Through the cultural looking glass: Considering the effects of cross-cultural immersion experiences.

Cross-cultural immersions have been employed by undergraduate programs for decades to increase students' understanding of other cultures. Unfortunately, these programs are rarely offered to graduate level students. The purpose of this study was to explore the components of cross-cultural immersions that are perceived as important to foster deeper level encounters and profound personal growth and deep understanding of the host culture. In addition, the benefits acquired from participation in cross-cultural immersions were identified. Lastly, this study helped identify ways participants implemented what they learned from their cross-cultural experience both at work and personally. The sample consisted of 15 participants who participated in a cross-cultural immersion experience through their doctoral program. This study used a qualitative phenomenology research design and semi-structured interviews were conducted to understand participants' experiences with cross cultural immersions. Results revealed that pre-course preparation, visiting a variety of communities, having a knowledgeable guide, taking classes with others, engaging in activities and service learning, down time, interacting with locals, reflecting, and having a final project were all significant for the immersion. Additionally, the study revealed that participants benefited from a cultural perspective related to their awareness and understanding; grew in their views of the host culture, and their participation in cultural aspects of the immersion. The study also revealed that participants benefited because they were left with a lasting impression through positive experiences. The study revealed participants faced some challenges, but that participants developed in their personal learning, leadership learning, and work environment learning and engaged in meaningful experiences.

A masterpiece in intercultural training! Exploring Culture brings Geert Hofstede's five dimensions of national culture to life. Gert Jan Hofstede and his co-authors Paul Pedersen and Geert Hofstede introduce synthetic cultures, the ten "pure" cultural types derived from the extremes of the five dimensions. The result is a playful book of practice that is firmly rooted in theory. Part light, part serious, but always thought-provoking, this unique book approaches training through the three-part process of building awareness, knowledge, and skills. It leads the reader through the first two components with more than 75 activities, dialogues, stories, and incidents. The Synthetic Culture Laboratory and two full simulations fulfill the skill-building component. Exploring Culture is suitable for students, trainers, coaches and educators. It can be used for individual study or as a text, and it serves as an excellent partner to Geert Hofstede's popular Cultures and Organizations.

Containing chapters by some of the world's leading experts and scholars on the subject, this book provides a broad context for intercultural competence. Including the latest research on intercultural models and theories, it presents guidance on assessing intercultural competence through the exploration of key assessment principles.