"Don’t tell me how educated you are, tell me how much you have travelled."
– Mohammed1
Culture is the widening of the mind and of the spirit.
– Jawaharlal Nehru2
Even though some of the above mentioned personalties caused inter-cultural
disputes, it must be admitted, that the quotes do hit the bull's eye.
Travelling and the with this connected insight in different cultural spheres do have a
immense impact on behaviour, experience and acting3 and these as basic pillars of
psychology shapes, whether you like or not your way of communication.
This paper will look on time related values such as Poly- and Monochronicity
as well as the time sense in different cultures in general.
The topic will be described and elucidated with the help of personal experiences
which I gathered during my studies abroad so far.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Perception of Time
3. Definition
4. Attempt of Categorisation
5. Introduction
6. Culture is Communication
7. Conclusion
Objectives and Topics
The academic papers examine the dynamics of intercultural communication and the psychological aspects of navigating different cultural spheres, specifically focusing on the influence of time perception and the challenges of adapting to foreign environments during study abroad programs.
- Analysis of Monochronic versus Polychronic time perception across different cultures.
- Examination of personal cross-cultural experiences in Germany, Italy, and Japan.
- Identification of common communication barriers such as stereotypes and non-verbal misinterpretations.
- Strategies for developing intercultural competence and reducing culture shock.
- The critical role of verbal and non-verbal communication in integrating into new cultural settings.
Excerpt from the Book
DEFINITION
Just Imagine what would happen if we would go to university classes according to the position of the sun. "Impossible!" will some cultures say, "performable!" others.
Alongside with the sense of time, Monochronic or Polychronic backgrounds are the part, hidden under water of the "cultural iceberg".
However, let us define these two terms first. The book "Intercultural communication: a reader" suggests that, Polychronic individuals do "many things simultaneously, are more concerned with people and the present moment than with schedules, and believe that they are command of time rather then controlled by it."
Opposed to this "cultures that operate near the M-time end of time scale, such as those found in North America and northern Europe, reflects traits that are Monochronic. these cultures organize their lives around time by relying heavily on time keeping instruments like clocks, calenders, computers, and cell-phone reminders. the emphasize schedules the segmentation of time, and promptness."
Summary of Chapters
Introduction: Outlines the author's academic context and the initial observations regarding the contrast between South-Central European and East Asian cultural spheres.
Perception of Time: Explores the universal standard of time measurement and how cultural attitudes towards time shape the framework of social and professional processes.
Definition: Clarifies the concepts of Monochronic and Polychronic time, detailing how different cultures prioritize schedules versus human interaction.
Attempt of Categorisation: Applies theoretical time-perception models to personal experiences in Germany, Italy, and Japan to illustrate cultural differences in daily life.
Introduction: Addresses the broader implications of globalization and the necessity for intercultural competence in contemporary society.
Culture is Communication: Argues that effective communication is the foundational skill required to overcome cultural barriers and reduce misunderstandings.
Conclusion: Provides practical advice for students to facilitate their cultural integration through observation, open-mindedness, and active social engagement.
Keywords
Intercultural Communication, Psychology, Monochronic, Polychronic, Time Perception, Culture Shock, Globalization, Stereotypes, Non-verbal Communication, Study Abroad, Cultural Competence, Social Interaction, Cultural Sensitivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this academic paper?
The paper focuses on the psychological and communicative challenges faced by exchange students when transitioning between different cultural environments, with a special emphasis on time perception.
What are the main thematic areas covered?
The main themes include the definition of Monochronic and Polychronic time, the impact of culture on behavioral expectations, and strategies to overcome communication barriers.
What is the ultimate goal of the author's research?
The goal is to elucidate how understanding cultural differences, particularly in time management and communication styles, can lead to a more successful and less stressful experience for students abroad.
Which scientific methods are utilized?
The paper utilizes a reflective approach, combining existing literature on intercultural communication with personal qualitative experiences and observations gathered during the author's studies.
What is covered in the main body of the work?
The main body examines the conceptual differences between time-oriented cultures, provides practical examples from Europe and Japan, and discusses common psychological barriers like preconceptions and stereotypes.
Which keywords best characterize this work?
Key terms include Intercultural Communication, Monochronic, Polychronic, Time Perception, and Cultural Competence.
How does the author characterize the difference between German and Italian time perceptions?
The author describes Germany as linear and schedule-oriented (Monochronic), whereas Italy is characterized as more fluid and people-oriented (Polychronic).
What advice does the author give to students regarding "unknown" situations?
The author advises students to remain open-minded, accept that making mistakes is a normal part of the learning process, and to prioritize observation and interaction with native students.
- Quote paper
- Robert Högerle (Author), 2011, Going abroad! A brief guide for exchange-students with a focus on communication, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/271959
