Transcultural Communication at Work

One outcome of the globalisation of the Australian and international job markets is the increasing need for transcultural communication skills in both the private and public sectors. Transcultural communication typically entails interaction in which one or more of the communicators use a second or third language. Successful transcultural communication requires not only a shared language but also strong intercultural awareness and skills. These include verbal skills such as how and when to use speech and silence as well as non-verbal skills knowing how and when gaze, gesture and body posture may differ across cultures. This subject will provide students with the tools to achieve successful transcultural encounters in professional settings and embrace intercultural citizenship. The delivery of the subject will include lectures with audio-visual materials, discussion sessions to deepen the students’ understanding of theories and key concepts pertaining to transcultural communication. Students will also be evaluating the practical implications of theories and concepts discussed in the classroom and applying them to real-world scenarios. This subject will focus on transcultural communication using an intersectional approach by exploring topics such as, multicultural and Indigenous Australia, identity, intercultural citizenship, politeness and rapport management.