COMM311-DEV: The Importance of Intercultural Communication

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4a Explain the strategies of intercultural communication competence (CLO 6)
4b Apply intercultural communication competence strategies (CLO 6)

College professor Dr. Maria Lujan Stasevicius reframes intercultural skills from a niche travel tool to a daily essential for navigating modern life. Because our identities are constantly being perceived and categorized by others, intercultural interaction happens in everyday settings, not just across national borders. Competence is not just about accumulating knowledge; it requires a conscious choice to engage with others with curiosity and an openness to diversity. Success comes from the continuous process of managing different perceptions and challenging stereotypes in real-time interactions. Dr. Stasevicius encourages us to travel and experience cultures different from our own. These travel experiences will broaden our understanding of other cultures as well as our understanding of our own identity. She applies Hofstede's dimensions in this exploration. As you think about your travel experiences, can you identify a situation where you felt someone misperceived your intent because they were focusing on only one part of your identity?

Source: Maria Lujan Stasevicius
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