Study Guide

Objective

On completion of the course the student
- understands the basic concepts and perspectives of intercultural encounters (e.g. identity, cross-cultural vs. intercultural and emic vs. etic perspectives)
- is aware of the cultural dimensions relevant for professional interaction (concept of time, individualism-collectivism, and hierarchy)
- is able to retrieve, process and critically evaluate information regarding immigration, diversity, non-discrimination and equity
- reflects on his/her own starting points and developmental needs regarding intercultural encounters at work

Content

The key concepts and theoretical frameworks for intercultural studies.
Diversity in groups and in society.
The challenges of expats and immigrants (incl. visits and/or visitors).
Intercultural encounters in professional settings.
Intercultural competence and global literacy.

Location and time

Online lessons 6 h, independent study 129 h

Teaching methods

On completion of the course the student
- understands the basic concepts and perspectives of intercultural encounters
- is aware of the cultural dimensions relevant for professional interaction (concept of time, individualism-collectivism, and hierarchy)
- is able to retrieve, process and critically evaluate information regarding immigration, diversity, non-discrimination and equity
- reflects on his/her own starting points and developmental needs regarding intercultural encounters at work

Core contents:
- the key concepts and theoretical frameworks for intercultural studies
- diversity in groups and in society
- the challenges of expats and immigrants
- intercultural encounters in professional settings
- intercultural competence and global literacy
- Written assignments: online assignments

International connections

The course is implemented in English and is also intended for exchange students of Karelia UAS and UEF.

Content scheduling

The course is organized by Karelia UAS in cooperation with University of Eastern Finland. The minimum amount of students is 20 in order for the course to take place. The course is completely online.

1. Online Kick-off
2. Online meeting
3. Online meeting

Evaluation scale

H-5

Assessment methods and criteria

Written learning assignments in the online learning environment. 0-5.

Assessment criteria, fail (0)

0 = Fail
Presentation and reflection of inappropriate concepts as well as no dialogue. Use of inappropriate or no references. Study process and learning blog demonstrate no critical thinking, although do not follow assignment instructions.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2)

1 = Accepted/ Passed
Presentation and reflection of only few concepts as well as little dialogue. Use of only some topical references. Study process and learning blog demonstrate little critical thinking, although follow minimally assignment instructions.

2 = Satisfactory
Presentation and reflection of some of the concepts as well as some dialogue in student´s learning blog. Use of topical references. Study process and learning blog demonstrate a little critical thinking, although follow assignment instructions.

Assessment criteria, good (3-4)

3 = Good
Presentation and reflection of concepts as well as good dialogue in student´s learning blog. Critical use of references. Study process and learning blog demonstrate good in-depth and critical thinking and follow assignment instructions.

4 = Very good
Broad presentation and reflection of concepts as well as coherent and well-grounded dialogue in student´s learning blog. Many-sided and critical use of references. Study process and learning blog demonstrate very good in-depth and critical thinking and follow assignment instructions.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

5 = Excellent
Broad and deep presentation and reflection of concepts as well as coherent and well-grounded dialogue in student´s learning blog. Many-sided and critical use of references. Study process and learning blog demonstrate excellent in-depth and critical thinking and follow assignment instructions.