Journal 1.1: The Study of Intercultural Communication

Journal 1.1: The Study of Intercultural Communication

In this course, you will keep a journal so you can reflect upon what you have learned. It is one running document you will add to in each unit — the first time you open it, follow the instructions there to set up your journal template.

Writing under the Journal 1.1 — The Study of Intercultural Communication heading, respond to these questions:

1. You've now read about several reasons – or imperatives – for studying intercultural communication. Choose the reason/imperative that most closely reflects your own reason(s) for studying intercultural communication and write one or two paragraphs that explain your motivation for studying intercultural communication.
2. Consider an instance in which you didn't intend to communicate a message, but someone saw your behavior as communication. How did this person misinterpret your behavior? What were the consequences? What did you say and/or do to correct the misperception?
3. Recall an interaction that took a sudden turn for the worse. How did each person's communication contribute to the change? What are some of the variables that affect meaning? What did you say or do to deal with the situation?
4. What is competent intercultural communication? What is the difference between competent intercultural communication and effective intercultural communication? Can I be effective and not competent?

Open your course journal