Pre-Departure Orientation

Let’s Talk about Culture

Culture is… Values, beliefs, norms, customs, and other forms of behavior shared by member of a social group over a period of time. EVERYTHING humans have created, both tangible and abstract Stuff: tools, art, technology, music, structures, etc. Organization: Families, clans, clubs, nations, etc. Ideas: Values, religion, law, politics, games, etc.

Concept of Self Notion of Modesty Religious Rituals Art Holiday Customs Music Gestures Facial Expressions Food Concept of Beauty Religious Beliefs Concept of Fairness Importance of Time Work Ethic Concept of Self Notion of Modesty Concept of Personal Space Debrief: What is visible, invisible? What did you discuss (agree/disagree re: placing culture components above or below the line? Compare icebergs. What are the implications for someone new to your environment/culture? What happens if they don’t understand your culture (TCS= Titanic Captain Syndrome).   Future Adaptation/Application-Refer back to challenges listed. Ask participant to share how might/do you use this metaphor with colleagues on campus to improve communication (e.g. between depts.?) Chart responses/ideas. Nature of Friendship Rules of Social Etiquette Based on Activities in What’s Up With Culture at http://www2.pacific.edu/sis/culture/

Is it “Natural” to Do What We Do? Almost all human behavior has been “culturized.” Because we tend to think our behavior is natural, we tend to think it’s “natural” for everyone else.

Ethnocentrism The belief that one’s own way of doing things is the right way. An ethnocentric way of thinking can lead us to develop

Culture Activity Choose an artist and reporter. Draw a picture of a typical person you expect to meet your host culture. The more creative, the better! Represent that culture with images, NO WORDS! Report out in 5 minutes

American Culture?

Combating Ethnocentrism Realize that every culture explains itself. Think about that’s culture’s “worldview.” Be prepared to question your own values and beliefs about life. Ethnocentrism  Ethnorelative

“You see what you expect to see, and what you expect to see is what your culture taught you to expect.” -Dirk Van der Elst, 2003

Culture Shock “W” Curve

Welcome to the Real World Studying abroad is not an “extended vacation.” Other country’s concept of customer service is different from the U.S. Expect to feel confused, frustrated, and awkward at least for the first several weeks. You will question your values as an American and may even loathe the U.S. after awhile. Not having language proficiency doesn’t mean that you can’t express how you feel. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes…because you will.

Expectations vs. Reality Solve this formula: If E > R, then R = D If expectations are greater than reality, then reality can equal disappointment.

“The purpose of higher education is its liberating effect.” -Dirk Van der Elst, 2003

BearWHERE? Study Away Student Photo Contest Submit photos of you studying abroad in your BearWear starting in August! Great Prizes Awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place photos! Photos will be judged on: Creativity of incorporating BearWear Sense of place or country Artistic Interpretation Study Away student blog: http://blogs.missouristate.edu/studyaway/ Reflection and re-entry vents in the fall! Insert BearWear Here!