Intercultural Sensitivity

What is the impact of diversity at the workplace, and in classrooms? Research shows that performance in culturally diverse groups is outstanding. They out-perform culturally homogeneous groups. They have broader perspectives, more ideas, more and better solutions to problems, and greater creativity. However, productivity in diverse groups can be low when differences are regarded as a problem and are suppressed. When those who are different are excluded. Culturally diverse groups excel when all members feel included, have a sense of belonging; and when their diversity is recognized as a valuable source of innovation and growth. In society. In companies. And in education.

Intercultural Sensitivity presents the cultural models by Hoffman, Hall, Kluckhohn, Hofstede, Trompenaars, Bennett, House, Banaji and Greenwald as practical competencies to achieve inclusion. It stimulates an interest in learning about cultures beyond your own, and readers also become aware of the uniqueness of their own culture, which they may take for granted. They learn to recognize culture as a valuable resource. This book gives students a head-start in working with lecturers and fellow students of other cultures, and helps them to excel in their (future) international careers.

Compact, and easy to study in a 7-week or 8-week term, this book is packed with assignments and cases from real-life intercultural situations – any place where you need to communicate across cultures. In the classroom, during an internship, or in the professional field, Intercultural Sensitivity will help students and professionals achieve intercultural competence.

About the authors
With culturally and professionally diverse backgrounds, Raya Nunez Mahdi and Carlos Nunez are trainers and lecturers in intercultural communication at universities and universities of applied sciences, both in the Netherlands and abroad. They also work as independent intercultural trainers, coaches and consultants.