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Intercultural Communication in the Japanese Language Classroom in Singapore: A Comparison of Students’ and Teachers’ Perceptions
Abstract: Exploring the communicative behavior of teachers and students in the Japanese language classroom in Singapore is one important way of looking at intercultural communication between Japanese and Singaporeans. Ease in effective communication is often hindered by differences in expectations resulting in communication gaps. In this study, attempts were made to explore the differences in perceptions held by students and Japanese teachers of (i) a... [...] Read more
Do media matter? A social construction model of stereotypes of foreigner
Abstract: In an attempt to build on and make more complete existing models of stereotype formation, which have largely been cognitive in nature, this paper proposes a social construction model of stereotypes of foreigners, which includes a number of social factors, and in particular, the media, where media is defined as a complex variable composed of several exposure, nature of sources, content, and perceived effect. [...] Read more
Traditional Mapuche education. Contribution for an Intercultural Education
Abstract: The intercultural education is presented as an initiative of our society to incorporate ethnic groups in the vision of the world, which is constructed through education. Unfortunately, the main contribution that the ancestral cultures make to the curriculum is based on some idiomatic aspects and cultural manifestations (rites and ceremonies). According to our point of view, this vision is rather restricted, because it ignores or does not know... [...] Read more
A Linguistics for Ethnography. Why Not Second Languaculture Learning and Translation?
Abstract: Language and ethnography have always gone hand in hand. In this article two kinds of linguistics are explored that seem to have a close relationship to ethnography, namely, second languaculture learning and translation theory. The article shows how the former resembles the ethnographic research process while the latter is similar to the usual ethnographic product. The irony is that neither of these two kinds of linguistics have played much of... [...] Read more
The Image of Europe as Advertised in Russia
Abstract: This contribution analyses the image of Europe passed on in current TV-advertising in Russia. This image is only understandable in the context of the current social discussions about national identity and builds on the national self-images. While Russia is very markedly different to Europe in terms of size and importance, tradition and history as well as community and shared identity, the image of Europe is depicted as a homogenous,... [...] Read more
Cultural Fluency as a Guide to Effective Intercultural Communication: The Case of Japan and the U.S.
Abstract: Intercultural communication serves a vital role in that it can forestall miscommunication and misunderstanding. Because of increased intercultural contact and interdependence, people in the world are forced to "rethink" intercultural communication in order to acquire effective intercultural communication competence. The present paper provides a critical discussion of the conceptualization of intercultural communication and the commonly... [...] Read more
A Longitudinal study on intercultural awareness and Foreign Language acquisition in the Netherlands
Abstract: In a longitudinal study we assessed the effect of a four-year International Business Communication program at a university in the Netherlands on students’ intercultural awareness and foreign language acquisition. In pre-test and post-test a measurement instrument featuring everyday (monocultural and intercultural) dialogues involving business associates was used to assess intercultural awareness in a group of 39 students. In addition,... [...] Read more
Obstacles to Innovative Interaction: Communication Management in Culturally Diverse Organizations
Abstract: Cultural diversity has often been described as yielding competitive advantages like, for example, innovation resulting from the combination of different cultural perspectives. However, there are also substantial organizational problems related to managing cultural diversity, which need to be overcome in order for diversity to be a useful asset. Based on an empirical study of Danish multicultural companies, this article argues that the... [...] Read more
Introducing non-verbal communication to Japanese university students
Abstract: Non-verbal communication is an important aspect to teach Japanese English language students if they are to communicate effectively in English. The purpose of this research is to determine which aspects of non-verbal communication would be important to teach Japanese university students studying English. Literature regarding Japanese use of non-verbal communication is described and used as a basis to determine aspects of non-verbal which would... [...] Read more
Power in Intercultural Education: "Education in Bolivia – from Oppression to Liberation"?
Abstract: In this article I will consider the discussion on the educational system in Bolivia. Education is a potentially powerful way of communication. The educational reform of 1994 was a radical reform making it possible for the Indigenous peoples to receive education in their native languages. Nevertheless the government of Evo Morales abolished it as soon as they were in position, starting the process of making a new law with the slogan... [...] Read more
The Discourse of Philanthropy in Italy and The United States: A Case Study of Interparadigmatic Translation.
Abstract: This paper discusses translation of texts about nonprofit organizations from English into Italian as a case study of intercultural communication. Firstly, we note the importance of adaptation as a valuable strategy for translation of nonprofit texts from English into Italian. Secondly, we describe the intercultural difference between the nonprofit sector in Italy and the United States in terms of paradigms, following Kuhn’s theory of... [...] Read more
Speaking to Domestics in Lebanon: Power Issues or Misguided Communication?
Abstract: The Lebanese use a combination of Arabic and English telegraphic speech, along with gestures and other forms of speech adjustments to address their domestics. This pattern of inadequate speech is based on the misconception that domestics understand exactly the same way they speak. Using interviews, questionnaires, and participant observations, the researchers identified some of the underlying issues, power and trust, related to this form of... [...] Read more
Cultural Marginality: Exploration of Self-Esteem and Cross Cultural Adaptation of the Marginalized Individual: An investigation of the second generation Hare Krishnas .
