Module 2: Purposive Communication PDF

1. Globalization and Communication 1.1. Introduction to Globalization 1.2. Impacts of Globalization on Communication 1.3. Effective Global Communicators 2. Intercultural Communication 2.1. Intercultural vs. Intracultural Communication 2.2. Forms of Intercu...

1. Globalization and Communication 1.1. Introduction to Globalization 1.2. Impacts of Globalization on Communication 1.3. Effective Global Communicators 2. Intercultural Communication 2.1. Intercultural vs. Intracultural Communication 2.2. Forms of Intercultural Communication 2.3. Barriers to Intercultural Communication 2.4. Intercultural Communication Competence 3. Culturally Responsive, Engaging, and Appropriate Language 3.1. Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity Guidelines 3.2. Gender-Sensitive Language 3.3. Political Correctness This module talks about intercultural communication and globalization. It defines globalization and its types, the strategies to become an effective communicator, ethics across cultures, communication approach to intercultural communication, barriers to intercultural communication, and characteristics of intercultural communication. Communication has since been increasingly global, blurring national boundaries. The ability to communicate effectively in a global context and a general understanding of the differences in conducting communication from 1  one country to another or from one culture to another helps avoid miscommunication. People’s beliefs and experiences influence their view of the world and the values, beliefs, and behavior patterns assumed to be good. At the end of the module, you will be able to: 1. Explain how cultural and global issues affect communication. 2. Appreciate the impact of communication on society and the world. 3. Determine culturally appropriate terms, expressions, and images. 4. Adopt cultural and intercultural awareness and sensitivity in the communication of ideas. I. Globalization and Communication Introduction to Globalization Globalization is a process of interaction and integration among people, companies, and governments of different nations, a process driven by international trade and investment and aided by information technology. This process has effects on the environment, culture, political systems, economic development and prosperity, and human physical well-being in societies around the world. In simple terms, globalization means the speedup of movements and exchanges (of human beings, goods and services, capital, technologies, or cultural practices) all over the planet. One of the effects of globalization is that it promotes and increases interactions between different regions and populations around the globe. 2  Due to globalization, the more you become exposed to diversity--- the valuing of the uniqueness of differences in gender preference, color, age, religion, affiliation, ethnicity, education, social, economic status, and political beliefs. TYPES OF GLOBALIZATION Financial globalization refers to integrating financial markets and systems across national borders, facilitating the movement of capital, investments, and financial services on a global scale. One example of financial globalization is the emergence of multinational corporations (MNCs) and FINANCIAL global financial institutions. MNCs operate in multiple countries and engage in cross-border trade, investment, and production activities. Examples of MNCs include companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Toyota, which have a presence in numerous countries and generate revenue from global markets. This type of globalization involves the integration of national economies through trade, investment, and capital flows. Examples include multinational corporations outsourcing manufacturing to countries ECONOMIC with lower labor costs, international trade agreements like NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement), and establishing global financial institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Technological globalization involves the dissemination of technology and information across the globe, TECHNOLOGICAL leading to increased connectivity and interdependence. This includes both: 3  The spread of technological knowledge (how to create technology) The literal movement of technology around the world (trade-in technological goods. Examples of technological globalization are the internet, which allows instant communication and access to information worldwide, social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter connecting geographical boundaries, and the proliferation of smartphones enabling individuals to access information and services from anywhere. Political globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness of political systems and the emergence of global governance mechanisms. Examples include international organizations like the United Nations (UN) and the European Union (EU) POLITICAL promoting cooperation and addressing global challenges, multinational treaties and agreements on issues such as climate change and human rights, and the rise of supranational entities with authority over nation-states. Cultural globalization refers to the spread of ideas, values, and cultural practices across national borders. Examples include the global popularity of Hollywood CULTURAL movies and American music, the spread of fast-food chains like McDonald's and Starbucks to countries worldwide, and the adoption of Western fashion trends in diverse cultural contexts. Sociological globalization refers to the SOCIOLOGICAL interconnectedness of societies and cultures on a global scale, resulting in