Introduction

Culture and cultural differences can have a powerful effect and lead to misunderstanding and conflicts. Cultural awareness is necessary to manage differences that we otherwise tend to measure against our own standards. Learning about cultural differences and finding ways those differences can be turned into strengths that will enable you to solve problems in a unique and creative manner.

Why might learning to work with a variety of people be important to help you achieve your goals?

How might you practice working with a variety of people this week? What might the results of your actions be?

Critical Thinking

Consider the following situation on your own: Your school is welcoming a group of exchange students from a different country. One exchange student has joined a group you are leading and she doesn’t speak the same language as well as everyone else in the group. Your group is struggling to communicate with her, and you give her an easy role in the group. She seemed excited at first to join the group, but now she seems frustrated with how different things are than she is used to. She accuses you of not treating her fairly.

What do you do? Try to think of a few different things you could do (positive, negative, and neutral). What might the results of your actions be?

Collaboration

For a small group, each student presents their ideas to the whole class. Provide opportunity for positive feedback from peers or support if they are struggling to think of ideas.

For a larger group, divide students into small groups and have students present their ideas to the small group. Provide opportunity for positive feedback from peers or support if they are struggling to think of ideas.

Application

Review your SMART goal and think about this upcoming week. How might you work better with others to help you achieve your goal? What actions will you take? What might the results of your actions be?

Observations

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