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to explore the cross-cultural adaptation of a sample of adults raised in the Hare Krishna culture. Fifteen second generation ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) adults were asked to describe their family, peer, and social interactions and the perceived impact on their cross-cultural adaptation. An analysis of participant responses generated the following fifteen themes: (1) age and context of... [...] Read more
An Exploratory Study of “Fairness” in Educational Settings —American and Japanese University Students—.
Abstract: This paper deals with differences and similarities in the perception of "fairness" in e ducational settings between American and Japanese university students. First, data was collected through open-ended questionnaires and interviews as to the words and actions of Native English-Speaking (NES) teachers that Japanese students regarded as unfair, and those of Japanese students that American teachers found to be unfair. Based on the responses, a... [...] Read more
Rules and regulations: is culture-learning like language -acquisition?
Abstract: The article attempts to tease apart Regulative, Constitutive, Prescriptive and Descriptive Rules, and pinpoints their respective role in First and Second Language Acquisition as well as in Culture Learning. It is proposed that the proportion of Regulative Rules is generally under-estimated, while the incidence of Constitutive Rules tends to be over-estimated. The paper puts forward the Rule Category Substitution Fallacy, a hypothesis... [...] Read more
Fables and ICT: Intercultural Communication and E-Language Teaching.
Abstract: This paper presents an experimental workshop held as part of an annual university teacher training course directed at Italian teachers involved in teaching Italian as a second language in multicultural classes mainly from primary and secondary schools. Its objective is to train teachers in an intercultural methodology through the use of fables and fairy tales as they have been proven to be an educational tool with a great intercultural power... [...] Read more
Culture, Common Knowledge and Post-Conflict Reconstruction.
Abstract: Post-conflict reconstruction is one of the most relevant policy issues in the world today. It is argued that widespread coordination characterizes a successful reconstruction. Critical to this outcome is common knowledge among citizens, which facilitates the coordination of activities on a set of beliefs aligning with the aims of reconstruction. The nature of common knowledge in the post-conflict context and its importance in coordinating... [...] Read more
Student Language Teachers as Intercultural Learners in CMC-Based Project Work
Abstract: This paper emerged from a larger study and analyzes the reflections of a transatlantic group of future language teachers who communicated with each other via the bulletin board and chat functions of FirstClass ® to design a joint website module. The author employs the Grounded Theory method and engages in action research in order to identify and analyze instances displaying cross-cultural engagement. Data triangulation... [...] Read more
Intercultural Communication in Letters of Recommendation
Abstract: The letter of recommendation (LR) as a means to communicate across different cultures for the purpose of applying for entering a university can be problematic. Using contrastive rhetoric analytic framework, this paper compares LRs written by Chinese and English native speaker professionals. Discussion of culturally situated interpretations of the LRs is based on interviews with university professors who have been on the admission committee.... [...] Read more
Identity’s Playground: Linking Second Language Use with Strategic Competence.
Abstract: This case study examines how a French immigrant of Senegalese descent negotiates his L2 identity at a multicultural and multilingual workplace environment in the United States. The article is the result of a six-month qualitative case study in which the subject was shadowed and interviewed at his place of employment. The study explores the relationship between strategic competence and social identity and examines how the participant’s social... [...] Read more
An Investigation of Chinese Students´Difficulties in Intercultural Communication and its Role in Elt.
Abstract: This study discusses the intercultural communication competence of Chinese students who were studying at an Australian University. The study specifically explores the frequency of interactions between Chinese students and students from other countries; the difficulties they encountered and the reasons they attributed to these difficulties. Research results, derived from questionnaires and interviews, reveal that the Chinese students... [...] Read more
Collaborating and Communicating Online: A Cross-Bordered Intercultural Project between Taiwan and the U.S.
Abstract: This study explored the collaborative process of an online cross-cultural communication project between Taiwan and the U.S. The behaviors of the cross-cultural teams were analyzed and compared. The results indicated that the U.S. participants enjoyed interacting with their group members more, had developed a better sense of community, and were more comfortable with online communication. However, more of the U.S. participants lurked online. It... [...] Read more
Nonverbal Affiliative Phenomena in Mandarin Chinese Conversation
Abstract: Based on naturally occurring audio-video data collected from university campus settings, this study has identified four nonverbal actions ¾ zhùshì "gaze", diantóu "head nods", wexiao "gentle smile" and shouchù " hand touch" employed by Mandarin Chinese speakers in their interpersonal communication. Detailed data analysis and discussion reveal how Mandarin Chinese speakers manage their affiliation and attachment nonverbally with the... [...] Read more
Addressing the Consumer in Standardised Advertisements: Linguistic Cues in French and Finnish Technology Products’ Advertising Texts.
Abstract: The complexity of the challenges in global marketing communications which concern technology products arise from e.g. geographical variations, trends in globalisation and the evolutionary changes of technologies. In response to this complex environment multinational companies need to find a balance between adaptation and standardisation to achieve effective advertising. We explore linguistic cues used to address the consumer in standardised... [...] Read more
Accidental Humor in International Public Notices Displayed in English
Abstract: This paper examines accidental humor as it manifests itself in international public notices displayed in English. It shows that accidental humor, just like intentional humor, essentially stems from script opposition and script overlap (Raskin, 1985). However, it lacks intentionality, which plays a key role in contrived humor. In this way, accidental humor is based on the interaction between the text and the receiver, apart from the producer.... [...] Read more
A Comparative Look at Scandinavian Cultures: Denmark, Norway and Sweden and Their Encounters with German Refugees, 1933-1940.
