Learning outcomes

• Upon completion of this module, you will be able to recognize intercultural concepts and terminology that are foundational to intercultural development in international education.

Read and watch

• The word culture has a rich history of meaning and as such, it can mean different things to different people. As a basic level of understanding, culture can be defined as the characteristics of social groups to which we belong that influence our thinking and behaviour. Socialization refers to the process of how we come to understand a culture’s norms, values, and beliefs.
• The iceberg is a common metaphor for the ways in which culture impacts us. Notice how the majority of the ways in which we are influenced lie below the surface.
• This booklet provides some working definitions as a starting point for conversations and contemplations in your work in international education. These key terms and concepts are the foundations that the upcoming modules build upon.
• Consider the following practices outlined in this infographic.

Reflection

• How does international education make you aware of your own deep culture (below the surface of your cultural iceberg)?
• What are your three top values as an international educator? Where do you think they come from? See Brené Brown’s list of values.
• What is your internal response when someone does not value what you say, do, or think? How is this different or similar to when someone identifies with what you say, do or think?