American University
School of International Service
Cross-Cultural Communication for International Business
Summer 2016
Course Description
Business is conducted in an increasingly globalized economy with diverse people,
economic systems, and global forces. This course seeks to give students the knowledge
and skills necessary to thrive in a global economy. The course begins with an overview of
global economics and trade, introducing students to the impact of globalization on
business. Next, the course conceptualizes culture and discusses its implications for
business communication. Through lectures, course readings, case studies, learning
activities, and self-reflection, students develop cultural awareness in the areas of
management, negotiations, and marketing. Students who complete the course are better
prepared to assume leadership roles in the global economy.
Course Objectives
 Understand concepts related to cross-cultural communication.
 Increase awareness of one’s own skill-level.
 Gain exposure to practices that increase cross-cultural communication skills.
Learning Outcomes – Students Will be Able To
 Successfully articulate the ways in which culture shapes communication in the
workplace.
 Critically analyze and interpret scenarios involving cross-cultural communication.
 Reflect upon one’s own cultural worldviews and skills and identify areas for
growth.
Assignments (Assignments will vary, depending on instructor.)
 Attendance and Participation (15% of final grade)
 Reflection Essay (35% of final grade): Identify your level of intercultural
competence according to the spectrum proposed by Milton Bennett. Give
examples to illustrate your present worldview, and discuss ways in which your
worldview vis-à-vis cultural difference helps and/or hinders your communication
with others?
 Analytical Paper (50% of final grade): Complete a paper analyzing a case of
cross-cultural miscommunication in the areas of management, negotiations, or
marketing. Draw on the course readings and conduct additional independent
research to propose strategies for repairing the breakdown. (Approximately 1500
words.)