Abstract: This article is a comparative study that points to the differences between national cultures in Scandinavia, as they are reconstructed from source material left over from the encounter between Scandinavian insiders and German outsiders in the pre-World War II period. This article uses a variety of memoirs, notes, interviews, and other records produced by German refugees in Scandinavia, and by Scandinavians who encountered German refugees in... [...] Read more
Politeness in Intercultural Email Communication: Australian and Korean Perspectives
Abstract: This paper presents initial results from analysis of data collected on the topic of politeness in intercultural email communication from a large cohort of Australian academic and general staff at an established metropolitan university. We were interested in the language used by these staff members while they conducted their initial email communication with their contacts overseas. The contacts overseas were, for example, fellow professional... [...] Read more
Changing intercultural attitudes over time
Abstract: Diversity is increasing within the Europe, and in Portugal in particular, and higher education will likely play a key role in preparing people to function in this new environment. This study assessed the effectiveness of an Intercultural Relations course at changing student levels of attitudes towards diversity and feelings of self-worth. The results indicated that the course had a positive impact on the multicultural ideology and increased... [...] Read more
Cultural communication styles and accuracy in cross-cultural perception: A British and Japanese study
Abstract: This study examines the effects of cultural communication styles on cross-cultural perceptual accuracy. In Experiment 1, the communication accuracy of British and Japanese participants was assessed within their own cultures and compared across five interpersonal contexts: age, competition, intimacy, kinship and status. The results showed that the British were significantly more accurate on intimacy scenes while the Japanese were significantly... [...] Read more
Community of Practice Involvement Obligations.
Abstract: One way of studying group involvement is through the paradigm of communities of practice (CofP) (Lave 1988, Lave & Wenger 1991). Students on university campuses are simultaneously members of various CofPs. This article investigates the CofPs Japanese students were involved in while studying in the United States. It found that the whole notion of CofP involvement is framed (Bateson 1972; Tannen & Wallet 1993) differently by Japanese.... [...] Read more
Investigating culturally-oriented fear appeals in public information documents on HIV/AIDS
Abstract: Two public information texts including different fear appeals aimed at AIDS prevention were evaluated by participants from three countries: 147 participants came from the Netherlands, 109 from Spain and 179 from South Africa (varying ethnical backgrounds). The results of the experiment suggest that HIV/AIDS communication that emphasizes the severity of the disease and the vulnerability of the target audience can be successful, provided that... [...] Read more
Dimensions of Success in International Business Negotiations: A Comparative Study of Thai and International Business Negotiators
Abstract: The success of international business relationships depends on effective business negotiations. Negotiators need to be well prepared. Understanding how to achieve international business negotiation outcomes and the factors relevant to the process will allow negotiators to be more successful. Based on theories of negotiation with a cultural focus, this study focuses on the dimensions of negotiating outcomes and process as perceived by Thai and... [...] Read more
Wearing the Hijab: An argument for moderate selective acculturation of newly immigrated Arab-American women
Abstract: The goal of this research is to examine how Arab women newly emigrated to the United States struggle to decide how to blend with or into the fabric of this country while still retaining their culture, language and religion in a manner that is comfortable and acceptable to them. All the interviewees were Arab/Muslim women from the countries of Iraq and Lebanon. The research also examines the conflict among Muslim women over the decision as to... [...] Read more
Intercultural Transformation and Second Language Socialization
Abstract: In order to make a fuller interpretation of second language socialization processes in intercultural communication contexts, this study looks into the basic assumptions of language socialization and the tenets of intercultural transformation studies before arguing for the feasibility of weaving the two research paradigms to create a more inclusive theoretical framework of intercultural language socialization. An elaboration of such a... [...] Read more
Internationalisation, intercultural communication and intercultural competence
Abstract: This article assumes that the internationalization of higher education demands more elaborate pedagogical approaches to utilise the experiences of multiethnic student groups and to facilitate every student’s acquisition of intercultural competencies. Drawing from three internationalisation ideologies embedded in the educational discourse, it is argued that intercultural communication – as a field of study or a discipline – can play a key role... [...] Read more
Resilience in a Cross-Cultural Perspective: How resilience is generated in different cultures
Abstract: In this study I will explore how resilience is related to culture. Do different cultures generate resilience in different ways? As a background I present a model of resilience developed from a review of a number of studies as well as my own research. This model shows how the various protective factors can be divided into three main groups, and how different combinations of these factors develop resilience through some basic psychological... [...] Read more
Causal Attributions for Industrial Accidents: A Culture-Comparative Analysis
Abstract: Theory and research on causal attribution have primarily focused on Western population samples. Given the important cultural differences that have been noted between Western (individualistic) and Eastern (collectivistic) cultures, l undertook a cross-cultural comparative analysis of causality attributions related to serious accidents between Ghanaian and Finnish industrial workers. The data comprised 529 participants: 73 victims, 65... [...] Read more
Japanese: A Heavily Culture-Laden Language
Abstract: Language and culture are interdependent. The uniqueness of the Japanese society makes Japanese language a heavily culture-laden one, which contributes much to the language barrier between Japanese and Americans. It is compulsory that many cultural concepts must be integrated into comparative studies so they can be better understood from a cross-cultural perspective, and communication between Japanese and Americans must always be carried out... [...] Read more
Sensemaking and Identity Development: Different Fields, Similar Processes, but How?
