This course introduces the concept of transculturality, explores its implications in international collaboraton and aims at strengthening the students' intercultural competence. Students will be invited to reflect on their own cultural imprintng, learn about notions of cultural differences and discuss if and how those can have an impact in the reality of transcultural projects and diverse teams. The course presents an introduction to concepts of inter-and transculturality, euro- and ethnocentrism and diversity management. Students will explore the practical application of the theoretical background through exercises, case studies, scenarios, group work and debates in order to sharpen their awareness of their own cultural patterns and develop constructive ways to navigate transcultural settings.

Examination and grading are based on the following parameters:

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

- Active participation during class

- Written presentation of a case study of own intercultural experience

Optional Reading: 

• Milton J. Bennett: Basic Concepts of Intercultural Communication. Paradigms, Principles and Practices. Intercultural Press, Boston – London, 2013
• Edward T. Hall: The Silent Language. Anchor Books, New York, 1973
• Erin Meyer: The Culture Map: Decoding how People Think, Lead, and Get Things Done Across Cultures. Hachette Book Group, USA, 2016
• Edward W. Said: Orientalism. Penguin Books, London, 2019
• Linda Tuhiwai Smith: Decolonizing Methodologies. University of Otago Press, New Zealand, 1999