This course aims at introducing the concept of intercultural competence and exploring its practical implications in cross-cultural collaboration. The course starts with a brief introduction to the concepts of culture and the predominant models that describe cultural patterns and differences. The notions of intercultural competence, transculturality and their applicability in global projects and intercultural teams are explored, with an emphasis on patterns that might emerge in Chinese-European relations. Students will explore the practical application of the theoretical background in the form of exercises, case studies, scenarios, group work and debates in order to sharpen their awareness of their own cultural patterns and practice recognizing intercultural challenges and developing constructive ways to overcome them. In the course the multicultural composition of the student body will be used, if possible, as a “live” example to analyze challenges, share best practices, work on case studies and develop intercultural competence together. Students will familiarize themseves with the concepts of inter-and transculturality, will be sensitized about their own cultural imprinting and become aware of approaches to manage cultural differences in real life situations, particularly in the context of Chinese-European relations and intercultural teamwork and collaboration.    

Examination and grading is based on the following parameters:

- Mandatory attendance at all classes (a successful completion requires at least 80%)

- Active participation during class, excursions, guest lectures, and field trips

- Presentation of a case study

Students from other departments, faculties, or universities will be given a place on the course subject to room capacities.

The course is planned optimisticly and eagerly to take place in presence. However, the COVID-19 regulations might make a distance learning inevitable. In that case, structure and methods of teaching will be adapted accordingly.