Abstract: The following article examines sensemaking and the minority/majority identity development models as processual theories. While these theories are offered in different concentrations of Speech Communication (i.e., Organizational Communication and Intercultural Communication respectively), they are actually interrelated concepts that share similarities. Sensemaking is a process where individuals attempt to understand unknown elements because of... [...] Read more
In a cultural No Man’s Land – or, how long does culture shock last?
Abstract: This essay is an attempt to combine theories of sojourner adaptation with the qualitative results of my field work among Scottish immigrants in Copenhagen. I argue that theories of acculturation often presuppose a limited time-frame; that the usefulness of Lysgaard’s acculturation model may be questioned; and that companies lose valuable intercultural competence by recalling sojourners before they have completed their process of integration.... [...] Read more
A Cross-cultural Communication Experience at a Higher Education Institution in Taiwan
Abstract: This paper describes an online cross-cultural communication experience of a group of Taiwanese college students. Overall, students reported having more confidence in communication and gaining cross-cultural communication skills after participating in this project. The acquisition of cross-cultural communication skills was positively related to the motivation to succeed in the project and the sense of community developed within the online... [...] Read more
Covering the war in Iraq: Frame choices in American and German national newspapers
Abstract: Coverage during conflicts with threatening potential put a pressing note on accurate information about and interpretation of events. When delivering news worldwide, national spotlights as well as cross-cultural notions are set to create unique themes of interest. Those frames - offered by mass media - are vital organizing concepts to establish public agendas. The ambiguously perceived warfare on Iraq was chosen to identify differences in... [...] Read more
How Do Ukrainians Communicate? (Observations Based upon Youth Population of Kyiv)
Abstract: The paper examines communication patterns of contemporary Ukrainians, represented by a group of 18-30-year-old residents of Kyiv, the capital city. The methods of interview, participant-observation and introspection are used to uncover some nationally specific traits of communication, which are given a superficial or inaccurate coverage in a big number of sources devoted to Ukraine. In addition to the outline of modern Ukrainians’ behaviour... [...] Read more
American University Students’ Apology Strategies: An Intercultural Analysis of the Effect of Gender
Abstract: This study aims at investigating potential gender effects in American university students’ use of apologies within the framework of the two-culture theory which claims that men and women are so different that they comprise strikingly different cultures. The researchers used a 10-item questionnaire based on Sugimoto’s (1997). The findings revealed that male and female respondents used the primary apology strategies of statement of remorse,... [...] Read more
The cross-cultural business communication project or expoiting ICT to facilitate ICC
Abstract: The paper relates the experience gathered in the area of intercultural awareness raising with respect to methods and approaches used in the classroom and in terms of students’ response. The developments related were an integral part of an EU - Leonardo da Vinci Programme sponsored project in which learning of Business English has been carried out through an integrated skills approach in a series of virtual workshops. Within the CCBC project... [...] Read more
Attention to Cultural Imperialism beneath Discourse Implicature in International Business Communication
Abstract: Based on case studies of the author’s first-hand experience, this paper calls attention to the awareness of cultural imperialism by the exploration of discourse implicature in business context across cultures. It is assumed by analysis that the cultural imperialism exists verbally, textually or non-verbally through the behavior of individual interlocutors, who preserve an outdated awareness of cultural-goods against cultural-humble. The... [...] Read more
Universities and student values across nations
Abstract: Over the past decade universities have become increasingly global. International contacts, cooperation, exchange and communication is used for benchmarking research and teaching. English-speaking universities,in particular, are actively recruiting huge numbers of foreign students to increase the pool of paying and qualified students. At Copenhagen Business School, a significant number of students (5-10%) are on exchange - in and out -every... [...] Read more
The effects of cultural awareness on nonverbal perceptual accuracy: British and Japanese training programmes
Abstract: Nonverbal perception training was carried out with British and Japanese university students. The main aim of the training was to examine whether increasing cultural awareness in nonverbal communication styles leads to an improvement in within- and cross-cultural perceptual accuracy. The perceptual assessment was carried out using the British and Japanese Social Perception Task (BJSPT) which is based on the Interpersonal Perception Task ( IPT)... [...] Read more
Conscius recognition of the limitations of human knowledge as the foundation of effective intercultural communication
Abstract: In the ever-smaller contemporary world, intercultural communication plays an increasingly important role. This paper discusses how to set the contents of a relevant package of university courses, which, while giving appropriate attention to practical solutions of intercultural communication problems, at the same time strongly emphasizes the final limitations of all human philosophical, religious, ideological, and even scientific... [...] Read more
Being a Non-Swedish Physician in Sweden: A Comparison of the Views on Work Related Communication of Non-Swedish Physicians and Swedish Health Care Personnel
Abstract: Sweden is rapidly changing from being a monocultural to a multicultural society. The effects of this process can also be seen in health care which has, up till now, been one of the most ethnically and gender segregated working places, compared to the industrial sector. Increasing multiculturality places the issue of intercultural communication on top of the agenda for Swedish society in general and for the health care sector in particular.... [...] Read more
Public authorities speak about immigrants
Abstract: In this article the discourse of immigrants at different authorities is studied. I have collected data from different authorities, the police authorities, the employment office, the social welfare service and the social insurance office in a medium-sized municipality in Sweden. Persons, who in their working as professionals meet immigrants, have answered an inquiry about feelings and thoughts about their meetings. With the data from these... [...] Read more
Professionalism in Intercultural Job Interviews?