the exchange of ideas, 4  values, norms, and cultural practices across national borders. Various factors, including advancements in communication technology, migration, international travel, and the spread of mass media drive this type of globalization. The emergence of global social movements such as #MeToo, Black Lives Matter, and environmental activism are examples of sociological globalization. Ecological globalization refers to the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the impact of human activities on the environment across national ECOLOGICAL borders. Examples include climate change, transboundary pollution, and biodiversity loss such as habitat destruction and deforestation. Geographical globalization refers to the interconnectedness of physical spaces and the movement of people, goods, and information across GEOGRAPHICAL geographical boundaries. An example is the increased migration of people to major cities and first-world countries. IMPACTS OF GLOBALIZATION ON COMMUNICATION Globalization has revolutionized communication by enabling virtual interaction across vast transcending VIRTUAL distances, geographical boundaries, and time zones. INTERACTION Examples include video conferencing, social media platforms, and online gaming. CULTURAL Globalization has heightened the importance of AWARENESS IN cultural awareness in communication, including 5  SPEECH AND sensitivity to cultural differences in speech patterns, BODY LANGUAGE nonverbal cues, and body language. For example, online translation tools like Google Translate and professional translation services enable individuals to overcome language barriers and communicate effectively across linguistic boundaries. In addition, awareness of cultural variations in nonverbal cues such as eye contact, gestures, facial expressions, and personal space helps individuals navigate cross-cultural interactions and avoid misunderstandings. The advent of global collaboration introduces another new dynamic to communication skills - - the need to communicate and share information with people across several time zones. For example, companies offering global customer TIME support operate 24/7 call centers or use chatbots and DIFFERENCES automated systems to assist customers in different time zones, ensuring continuous availability and responsiveness. Another example is teams working across different time zones using tools like scheduling software, shared calendars, and asynchronous communication platforms to coordinate work and meetings effectively. EFFECTIVE GLOBAL COMMUNICATORS REVIEW Effective global communicators review fundamental COMMUNICATION communication principles to ensure clarity, accuracy, PRINCIPLES and relevance. This includes considering audience 6  analysis, message structure, and communication channels. For example, before sending an email to an international team, a global communicator should consider the diverse cultural backgrounds and language proficiency levels of the audience to tailor the message appropriately. Global communicators actively analyze the messages they receive, considering cultural nuances, context, and potential barriers to understanding. They seek clarification and avoid ANALYZE THE making assumptions about the sender's intentions or MESSAGE meanings. For instance, when interpreting feedback RECEIVED from colleagues in different countries, a global communicator may consider cultural differences in communication styles and preferences to understand the intended message accurately. Effective global communicators demonstrate openness and respect towards other cultures, recognizing and appreciating cultural differences without judgment or bias. They approach BE OPEN TO cross-cultural interactions with curiosity, empathy, ACCEPTING and a willingness to learn from diverse perspectives. OTHER CULTURES For example, during international business negotiations, a global communicator may show respect for cultural customs and traditions, such as exchanging business cards with both hands in some Asian cultures. Global communicators proactively seek knowledge LEARN ABOUT about different cultures, customs, and CULTURES AND communication norms, and apply this understanding 7  APPLY WHAT IS in their interactions. They invest time in cross-cultural LEARNED training, cultural immersion experiences, and ongoing learning to enhance their cultural competence. For instance, before relocating to a new country for work, a global communicator may engage in cultural orientation programs to learn about local customs, etiquette, and communication styles to facilitate successful adaptation. Language plays a crucial role in global communication, and effective global communicators consider language needs when crafting messages and engaging with diverse audiences. They use clear, simple language and avoid jargon or idiomatic CONSIDER expressions that may be difficult for non-native LANGUAGE speakers to understand. For example, when NEEDS conducting a virtual meeting with international participants, a global communicator may provide meeting materials in multiple languages or arrange for simultaneous interpretation to accommodate language preferences and promote inclusivity. II. INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION Intercultural Communication vs. Intracultural Communication Intercultural Communication refers to interaction with people from diverse cultures. On the other hand, Intracultural Communication is the interaction between or among members of the same racial or ethnic group or co-culture (Jandt, 1998). 