Intercultural Communication Skills

WHAT: Intercultural workshop for students of M.Sc. Biology and M.Sc. Evolution, Ecology and Systematics (EES) in cooperation with M.Sc. Biology and M.Sc. EES

WHEN: Wednesday, October 7th, 2015 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. (Workshop 1) and 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Workshop 2); Friday, October 9th, 2015 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. (Workshop 3) and 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. (Workshop 4)

WHERE: Biocenter (Faculty of Biology, Großhaderner Str. 2, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried), room D00.013

FOR WHOM: International and local students of M.Sc. Biology and M.Sc. Evolution, Ecology and Systematics (EES) at LMU

FEES: none

NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: max. 18

REGISTRATION: The registration for the workshop will be conducted by the Master programs via LSF.

TRAINER: Mirjam Rossa

DESCRIPTION OF THE WORKSHOP:

Studying in a multicultural environment is enriching, but also presents challenges. This workshop deals with the intricacies of culture. It gives students the opportunity to compare selected aspects of culture – like teaching and learning styles, interaction with professors and fellow students – across cultures. Students will learn about the concept of "culture shock": the relocation to a new international environment is usually marked with excitement and euphoria in the first weeks, but then confusion and anxiety may occur. The knowledge about this process can be very useful for understanding what is happening around and within oneself when living and studying in a foreign setting.

Also practical aspects will be discussed. "How should I address my professor?", "What is the proper conduct in an office hour?", or "How do I make friends?" are just a few examples of the many issues international students frequently face. Understanding these issues commonly occuring in a multicultural environment helps avoid conflicts. Learning intercultural communication skills can bring many advantages, not only for studies in foreign countries, but also for your future career.

The workshop is aimed toward all students (both local and international) interested in intercultural communication. The workshop will be interactive, allowing participants to practice their newly acquired cultural knowledge and skills. Practical exercises will intensify the transfer of intercultural knowledge.

 

The workshop will be in English.

In case of any question, please get in contact with the Intercultural Counseling Office of LMU ikberatung@lmu.de.