Abstract: This is a slightly revised manuscript from my keynote speech at the NIC conference 2003 in Göteborg, Sweden. The aim of the speech was to put forward research towards a critical intercultural multiperspectivism in order to understand professional intercultural communication in multicultural societies. This will be discussed in relation to a case, a job interview with an untrained Danish interviewer and a Chinese candidate. In this written... [...] Read more
Learning more about cultures through free word association data
Abstract: The paper is discussing some issues connected with verbal codes of communication. It re-introduces one of the experimental methods of cultural studies. The author shows the opportunities provided by the use of free word association experiment in cultural, cross- and intercultural analyses. To investigate how languages reflect differences in the cultural values of the Americans and of the Belarusians the author compares the free word... [...] Read more
Speech acts as intercultural danger zones: A cross-cultural comparison of the speech act of apologising in Irish and Chilean soap operas
Abstract: Intercultural communication presents many challenges and one of them refers to the need to create awareness about the importance of understanding speech acts cross-culturally. Speech acts are what the writer or speaker is doing in uttering a particular form of words, and their focus is on meaning (speaker's intention). The recognition of the meaning of a particular speech act in a given cultural setting is at the heart of successful... [...] Read more
Managing migration: The applied psychology of international transitions
Abstract: Fact: Placing a skilled executive overseas for a three-year contract can cost as much as US$ 1 million. Fact: A significant number of overseas sojourns fail, leading to premature repatriation. Fact: Psychological adjustment to the new culture is the make or break of cross-cultural transitions. Managing migration successfully is, therefore, crucial. The paper will introduce the Mensana Model of Managing Migration. According to the model,... [...] Read more
How "refugees" became "illegal migrants": Constuction, Reconstruction, … Deconstruction
Abstract: In 1998, Marjeta Doupona Horvat, Jef Verschueren, and myself published a booklet The pragmatics of legitimation: The rhetoric of refugee policies in Slovenia. The book discusses an episode in Slovenian public rhetoric, historically situated roughly as a one-year time span from April 1992 to March 1993, and topically defined in terms of "refugee policies". The approach was a pragmatic text analysis in a tradition of empirical ideology... [...] Read more
A Cross-cultural Study of Preferences for Popular Music Among Hong Kong and Thailand Youths
Abstract: The main purpose of this study is to explore popular music preferences among young people in Hong Kong and Thailand. The survey was conducted between June and November 2003. It includes a short questionnaire concerning participants' musical habits, a listening test comprising fifteen excerpts from popular songs in Cantonese, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Spanish, and English and interview questions about musical preferences and... [...] Read more
Communicative prerequisites for diversity - protection of difference or promotion of commonality?
Abstract: A basic dilemma faces the student of intercultural communication: Should communicative norms that protect substantial differences guide intercultural encounters? Or should formal rules of communication be promoted regardless of the interlocutors' cultural backgrounds and group affiliations? In this article arguments for and against these two positions are presented through a review of the discussion between Charles Taylor and Jürgen Habermas.... [...] Read more
Developing Intercultural Competence as Part of Professional Qualifications. A Training Experiment
Abstract: The internationalization and globalization of working life sets specific requirements on professional education including professionally integrated foreign language education, the overall goal of which should be intercultural competence. The paper discusses a training experiment in intercultural communication, especially the effectiveness of training in developing the various components of intercultural competence. The training experiment... [...] Read more
The relevance of culture-specific conceptualisation for organisational management: a cross-cultural study on the difference between German and Swedish organisational concepts
Abstract: The article deals with the question how culture-specific ways of conceptualising (thinking) play a role in organisational and management theory from the perspective of cognitive linguistics. Not only does this paper question the widespread idea that the language of science and economics is universally the same and that communication across cultural borders can be managed just by means of a lingua franca. This paper also shows by comparison of... [...] Read more
Intercultural communication or parallel cultures? The Swiss example with special regard to the Rhaeto-Romance situation
Abstract: Politically correct terminology often fails to describe actual reality. Switzerland is commonly held up as an example of accomplished multiculturalism and multilingualism. Although appealing, this image is also fairly erroneous as the German majority and French "dominant" minority seem to live separate lives. Likewise, Italian and Rhaeto-Romance are generally marginalized and rarely either spoken or understood by the French- and... [...] Read more
Intercultural Competencies as a Means to Manage Intercultural Interactions in Social Work
Abstract: In the last century Swedish society has become increasingly globalized and multicultural. Today about 20 per cent of the country’s population of 9 million people is of foreign decent. Recently questions of immigration, integration policies and multiculturalism have received much political attention. This fact, in the unmerciful light of a deconstruction of the welfare state coming to terms with these issues, constitutes an enormous challenge... [...] Read more
The Complexity of Intercultural Communication in Cross-cultural Management
Abstract: In this article an analytical frame model is presented, by means of which one can describe and understand the contents of important elements in an intercultural situation. The model accepts as fact that all individuals are affected by more than one culture at a time, even if by varying amounts, and introduces - for the purpose of being able to cope with this - the concepts of 'Cultural Categories' and 'Cultural Hierarchies'. In order to be... [...] Read more
The Practice of Intercultural Communication - reflections for professionals in cultural meetings
Abstract: In this article I will argue that the globalisation process has carried two major implications for intercultural communication research: 1) It has provided a new target group; professional practitioners in multiethnic societies. 2) It has made 'cultural identity' one of the most important concepts in intercultural research. The challenge for intercultural research today is to provide analytical tools for the practitioners - tools which are... [...] Read more
Is There an Essential Difference between Intercultural and Intracultural Communication?
