Reflection on Intercultural Communication
Intercultural communication plays a crucial role in today’s globalized world, as it enables people
from diverse cultural backgrounds to interact, collaborate, and coexist harmoniously.
Throughout this course, I have gained valuable insights into the complexities of intercultural
communication, including cultural dimensions, communication barriers, and strategies for
improving cross-cultural interactions. This reflection will explore my learning experience, the
challenges I encountered, and how this knowledge will benefit me in the future.
One of the most significant takeaways from this course is the understanding of cultural
dimensions, as proposed by Geert Hofstede. His model, which includes dimensions such as
individualism vs. collectivism, power distance, and uncertainty avoidance, helped me analyze
how cultural values shape communication styles. For instance, I learned that cultures with high
power distance, like many Asian societies, tend to value hierarchical relationships and respect
for authority, while low power distance cultures, such as Scandinavian countries, promote
equality and open dialogue. This newfound awareness has made me more conscious of my
own cultural biases and the need to adapt my communication style when engaging with people
from different backgrounds.
Additionally, the course emphasized the importance of non-verbal communication in intercultural
interactions. Different cultures interpret gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact in unique
ways. For example, maintaining eye contact is often seen as a sign of confidence and honesty
in Western cultures, whereas in some Asian cultures, prolonged eye contact may be perceived
as disrespectful or confrontational. I realized that I had previously overlooked the significance of
non-verbal cues and how they might lead to misunderstandings in cross-cultural exchanges. By
being more observant and mindful of body language, I can enhance my communication skills
and avoid unintentional offense.
Another key lesson I learned was about the common barriers to intercultural communication,
such as language differences, stereotypes, and ethnocentrism. Language barriers can hinder
effective communication and lead to frustration or misinterpretation. I experienced this firsthand
during a role-play activity in class, where I had to communicate with a peer who spoke limited
English. It was challenging to convey my message clearly, but I found that using simple
language, gestures, and active listening techniques helped bridge the gap. This experience
reinforced the importance of patience and empathy when interacting with non-native speakers.
Stereotypes and ethnocentrism also pose challenges to intercultural communication. Prior to
this course, I was unaware of the extent to which unconscious biases can affect the way we
perceive and interact with others. Through discussions and case studies, I realized that
assuming certain traits about individuals based on their cultural background can lead to
misunderstandings and even discrimination. The course encouraged me to adopt a more open-
minded and culturally sensitive perspective, which will help me foster meaningful connections
with people from diverse backgrounds.
Applying this knowledge to my future career and personal life will be highly beneficial. As
someone aspiring to work in aviation customer service or as a flight attendant, I will frequently
interact with passengers from various cultural backgrounds. Understanding intercultural
communication will enable me to provide better service, resolve conflicts effectively, and create
a welcoming environment for travelers. Moreover, as I continue my journey of learning Korean
and possibly pursuing a master’s degree in South Korea, my awareness of cultural differences
will be instrumental in adapting to new social and academic settings.
In conclusion, this course has significantly enhanced my understanding of intercultural
communication and its impact on personal and professional interactions. By recognizing cultural
dimensions, being mindful of non-verbal communication, overcoming language barriers, and
challenging stereotypes, I can become a more effective communicator in diverse environments.
The insights gained from this course will not only help me navigate cross-cultural interactions
but also foster greater respect and appreciation for cultural diversity in my daily life.
