1. Who Am I? Cultures in America

2. Culture Values and perspectives shared by people who are “conditioned by similar education and life experience” –Regional: country, area, community –Religion: sects, variations, etc... –Corporate: industry, company, department –Other groups: schools, clubs, etc...

3. Values & Perceptions That Differ Within & Across CULTURES Individualism and collectivism Nature of change Perception of gender roles Criteria/definitions of success Perception of space Nature of authority Perception of time Nature of humor Importance of hierarchies

4. Communication Practices (norms) That Differ Within & Across CULTURES Role of written communication Role of meetings Patterns of reasoning and argumentation Level of formality in inter-personal communications Oral presentation style Non-verbal communication behaviors

5. Characteristics of CULTURE Culture is not inherent, but learned Cultures are rooted in deep seated beliefs Culture is the basis for self-identity and community Cultures are dynamic

6. Tips for Approaching Cross Cultural Communications Avoid ethnocentrism –Is the belief or attitude that one's own group is superior Look beyond stereotypes –is a generalized perception of a first impression: behaviors presumed by a group of people judging with the eyes & criticizing ones outer appearance (or a population in general) to be associated with another specific group. Seek common ground Observe non-verbal cues Study your own and other cultures

7. Identify Your Own Cultural Orientation Nationality Age Ethnicity Economic status Gender Race Urban-suburban-rural Geographic region

8. Write a paragraph on some area of cultural discrimination that you have observed in school –Remember a paragraph includes: 4-5 sentences Correct grammar and punctuation Answer the question