Intercultural Communication

This course introduces students to the principles of intercultural communication. More specifically, it focuses on the notions of culture and civilization. Conceptualization and analysis are carried out on various levels (e.g., national, local, organizational). Several cultural dimensions are discussed (e.g., Hofstede, Hall, Trompenaars, Lewis, etc.). The course also focuses on

the characteristics of verbal and non-verbal communication in culturally and linguistically diverse environments. Factors that influence intercultural communication are addressed. The reasons why cultural stereotypes and biases are created are discussed. Finally, much emphasis is placed on how one can cultivate his/her intercultural awareness and overall communication skills. 

Upon successful completion of the course, the students will be able to:

• more adequately understand the notions of civilization and culture
• understand the notions of cultural dimensions and how they help us understand cultural characteristics
• critically reflect on issues pertaining to cultural stereotypes, perceptions, racism
• understand the characteristics of verbal and non-verbal communication in
• culturally and linguistically diverse environments
• cultivate their intercultural communication competence 

Week 1: Course Overview, Introduction to the notions of Culture & Civilization

Week 2: Introduction to Intercultural Communication

Week 3: Cultural Dimensions

Week 4: Case Studies, Principles of Oral Presentations and Academic Writing

Week 5: Verbal and Non-verbal Communication in multicultural settings

Week 6: Oral Presentations-Reflection

Week 7: Oral Presentations-Reflection

Week 8: Stereotypes, Perceptions, Cultural Shock

Week 9: Developing effective intercultural communication competence

Week 10: Intercultural sensitivity

Week 11: Intercultural challenges in relationships, at work, in society

Week 12: Selected topics: Intercultural communication and current affairs

Week 13: Course review and critical evaluation

Liu, S., Volcιc, Z., Gallois, C. (2018). Εισαγωγή στη Διαπολιτισμική Επικοινωνία: Παγκόσμιοι πολιτισμοί και πλαίσια. Αθήνα: Gutenberg (Επιμελήτρια: Ευγενία Αρβανίτη, Μεταφραστής: Αδριανός Φριλίγγος) (ISBN 9789600119695).

Karras, I. (2020). The Culture and Communication Interface. Αθήνα: Εκδόσεις Δίαυλος (ISBN 9789605314521).

Selected Articles

Face-to-face, Distance learning (synchronous and asynchronous).

Use of ICT in teaching and communicating with the students.

Group Assignment-Oral Presentation: 50%

Individual Assignment-Written Essay: 50%

There are specifically-defined evaluation criteria given and are accessible to students on open e-class along with the rubrics of their assignment.