TR4051 - Cultural Awareness (2026/27)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2026/27 | |||||||||||||||
| Module title | Cultural Awareness | |||||||||||||||
| Module level | Certificate (04) | |||||||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 15 | |||||||||||||||
| School | Guildhall School of Business and Law | |||||||||||||||
| Total study hours | 150 | |||||||||||||||
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| Assessment components |
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| Running in 2026/27(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
On this module, you will explore various aspects of intercultural communication, focusing on key theories and concepts such as cultural hybridity, communication styles, and intercultural competence. You will investigate the impact of cultural differences in international professional contexts and will gain a solid understanding of key issues surrounding cultural diversity and sensitivity. Through interactive lectures, seminars, and group discussions, you will develop autonomy and enhance your communication skills with peers from a broad range of backgrounds and subject areas.
Key skills developed will focus on oral and written communication, such as academic writing and presentations styles, research and critical reading, as well as the development of transferable study skills, such as time management and revision techniques.
Syllabus
The syllabus of this module will include:
• Exploration of conceptual frameworks from various disciplines including cultural studies, translation studies and postcolonial studies to understand the impact of cultural backgrounds, values and systems of power on successful written and oral communication (LO1, LO3).
• An introduction to basic intercultural mediation techniques and examination of identity formation and negotiation in intercultural encounters, particularly in professional contexts (LO2, LO3).
• Opportunities to discuss, practise, and develop key academic and communication skills essential for intercultural understanding and professional communication (LO4).
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
Weekly interactive lectures, seminars and discussions will cover the different themes outlined in the syllabus and develop the various learning skills through practical exercises performed individually, in pairs and in groups. The teaching/facilitating process will focus on enhancing and boosting students’ confidence and commitment in their learning experience and collaborative work.
Regular sessions will also be scheduled to improve such skills as notetaking, information seeking, critical reading and academic writing among others. Lecturers’ teaching notes will be made accessible to students on Weblearn and activity sheets will be provided to them during seminar sessions for problem-solving activities.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:
• Interpret key concepts and theories of intercultural communication.
• Develop informed arguments around intercultural knowledge in professional contexts and mediation situations.
• Differentiate common cultural issues such as stereotypes or prejudices, and assess their impact on successful communication.
• Display effective oral and written communication skills to convey ideas in professional settings, with a focus on clarity, cultural sensitivity, and audience awareness.