Abstract: In this paper, I put into question the idea that there is an essential difference between intercultural communication and intracultural communication. After considering dominating assumptions and ideas leading to this dichotomy, I argue that communication should be explored in terms of particular instances of human action and reaction that are embedded in concrete life situation, and that culture should not be taken as a seamless whole which... [...] Read more
The Interpreter as Cultural Mediator
Abstract: This paper introduces the general scope and background of a doctoral research project on cultural mediation in business encounters mediated by an interpreter, and aims to show how the interpreter’s intercultural sensitiveness and competence can lead to better understanding between the two parties. The growing number of intercultural encounters that has followed globalisation and major immigration flows has led to rising interest in... [...] Read more
Metaphor and cognition: a cross-cultural study of indigenous and universal constructs in stock exchange reports
Abstract: The article examines the aspects of similarity and diversity between different cultures through a cognitive metaphorological approach. The aim is to show in which way both aspects are intertwined and in which way they are relevant for both a theoretical foundation of intercultural communication in general and for solving problems of understanding that can arise in special fields of intercultural communication. The article attempts to... [...] Read more
What is the Basis of American Culture?
What is it that intercultural communication students cannot afford to miss about the American Culture?
Abstract: Culture is about survival of the human species. Central values and human capital formation drive cultures. This paper discusses intercultural communication theory from a historical-developmental perspective across the history of humankind, thus defining the uniqueness of the human cultural experience, namely, speech communication. Linking this unique empirical-based human cultural experience to specific cultures and their core values is the... [...] Read more
Business Ethics and Intercultural Communication. Exploring the overlap between two academic fields
Abstract: The paper offers a brief presentation of business ethics as an academic field, and of how it has approached the moral dimension of cross-cultural business activity, i.e. when companies operate in different countries, where stakeholders live in different societies and where norms and values reflect and are affected by cultural differences. Introductory definitions are illustrated by classic case examples and important issues addressed in this... [...] Read more
Open, Closed, and Locked Images: Cultural Stereotypes and the Symbolic Creation of Reality
Abstract: n this paper, I address the complex question of cultural stereotypes and how these kinds of categorising and simplifying notions of the perceived "other" and of ‘difference’ affect the special context of international project industry, a context where cultural diversity is one of the most prominent features. This paper aims at discussing the notion of cultural stereotypes as it appears in an empirical material consisting of field... [...] Read more
Culture To Culturing. Re-imagining Our Understanding Of Intercultural Relations
Abstract: In this paper I explore the notion that human beings are culturing beings. I contend that the world’s infinite ambiguity is constantly pushing us to construct new and different ways of being and understanding the world. I also argue that verbing our understanding of culture enlarges our understanding of what being human means and, moreover, expands moral action by locating our humanity within a world with an inherent moral... [...] Read more
Revisiting Relevant Approaches for the Study of Language and Intercultural Communication
Abstract: This paper revisits relevant approaches used for the study of language and intercultural communication, in particular, in the area of comparing English and Chinese discourse structures. Kaplan's (1966) work has a great impact on the various approaches in this area such as Kirkpatrick (1991; 1993) and Zhu (1997). This paper specifically investigates the approaches focusing on Kaplan's proposal on the circularity and linearity of rhetorical... [...] Read more
Japan as Other: Orientalism and Cultural Conflict
Abstract: This paper tries to show how cross-cultural conflict often occurs between Japan and Westerners as the result of imposing one's own cultural meanings onto another culture. Interpretations of Japan, as well as other Asian cultures, often carries an implicit assumption that the West is rational (and superior) whereas the East is bound by ancient traditions (and is inferior). "Orientalism" has been identified as the particular form that Western... [...] Read more
Creating a Culture of Peace. The Performing Arts in Interethnic Negotiations
Abstract: The Norwegian national institute for music dissemination (Rikskonsertene) initiated a three year school research project "Resonant Community" (1989 - 92). The project aimed at creating an understanding for the cultural traditions of immigrant communities in the Norwegian capital, and preventing discriminatory attitudes through an art program related to cultural traditions of the various immigrant groups.The project further aimed at releasing... [...] Read more
Characteristics of Australian Political Language Rhetoric: Tactics of gaining public support and shirking responsibility
Abstract: The article explores how language can been used as a resource of cultural value and creative power in Australian English. The paper reveals how Australian politicians use political language rhetoric as a powerful tool in gaining political advantages. Several segments of so-called "public discourse" have been analysed, but the author mainly focuses on two areas of speech: how politicians use their language skills in gaining public support, and... [...] Read more
Intercultural Communication in Virtual Environment
Abstract: In this paper we explore and describe aspects of intercultural communication in an Internet based virtual environment. In spite of a massive Anglo-American dominance, the Internet share of non-English language use and of participants from non-English speaking countries is steadily increasing (cf Flydal). Our study is based on observing spontaneous text-based communication in a potentially multilingual and multicultural setting, the Active... [...] Read more
