1. Studying Abroad/Learning Abroad.
- Author
-
Hess, J. Daniel and Hess, J. Daniel
- Abstract
This guide is designed for students and other individuals intending to live or study abroad and learn about another culture or cultures. These individuals are encouraged to acknowledge and come to terms with responses, particularly negative ones, to aspects of the culture they are visiting. An introductory chapter discusses the general process of learning about and adapting to a new culture and communicating across cultural lines. Four subsequent chapters address in greater detail these aspects of culture learning: attitudes and character traits that promote culture learning; methods in culture learning (the action-reflection-response strategy and reflection as cultural analysis); and the relationships between culture learning, values, and ethical choices. Each provides specific suggestions for addressing issues. The final chapter presents 15 distinct techniques, with exercises, for approaching different aspects of culture: noting differences; interpreting nonverbal cues; interpersonal interactions; identifying petty irritants; defining different "-isms" and noting them in the host culture; learning about the rhythm of life in another culture; dealing with culture shock; identifying American value orientations; studying influence on values; personal essays; studying institutions; studying a religious institution; comparing cultural values; studying individuals; and re-entry experiences. (Contains 80 references.) (MSE)
- Published
- 1997