are expected to
merge, resulting in a unified culture. An example of a melting pot approach is seen
in the United States, where immigrants from various backgrounds have historically
been encouraged to adopt American values and practices while leaving behind their original cultural identities.
On the other hand, a mosaic represents a celebration of diverse cultures coexisting
harmoniously while maintaining their distinct identities. It emphasizes the
preservation and appreciation of individual cultural heritage within a larger societal
framework. Canada is often cited as an example of a mosaic, where diverse cultures,
languages, and traditions are recognized and respected, allowing each community
to maintain its unique identity while contributing to the multicultural fabric of the nation.
While both concepts aim to address cultural diversity, the melting pot emphasizes
assimilation, while the mosaic emphasizes cultural preservation and coexistence.
17.Distinguish formal communication from infromal communication Formal communication Informal communication Structure
Formal communication follows a Informal communication is and rules
prescribed structure and specific more flexible and spontaneous,
rules. It typically adheres to lacking rigid rules or structures. established protocols, It occurs naturally hierarchies, and formalities. in social interactions and everyday lOMoARcP SD| 59062190 Purpose
It is used for official or It is primarily used for personal and
professional purposes within or social purposes, allowing context
organizations, institutions, or individuals to connect, build
formal settings. It is often relationships, share personal
taskoriented and related to work experiences, or exchange responsibilities. casual information. Language
Formal communication employs Informal communication and tone
formal language, professional utilizes casual language,
terminology, and often uses colloquial expressions, and
written communication channels informal channels like
such as official letters, reports, or conversations, chats, or social
formal meetings. The tone is media. The tone is often
typically polite, respectful, and relaxed, friendly, and reflects
follows a professional code of the personalities and conduct. relationships of the participants.
18.How many kind of conversational distance are there? Explain them
There are four kinds of conversational distance:
- Intimate Distance: This is the closest distance and typically ranges from
0 to 18 inches (0 to 46 centimeters). It is reserved for very close
relationships, such as between family members or intimate partners.
Physical contact, such as hugging or touching, is common within this distance.
- Personal Distance: Personal distance extends from approximately 18
inches to 4 feet (46 to 122 centimeters). It is suitable for interactions with
close friends and family members. This distance allows for more relaxed
and informal conversations while still maintaining a sense of personal space.
- Social Distance: Social distance spans from 4 to 12 feet (122 to 366
centimeters). It is the distance typically observed in formal or professional
settings, such as business meetings or interviews. Social distance allows
for a level of formality and respect while still providing individuals with their personal space.
- Public Distance: Public distance begins at 12 feet (366 centimeters) and
extends beyond. It is the distance maintained during public speaking
engagements, lectures, or large gatherings. This distance provides a sense
of separation between the speaker and the audience, allowing for clear communication and visibility.