Influences of Native Culture and Language on Intercultural Communication: the Case of PRC Student Immigrants in Australia
Abstract: The paper is a discussion of verbal and non-verbal communication issues encoutered by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) students as immigrants in Australia. It is based on a large survey study as well as interview studies of PRC students who were granted residence status by the Australian government after the 1989 Tiananmen events. When immigrants initially live in a society which is culturally different, their own culture is still with... [...] Read more
Implications of Universal and Parochial Behavior for Intercultural Communication
Abstract: Human behavior is striking for it is the same and yet different. Many common behaviors are displayed by humans around the world whatever their race or ethnic heritage. And yet there are also unique parochial behaviors among various peoples. That is behaviors that are bound to a particular culture or ethnic group in their locale or milieu. Of course the interaction of different cultures may lead to common cultural phenomena and behaviour... [...] Read more
Managing cultural diversity within higher education: a South African perspective
Abstract: The first democratic elections in the history of South Africa have taken place, the Government of National Unity has been installed, and as the country at last starts moving towards establishing a non-racial society based on a constitution that embodies equal rights for every person, the need to establish an equitable and effective higher education system becomes a top priority. Redressing historical imbalances relating to staff... [...] Read more
Visual Communication across Cultures
A study of visual semiotics in Japanese and British advertiments
Abstract: In this paper, I question the notion that "The Visual" is a culturally transparent means of communication (Neurath, 1937, 1948). I will be demonstrating how different cultures (Japanese and British) use the resources of visual communication, in ways that are related to their specific underlying value systems. In order to show this I draw on advertisements from both countries and use the visual grammar developed by Kress and van Leeuwen (1990,... [...] Read more
Business Writing in Mainland China: A Look at the Development of Sales Genres
Abstract: This paper sets out to examine the development of Chinese sales genres in relation to the changing social context. An approach embracing both social context and communicative purposes (Swales, 1990) is proposed and used in this paper. Fundamental changes have taken place in Chinese business context since the economic opening-up in 1978. In response to these changes, sales letters have emerged to meet the communicative needs of business. An... [...] Read more
National language planning, why (not)?
Abstract: This paper will focus on national political views on the appropriateness of language planning in relation to respectively the status, the corpus and the acquisition of various languages. In the light of concrete `language policy events' and the debates - parliamentary, in the media and in academic discourse - in relation to these, the aim of the paper is to discuss which domains within language matters are considered objects of national... [...] Read more
From fever to flu: the rhetoric of reporting Asia in a Swedish business magazine
Abstract: Stereotypes are generally considered to be the opposite of good information, which of course should be accurate and have some degree of complexity. At their worst stereotypes spread prejudice, at the best they may contain a 'kernel of truth'. However, as globalization moves on the demand for simplified understanding of complex, large-scale phenomena grows. In our article an analysis of some aspects of east-west image making is offered showing... [...] Read more
The development of communicative abilities within small group contexts: a cross cultural perspective
Abstract: As higher education institutions throughout Europe continually search for innovative approaches to teaching and learning, not least as they seek to maximise increasingly scarce resources, students are likely to be encouraged, even obliged, to take more responsibility for their own learning. This will be manifested through such activities as the negotiation of learning experiences with their tutors, completion of projects through collaborative... [...] Read more
Finns in interaction with non-finns: problematic phenomena perceived as critical incidents
Abstract: This study focuses on Finns' perceptions of problematic phenomena in their communication with non-Finns. The aim of the study is to examine intercultural face-to-face encounters experienced as critical incidents by the respondents. Critical incidents are communicative events which have been experienced as embarrassing, irritating, funny, strange etc. and which are therefore remembered vividly. People are often not aware of "the obvious"... [...] Read more
Language Use and Intercultural Communication in Latvia
Abstract: The aim of this paper is to illustrate how intercultural communication is affected by language use in Latvia and to show that in accordance with theories of D.L.Horowitz and P.R.Brass (Horowitz, 1985; Brass, 1991) the question of language is a question of conflict in Latvia. The empirical base for this report is the survey "Towards a civic society" conducted by the Baltic Data House. In the second analysis of empirical data, author is trying... [...] Read more
Intercultural Communication, the Print Medium and the Ideal of Two-way Symmetry in Interaction
Abstract: The Norwegian authorities emphasises to-way symmetric communication as an overall ideal to create a good relationship and communication with the public. Based on the report «Communication in Intercultural Encounters: The shaping of school-home co-operation» (Roald 1998) the paper focuses on the Norwegian authorities' common use of print information to the public as a basic tool to achieve these goals. The paper investigates how print... [...] Read more
The Medium is the Barrier
