As a scientist, we often work in a cross-cultural setting. Our research groups are international, we collaborate around the globe, and most of us will spend part -or even all- of our career abroad. We can and should feel privileged to work in such a diverse and intercultural work environment. But these cultural and -of course- also individual differences can lead to all sorts of misunderstandings. These misunderstandings can lead to various undesired consequences, such as failed collaborations, frustrations, feelings of hurt, anxiety and anger, culture shock and missed opportunities for knowledge transfer.

Cultural awareness is the first step in sidestepping these undesired consequences. We can improve our cross-cultural relations and tap from the full potential of your intercultural teams

In this course you´ll learn about:

• About (your) culture
• About communication and other challenges that might arise from cultural differences.
• What steps you can take to understand culture and be more effective in handling cultural communication differences.

Your efforts should:

• Improve the effectiveness of your international and interdisciplinary collaborations
• Avoid miscommunication in the professional and private setting
• Make you see the beauty of this ‘wonderful intercultural science mess’

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