8 Forms of Intercultural Communication Interracial Communication This refers to communication between individuals of different racial backgrounds. This involves navigating cultural differences in race, ethnicity, and social identity. Examples of interracial communication include: A friendship between an Asian American and a Hispanic American student, where they exchange perspectives on their respective cultural traditions and experiences growing up in multicultural societies. A romantic relationship between individuals from different racial backgrounds, where they communicate openly about their cultural values, family dynamics, and experiences of discrimination or prejudice. Interethnic Communication This refers to communication between individuals of different ethnicities within the same racial or national group. This involves navigating cultural differences based on ethnic heritage, language, customs, and traditions. An example of interethnic communication is: A dialogue between members of different immigrant communities living in the same neighborhood, where they share stories about their cultural heritage, celebrate ethnic festivals together, and collaborate on community projects. International Communication This occurs between individuals or groups from different countries or nationalities. It involves navigating linguistic, cultural, and geopolitical differences on a global scale. Examples of international communication include: A video conference call between team members in different countries, where they collaborate on a 9  multinational project, discuss cultural considerations, and coordinate work across different time zones. A cross-cultural exchange program between students from different countries, where they participate in cultural immersion activities, language learning, and collaborative projects to promote mutual understanding and intercultural competence. Barriers to Intercultural Communication 1. Anxiety Defined as a state of the human condition where a person feels unease and nervousness. It is even sometimes associated with the feeling of an unrealistic fear. 2. Assuming similarities instead of differences Sometimes, people assume that two cultures are not different but are similar. This is not always true, as people from different cultures have different preferences. The preference of a person or a group of people does not reflect the entire culture. 3. Ethnocentrism Ethnocentrism refers to the tendency for individuals to evaluate other cultures based on their own culture's standards, values, and norms, often leading to the belief that one's culture is superior to others. This poses significant challenges to intercultural communication by fostering bias, misunderstanding, and cultural insensitivity. 4. Stereotyping To believe unfairly that all people or things with a particular characteristic are the same. Individuals are unique; you can never predict a person’s behavior based on nationality. 5. Prejudice Prejudice is another notable and important barrier to cross-cultural communication. Prejudice refers to irrational judgments 10  passed on to certain groups or individuals. Individuals create a primary negative perception based on race, ethnicity, religion, caste, or language. 6. Motivation Motivation influences our attitudes, behaviors, and outcomes in cross-cultural interactions. Internal motivation fosters empathy and the ability to take others' perspectives. Internally motivated individuals are more likely to empathize with people from different cultural backgrounds, understand their experiences, and appreciate their points of view. Meanwhile, externally motivated individuals may be incentivized by rewards such as praise, recognition, or tangible benefits for successful intercultural communication. 7. Tolerance to ambiguity Refers to an individual’s attitude about and level of comfort in uncertain situations. Intercultural encounters often bring up uncertainty. Whether communicating with someone of a different gender, race, or nationality, we are often wondering what we should or should not do or say. 8. Open-mindedness An open-minded person is willing to receive the ideas and opinions of others dispassionately. Open-minded people know their cultural values and recognize that other people’s values are different. 9. Knowledge and Skill Good intercultural communication skills require a willingness to accept and adapt to differences. Passive Observation - Watching the communication behaviors used by members of a particular culture. Notice how their values, rituals, and communication styles are similar to and different from your own and other cultures with which you are familiar. 11  Active Strategies - Learn and read about other cultures. Immerse yourself in the culture. You can learn much about another culture by actively participating in it. Self-disclosure - refers to how much information individuals reveal about themself to another. The information can be descriptive or evaluative and can include thoughts, feelings, aspirations, goals, failures, successes, fears, and dreams, as well as one's likes, dislikes, and favorites. Intercultural Communication Competence Intercultural communication competence refers to the ability of individuals to effectively and appropriately communicate with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. It involves possessing the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors necessary to navigate and engage in meaningful interactions across cultural boundaries. 