Abstract: In this paper, we present a critical viewpoint of human dialogue in the modern age. In our view, the Internet, as the paramount cultural guidepost at the end of the millennium, is a stark reflection of the barrier in human communication in our time. By means of an analysis of conversation transcripts at virtual conversation sites, we shall endeavor to show that virtual communication, to use a phrase from Zen wisdom literature, is ‘the clap of... [...] Read more
Numbers and geometrical forms as an intercultural 'language'
Abstract: As a generalization it can be said that numbers are used in two different modes: 1) for calculating, 2) symbolically. In studying different branches of sciences one comes to the conclusion that numbers as symbols, in most cases, are connected to the same values. Interestingly the same values show up in the myths of all cultures. A similar connection can be made with geometrical forms. In archaeology one finds a strong correlation between a... [...] Read more
Crosscultural Perspectives on Interaction with Minority and Majority Children at Home and in Pre-school
Abstract: In this paper, we will discuss crosscultural perspectives on Turkish and Swedish children’s interaction with parents at home and pre-school teachers in the Swedish mainstream pre-school. Through their participation in various activities at home and in the pre-school, the Turkish and the Swedish children in this study are socialized into somewhat different norms for interaction, which reflect the somewhat different norms for social order,... [...] Read more
The sociolinguistic aspects of the business presentation and its importance for the teaching
Abstract: The increasing internationalisation of business, industry, science and academia has led to greater importance being given to the ability to present ideas and concepts to an international audience, using English as the language medium. This applies to large conference gatherings but also to business presentations . Through my somewhat unusual background as a manager from industry who later became a teacher of English as a foreign language,... [...] Read more
Professional Communication in Asia/Pacific Organisations: A Comparative Study
Abstract: This paper addresses the role of professional communication in manufacturing organisations in Australia, Thailand and Korea. Professional communication is seen as intentional communication that has the objective of achieving strategic goals within organisational or professional contexts. Within this view, practitioners need to consider communication as a core organisational process, be able to link communication with organisational outcomes... [...] Read more
Reaction Profiles by Americans, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese on ‘Skeletons in the Family Closet’ Topics
Abstract: Americans, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese ( N =250) rated 57 random proposed conversation topics on a five-point scale (i.e., very good, good, neutral, bad, very bad) to a same-culture, same-sex school friend. Five factors emerge and are characterized as: Familial Biographical Data , Skeletons in the Family Closet , Small Talk Topics , Personal Information Topics , and Intimate Relations Topics . For the... [...] Read more
Avatars R Us? Discourses of Community and Embodiment in Intercultural Cyberspace
Abstract: This paper examines the recent emergence of visions of globalised virtual communities who inhabit graphical versions of cyberspace implemented on the Internet. Often it is claimed that geography, nationality, 'race' and gender (are) no longer matter in these novel domains. In regard to the contemporary debates over the nature of intercultural communication, the paper considers how human communication is envisaged in these so-called... [...] Read more
Paralinguism in the Theatre and the International Theatre Festivals
with the special review on the Macedonian theatre paralinguism
Abstract: The paralingual structure of the theatrical concepts,particulary those of the postmodernist trends,successfully break the linguistic barriers in the communication of the theatrical play - spectator - recipient in the art of thetre.I would say that the international theatre festivals who are treated assuch in their programs,in their own way,manage to maintain complete communication between the artistic forms on several culture structures... [...] Read more
"Oi! Skins": Trans-Atlantic Gay Skinhead Discourse on the Internet
Abstract: For about a year and a half now I have been studying non-racist and anti-racist skinheads and their look-alike neo-nazi "bonehead" cousins, using skin websites, e-mail lists and newsgroups as my primary source of data. As I have had no face-to-face contact with my informants, my approach might be called discourse-centered ethnography. At a Cultural Studies conference in June 1998 I reported on an ether community of US and Canadian gay skins... [...] Read more
The Notion of Misunderstanding in Intercultural Communication
Abstract: Misunderstanding (MU) is a central working category in Intercultural Communicaton (ICC) studies. Generally speaking, MUs have gained the role of a raison-d'être for studying ICC, in particular under the premise that the communication in question is between cultural others, thus transforming MU into intercultural MU. In other studies, conflicts, uncomfortable moments, and miscontextualization in terms of sociocultural knowledge become... [...] Read more
Communication in product development in an alliance setting
Abstract: This paper deals with communication across functional and cultural borders in product development in an alliance context. It shows how the multiple levels of co-ordination in an alliance increase complexity. Product development takes place in meetings in a nexus of meetings. Communication is studied by the use of video. Sequences from such recordings are played back to participants who assist in the interpretation of communicative situations.... [...] Read more
Intercultural Communication Through Hypermedia
Abstract: The objective of interculturally-oriented language teaching is intercultural competence. The theory of perspective transformation (Taylor 1994) provides a model for the learning of intercultural communication. When practicing, the cognitive, affective, and behavioral components of competence as well as students' stage of intercultural sensitivity must be paid attention to. The Culture General Assimilator (Brislin et al. 1986; 1996) is a... [...] Read more