Date of Award

8-16-2015

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. John Caputo

Second Advisor

Dr. Giovanni Caputo

Abstract

The need for being comfortable in a diverse setting is growing. From work, to a personal life to academia, intercultural interactions are critical. This thesis will use a cross-case study, secondary meta-data analysis to show the importance of adjusting communication for effective relationships. The study focused on students who are going abroad, their time abroad, difficulties they encountered and how they were resolved. Culture guides many parts of who a person is including: actions, expectations, values and beliefs. Learning about another culture can prepare a student to go abroad. Challenges can be reduced and the student can be aware of their developing global worldview. This research takes a dynamic viewpoint to show the influence culture has on communication and interpersonal interactions. Students can use the situational context, verbal communication and nonverbal clues to create more effective relationships. The uncertainty reduction theory frames this study showing the importance of being able to predict behavior before it happens and explain behavior after it happens. Cultural knowledge helps students who are going abroad reduce uncertainty by building confidence.

Comments

All rights reserved.

Download

Share

COinS