1. Why did she do that? Ways of viewing intercultural communication

3. Hall, 1959 High-context & low-context cultures Adapted from UBC Centre for Intercultural Communication 2005 Low-context High-context Most information resides in explicit messages. Most information resides in receiver and setting. Sender must make the message clear. Receiver must ‘intuit’ meaning of the message. Emphasis on direct, unambiguous messages. Emphasis on relational aspects of the message. HR decisions based on skills and rules only. HR decisions based on maintaining stability of cultural patterns. Culture is receptive to change. Cultural patterns slow to change.

5. Hofstede, 1996 - Values Framework Collectivism vs. Individualism Adapted from UBC Centre for Intercultural Communication 2005 Individualist Collectivist Individual responsible for self and immediate family Extended families/groups provide protection; require loyalty Low-context communication (Hall) High-context communication (Hall) Speaking one’s mind = honesty Harmony important; direct confrontations avoided Task prevails over relationship Relationships prevail over task Everyone has right to privacy Private life invaded by group(s) Ultimate goal: self-actualization Ultimate goal: harmony and consensus

6. Hofstede, 1996 - Values Framework High vs. low power distance Adapted from UBC Centre for Intercultural Communication 2005 Inequalities are expected and desired Inequalities should be minimized Parents teach children obedience; children treat parents with respect Parents and children are equals Teachers expected to take all initiative Students expected to take some initiative Privileges and status symbols sought Privileges and status symbols frowned upon Wide salary range within organizations Narrow salary range within organizations High power distance Low power distance