Module 3

This module focuses on communicating across cultures. It’s important to understand that there is diversity in the global marketplace. We can categorize cultures in a high context or low context. High context cultures mean that little is spelled out. In low context cultures the context is less important and most information is explicitly spelled out. Values, beliefs, and practices are often unconscious and affect our response to people and situations. Non verbal communication doesn’t use words and takes place all the times. Body language, personal space, and time are all ways to non verbally communicate with someone. Other non verbal symbols include clothing, colors, age, and height. What I thought was interesting in this module was the section about writing to international audiences. Most cultures are more formal than the United States and when you write to international audiences it’s important to remember to use titles, not first names. Avoid contractions, slang, and sports metaphors. Also, be flexible and open to change when writing to other cultures. Making your documents bias free so that it does not discriminate against others is also a section that I thought was important in this module. Bias free language is friendly and fair. Nonsexist language is also important and treats both sexes neutrally. It’s also important to be nonracist and nonagist, which means treating all races and ages equally.