1. Personality Strength The main personal traits that affect intercultural communication are self-concept, self-disclosure, self-monitoring, and social relaxation. Self-concept intercultural communication by shaping individuals' perceptions of themselves and others and their communication behaviors. Individuals with a strong cultural identity may feel more confident SELF-CONCEPT communicating with people from similar cultural backgrounds. At the same time, those with a more fluid or flexible self-concept may be more open to adapting their communication style to connect with individuals from diverse cultures. Self-disclosure is sharing personal information, thoughts, and feelings with others. Individuals SELF-DISCLOSURE comfortable with self-disclosure may communicate openly and honestly, fostering deeper connections 12  and mutual understanding with intercultural partners. Self-monitoring refers to individuals' ability to regulate and adapt their communication behavior based on situational and social cues. This allows SELF-MONITORING individuals to adjust their verbal and nonverbal communication to fit the norms and expectations of different cultural contexts. Social Relaxation refers to an individual’s comfort level and ease in social interactions, including the ability to manage communication apprehension and SOCIAL anxiety in diverse cultural contexts. RELAXATION Socially relaxed individuals may exhibit more open and engaging communication behaviors, facilitating smoother interactions and rapport-building with people from different cultural backgrounds. 2. Communication Skills Communication skills are vital in intercultural communication, as they facilitate understanding, build rapport, and navigate cultural differences effectively. This includes verbal and nonverbal communication proficiency, listening skills, empathy and cultural sensitivity, adaptability and flexibility, conflict resolution and negotiation skills, and interpersonal skills. These skills enable individuals to adapt their communication style, language, and behavior to fit the cultural context and preferences of their interlocutors. 3. Psychological Adjustment Psychological adjustment plays a crucial role in intercultural communication by influencing individuals' attitudes, behaviors, and emotional responses in cross-cultural interactions. By fostering cultural 13  openness, flexibility, empathy, resilience, and self-awareness, an individual can better understand and appreciate cultural differences and adjust communication style, behavior, and expectations to fit the cultural context, ensuring smoother interactions and reducing cultural misunderstandings. Psychologically adjusted individuals can navigate intercultural challenges more effectively by maintaining a positive outlook, seeking social support, and practicing self-care. 4. Cultural Awareness Cultural awareness enables individuals to understand, respect, and navigate the cultural differences present in diverse communication contexts. By recognizing and appreciating the diversity of cultural norms, values, beliefs, and practices that exist across different societies. individuals can avoid making assumptions or stereotyping others based on their own cultural perspective, thus reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings or conflicts in intercultural interactions. Additionally, by continuously expanding one’s cultural awareness through learning, observation, and exposure to different cultures, individuals can develop the skills and attitudes needed to navigate intercultural communication with confidence, empathy, and sensitivity. III. CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE, ENGAGING, AND APPROPRIATE LANGUAGE CULTURAL AWARENESS AND SENSITIVITY GUIDELINES Culturally responsive, engaging, and appropriate language in communication involves tailoring language and messaging to resonate with diverse audiences while respecting their cultural backgrounds, capturing their interest, and adhering to social and situational norms. By employing these principles, communicators can foster inclusivity, connection, and understanding in their interactions. 14 CULTURAL AWARENESS AND SENSITIVITY GUIDELINES Cultural awareness involves recognizing, understanding, and appreciating individuals and groups' cultural backgrounds, beliefs, values, and practices. It requires an awareness of one's own cultural biases and an openness to learning about and respecting the diversity of others. On the other hand, cultural sensitivity refers to the ability to communicate effectively and respectfully with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. 1. View human differences as positive and a cause for celebration; 2. Have a clear sense of your own ethnic, cultural, and racial identity; 3. Be aware that in order to learn about others, you need to understand and be prepared to share your own culture; 4. Be aware of your discomfort when you encounter differences in race, color, religion, sexual orientation, language, and ethnicity; 5. Be aware of the assumptions that you hold about people of cultures different from your own; 6. Be aware of your stereotypes as they arise and develop personal strategies for reducing the harm that they cause; 7. Be aware of how your cultural perspective influences your judgments about what appropriate, normal, or superior behaviors, values, and communication styles are; 8. Accept that there can be uncertainty in cross-cultural situations, which can make you anxious. It can also mean you do not respond quickly and take the time to get more information. 9. Take any opportunity to put yourself in places where you can learn about differences and create relationships; 10. Understand that you will likely be perceived as a person with power and racial privilege (or the opposite) and that you may not be seen as unbiased or as an ally. 15 GENDER-SENSITIVE LANGUAGE Gender-sensitive language is inclusive, respectful, and reflective of diverse gender identities. It aims to avoid reinforcing stereotypes, biases, or assumptions based on gender and to promote gender equality and inclusivity. 