The ability to successfully communicate in an international context requires both the knowledge of differing social norms as well as the ability to self-reflect in order to anticipate, mediate, and rectify cultural misunderstandings. Both theoretical and practical, this five-day course provides insight and strategies for overcoming various intercultural communication issues as well as incorporates key interpersonal skills such as relationship building and conflict management.

The course will begin with a brief background of various models of intercultural communication and students will test out the models themselves all the while sharing and discussing their intercultural experiences. Students will be given the opportunity to reflect on their own communication styles as well as use strategies for conflict management during highly interactive debates and role-plays. On the last day, students will work in teams to design intercultural sketches that they can share with the entire group. By the end of the course, students will be able to observe, analyze, and grow in multiple international contexts.