Cultural Awareness- working with international students Andy Gale

Aims and Objectives Explore the meaning of ‘culture’ and what this might mean to you and to students Look at Culture Shock and how this might affect students Explore some of the practical aspects of this Look at how we might assist international students to start to adapt to British culture

What is culture? In simple terms, ‘culture’ consists of things that people have learned to do, believe, value and enjoy in their history. It is the totality of ideals, beliefs, skills, tools, customs, and institutions into which each member of society is born.” Sue and Sue “Counselling the Culturally Different” (1981)

Culture shock “Culture shock describes the feeling that many students have when they move from one culture to a new and unfamiliar one. It is something that affects many students who live in a new country and it is normal to feel homesick at some time while you are here.” UK Council for International Student Affairs

The effect of new surroundings “I arrived in winter and on a Sunday when everything was closed and it was really cold. I arrived at the accommodation and I didn’t know where to get food or what to do.” “British students have expensive social lives which we cannot afford.” “Most Chinese students like to cook together because there are too many steps in our cooking for one person to do on their own.”

The effect of new surroundings “We are shy and reserved in our country. We are not trained to speak our mind – it is rude to do so, especially with older people.” “I find it easy to talk to British people, but hard to become close friends.” “Holding hands is acceptable, but I find some kissing unacceptable.” “In my country we don’t have support services so we’re not used to asking for help. No one’s going to help if you don’t ask for it.”

Some cultural and practical aspects Accommodation Attitudes to status Climate Socialising Attitudes to time

Some cultural and practical aspects Relationships and gender Language Body language Study methods Assumptions from UK staff and students

What can we do to help? Emphasise that culture shock and homesickness are normal Provide guidance on how students can help themselves Talk and listen to students Provide guidance on opportunities on campus Arrange events with international students in mind, or to facilitate cultural interaction Re-evaluate our own provision for international students – is it sufficient? Is it suitable?

Thank you!