Promoting Intercultural Understanding: A Work In Progress

Promoting Intercultural Understanding: Education Beyond the Classroom

At a UN School, promoting intercultural understanding is a crucial aspect of fostering harmony and cooperation in our diverse global society, cooperation that is so obviously lacking in our current climate. By embracing cultural diversity and seeking to understand different perspectives, we build bridges across cultures and promote mutual respect. Research in psychology has shown that intercultural understanding leads to increased empathy, reduced prejudice, and enhanced communication skills, skills that are key for our kids today.

Much (now dated) research suggests that one of the fundamental ways to promote intercultural understanding is through intergroup contact. This theory suggests that increasing contact between individuals from different cultural backgrounds can help reduce prejudice and improve intercultural relations. Pettigrew and Tropp (2006) support this idea, highlighting the positive effects of intergroup contact on attitudes towards outgroup members. At UNIS, our Board has made the careful decision to put nationality caps in place to ensure diversity, and our community regularly identifies diversity as one of the reasons they choose UNIS Hanoi.

Developing cultural intelligence (CQ) has been identified as a valuable skill for promoting intercultural understanding. Individuals with high CQ are adept at understanding and interacting effectively with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Studies by Ang et al. (2007) have demonstrated the importance of CQ in enhancing intercultural competence and fostering positive cross-cultural interactions. The CQ skills identified are also even more salient in a post-Covid world in which students in many countries are increasingly suffering from anxiety and depression.

In addition to individual efforts, creating inclusive environments that celebrate diversity is essential for promoting intercultural understanding. Research by Dovidio et al. (2007) emphasizes the role of inclusive organizational practices in reducing prejudice and promoting intergroup harmony. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect, organizations can cultivate a sense of belonging among individuals from different cultural backgrounds. We are all aware that this remains an area of growth for most organizations. I am proud of the work our team at UNIS Hanoi has done to increase diversity in our teaching faculty, and I salute our parents who have welcomed the shifts that help us to serve our students ever better.

Furthermore, promoting intercultural understanding requires active listening and empathy. Research by Davis and Empathy (2011) underscores the importance of empathetic listening in building connections across cultures. By listening attentively and seeking to understand others' perspectives, we can bridge cultural divides and foster meaningful relationships. I am proud that I have been a listening leader, and I am aware, too, that listening is not enough. With listening, I have found that our students of colour have felt heard and, to some extent, empowered. And the sentiments need to be accompanied by action and I am so pleased that we have engaged in a number of initiatives - often led by students - that will help us in this work.?

Engaging in cultural exchange programs and multicultural events can also facilitate intercultural understanding. Research by Ward et al. (2014) highlights the positive impact of cultural immersion experiences on intercultural competence and empathy towards others. By participating in such programs, individuals can broaden their cultural horizons and develop a deeper appreciation for diversity.?

In conclusion, promoting intercultural understanding is a multifaceted endeavor that requires a combination of individual efforts and societal initiatives. By embracing cultural diversity, developing cultural intelligence, creating inclusive environments, practicing empathy, and engaging in cultural exchange programs, we can work towards building a more inclusive and harmonious world. Through continued research and practical application of these strategies, we can foster a culture of mutual respect and understanding across cultures.

References

Ang, S., Van Dyne, L., & Koh, C. (2007). Personality correlates of the four-factor model of?cultural intelligence. Group & Organization Management, 32(1), 100-123.

Davis, M. H. (2011). Empathy: A social psychological approach. Routledge.

Dovidio, J. F., Gaertner, S. L., & Saguy, T. (2007). Commonality and the complexity of "we":?Social attitudes and social change. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 11(2),?97-125.

Pettigrew, T. F., & Tropp, L. R. (2006). A meta-analytic test of intergroup contact theory. Journal?of Personality and Social Psychology, 90(5), 751-783.

Ward, C., Bochner, S., & Furnham, A. (2014). The psychology of culture shock. Routledge.