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Lecturer(s)
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Foretová Petra, Mgr. Ph.D.
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Course content
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1) Introductory session: Introduction to the course syllabus. Course completion requirements. 2) Introduction to study intercultural communication, the definition of basic concepts (cross-culture communication, intercultural communication and international communication); 3) History of exploration of intercultural communication, interdisciplinarity; 4) "Cultural variability" and its dimensions; ethnocentrism or cultural relativism, individualism or collectivism; 5) Language and verbal communication 1: effect of language on culture, the issue of language universals; 6) Language and verbal communication 2: linguistic competence (Chomsky) or communicative competence (Hymes) vs. intercultural competence; 7) Nonverbal communication across cultures, cross-cultural non-verbal communication; 8) Nonverbal Communication 2: Analysis of non-verbal expressions in selected cultures (perception and expression of emotions; haptika, posturika etc.); 9) Influence of culture on perceptions of the world, culturally determined values, cultural relativism (Sapir Whorf hypothesis); 10) Attitudes and cultural stereotypes, the nature of cultural stereotypes and their impact on communication and interaction, preventing prejudice and stereotypes; 11) Intercultural sensitivity and adaptability, cultural shock and dealing with it, the process of adopting other cultures; 12) Cognitive competence and affection across cultures; entocentrismus, stereotypes, social and cultural identity; 13) Types of coexistence of cultures in a multicultural environment, communication in a multicultural environment.
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Learning activities and teaching methods
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Dialogic Lecture (Discussion, Dialog, Brainstorming), Activating (Simulations, Games, Dramatization), Group work
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Learning outcomes
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This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the theoretical foundations, key concepts, and practical dynamics of intercultural communication. It traces the interdisciplinary evolution of the field while examining core dimensions of cultural variability, including individualism versus collectivism, ethnocentrism, and cultural relativism. Students analyze the interplay between language, culture, and world perceptionexploring linguistic and intercultural competencies alongside the Sapir-Whorf hypothesisas well as cross-cultural nonverbal communication patterns. Additionally, the course addresses key socio-psychological mechanisms of interaction, such as cultural stereotypes, prejudice, identity formation, culture shock, and strategies for intercultural adaptation. Ultimately, the course equips students with the analytical tools needed to navigate, evaluate, and communicate effectively within multicultural environments and diverse social contexts.
Analyze and interpret verbal and nonverbal communication patterns across different cultural contexts. Apply theoretical frameworks to evaluate real-world intercultural interaction situations and identify potential sources of misunderstanding or communication breakdown. Detect and address cultural stereotypes and prejudice in social or professional interactions and propose effective strategies to mitigate them. Employ effective strategies for navigating multicultural environments, managing culture shock, and facilitating constructive dialogue across culture
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Prerequisites
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Knowledge of fundamental concepts in social communication
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Assessment methods and criteria
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Final Report
**CREDIT REQUIREMENTS:** 1. Regular active participation in the seminar (a maximum of 2 unexcused absences allowed; additional absences must be officially documented). 2. Preparation for seminars, i.e., knowledge of assigned readings and the ability to discuss them in class. 3. Willingness to participate in practical activities related to the topics covered (applying theoretical knowledge in practice). 4. Completion of continuous assignments in Moodle during the semester (max. 3 assignments per semester). **COLLOQUIUM REQUIREMENTS:** 1. Oral presentation on a pre-selected topic (or micro-project). 2. Preparation of written summary points/theses for the oral presentation for other course participants.
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Recommended literature
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Kiesling, F. S. - Paulston, Ch. B. (Eds.). (2005). Intercultural Discourse and Communication: The Essential Readings.
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Liu, S. - Hua, Z. - Komisarof, A. - Obijiofor, L. (2025). The Sage Handbook of Intercultural Communication.
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Martin, J. N. - Nakayama, T. N. (2025). Intercultural Communication in Contexts.
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Spencer-Oatey, H. (Eds.). Culturally Speaking. 2nd edition..
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Ting-Toomey, S. - Dorjee, T. (2018). Communicating Across Cultures, Second Edition.
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