1. Avoiding Gender Bias: Instead of using gender-specific pronouns like "he" or "she," opt for gender-neutral alternatives such as "they" or "them." For instance, "Each employee should submit their report by Friday" instead of "Each employee should submit his report by Friday." 2. Using Inclusive Terminology: Instead of using gendered terms like "fireman" or "stewardess," use gender-neutral terms such as "firefighter" or "flight attendant." For example, "The firefighter rescued the cat from the tree" rather than "The fireman rescued the cat from the tree." 3. Avoiding Assumptions about Roles and Occupations: Instead of assuming certain occupations or roles are exclusive to a particular gender, use language that acknowledges diversity. For instance, "The nurse provided excellent care" rather than "The female nurse provided excellent care." 4. Being Inclusive of Non-Binary and Transgender Individuals: Use gender-neutral language when referring to individuals whose gender identity may not conform to traditional binary categories. For example, instead of using terms like "ladies and gentlemen," consider alternatives like "guests" or "everyone." 5. Respecting Preferred Pronouns: When addressing individuals, use the pronouns they prefer to describe their gender identity. For example, if someone identifies as non-binary and prefers the pronouns "they/them," respect their preference by using those pronouns in communication. 6. Avoiding Gender Stereotypes: Refrain from using language that reinforces stereotypes about gender roles, characteristics, or behaviors. For instance, instead of saying, "Boys will be boys," which perpetuates the 16 stereotype of boys being rowdy or mischievous, use language that does not generalize based on gender. 7. Using Gender-Neutral Job Titles: Use job titles that do not specify gender when referring to individuals in professional contexts. For example, use "chairperson" instead of "chairman" or "flight crew" instead of "flight attendants." GENDER-BIASED BIAS-FREE ancestors forefathers artificial humanity Man-made, mankind average/ordinary person common man chair, chairperson, chairman coordinator freshman first-year student manpower human resources congressman legislator, representative mail-man, postman mail carrier, letter carrier, businessman, salesman postal worker man business person, sales policeman representative person, waiter/waitress, authoress, individual stewardess police officer server, author, flight attendant Political Correctness This refers to language and behavior that seeks to avoid offending or marginalizing individuals or groups based on race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, or religion. It emphasizes sensitivity, inclusivity, and respect for diversity 1. Avoiding Offensive Language: Instead of using terms that have historically been derogatory or offensive towards certain groups, such as 17 racial slurs or derogatory terms for people with disabilities, opt for more neutral or respectful language. For instance, instead of using the term "handicapped," use "person with a disability." 2. Respecting Pronouns and Gender Identity: Respect individuals' gender identity by using their preferred pronouns and avoiding assumptions based on appearance. For instance, if someone identifies as non-binary and uses the pronouns "they/them," respect their identity by using those pronouns when referring to them. 3. Avoiding Stereotypes and Generalizations: Refrain from making sweeping generalizations or stereotypes about particular groups of people based on their race, ethnicity, gender, or other characteristics. Instead, focus on individuals' unique qualities and experiences. 4. Acknowledging Diversity: Use language that acknowledges and respects group diversity. Instead of assuming that all individuals within a particular racial or ethnic group share the same experiences or perspectives, recognize each individual's unique backgrounds and identities. 5. Being Mindful of Power Dynamics: Be aware of power dynamics in communication, particularly when interacting with individuals or groups who may be marginalized or disadvantaged. Avoid language or behavior that perpetuates stereotypes or reinforces existing power imbalances. 6. Using Inclusive Language: Use inclusive and welcoming language to all individuals, regardless of their background or identity. For instance, instead of using gender-specific terms like "mankind," use gender-neutral alternatives like "humanity" or "people." 7. Respecting Cultural Sensitivities: Be mindful of cultural sensitivities and avoid language or behavior that may be disrespectful or offensive to individuals from different cultural backgrounds. This includes refraining 18 from appropriating cultural symbols or practices without understanding their significance. BIASED BIAS-FREE Cheating, dishonest ugly academic dishonesty, negra ethnically disoriented, bald aesthetically challenged disabled black drug addict, broken comb-free home/family poor differently-abled old drug-dependent deaf dysfunctional family squatters economically marginalized mental retardation, body odor, elderly, senior homeless hearing impaired fat informal settlers pervert psychopath, computer intellectual disability, illiterate short, blind intellectual development disorder, nondiscretionary fragrance outdoor urban people of mass sexually dysfunctional socially misaligned technologically challenged vertically challenged, visually challenged 19 DID YOU KNOW? 20