Cultural Values & Stereotypes: Spain & the U.S.

This course delves beyond the simple comparative and practical approach to understanding stereotypes. It is designed to enhance overall intercultural competence and interpersonal/cultural communication between people of diverse cultures, with an emphasis on cultural identity, patterns, attitudes, values and nonverbal behaviors.

After being introduced to some of the theoretical frameworks used to examine culture (ie. Hofstede, Kohls, etc.), you will use ethnographic techniques to gain a clear understanding of the various elements present in any culture and use this information to contextualize your interaction with the host environment and explain the cause of certain behavioral traits that lead to stereotypes, misunderstandings and confrontations. Another equally challenging component of this class is to interpret and explain the opinions regarding the U.S. culture held by the local host environment. The course will enlighten students as to the importance of needing to fully understand the values of the host environment in order to achieve and display a degree of mutual respect and making sense of the cues as to appropriate behavior. Through readings, discussions, ethnographic observations and personal interactions participants will explore these contexts.