ICS : Introduction to Intercultural Studies

ICS 105 syllabus for Fall 2009

This course is designed to give the student a general introduction to cross cultural communication and a specific introduction to US culture.  Throughout the semester, we will examine some of the basics of intercultural theory to provide a conceptual background for developing competent intercultural interactions.  We will explore the meaning of culture and how it affects the way we think and communicate by concentrating on three areas.  We will study US culture by looking first at its values and assumptions and then looking at how these cause “Americans” to approach many specific aspects of their culture.  We will study the phases of cultural adaptation, beginning with the opinions you form before you arrive in a new culture to the special adjustments that take place when you re-enter your original culture.  We will also study the sources and types of intercultural research and theory available.  This course is not meant to teach international students to imitate Americans.  It is designed to convey a deeper understanding of the country and its people in order to help international students to better cope with the cultural differences they will encounter during their stay