Navigating Difference

A Three Day Course ~ Cultural Competency Training

Oregon State University October 26-28, 2010

Module One ~ Cultural Awareness

• Define diversity broadly, diversity wheel
• Theoretical approaches to diversity work
• Generalizations and Stereo Types
• Cultural Value Orientation

Skill Sets

• Recognize our own culture(s) in Extension and Higher Education.
• Explore personal and cultural values, biases, prejudices and views.
• Identify similarities and differences among cultures.
• Identify ways in which culture shapes beliefs, practices, and values.

Module Two ~ Cultural Understanding

• Developmental stages of intercultural sensitivity
• Skill Sets
• Understand the developmental nature of cultural competencies.
• Describe issues and concerns which arise when values, beliefs, and practices differ from those of the dominant culture.
• Recognize ways culture affects participation in extension programs and services.

Module Three ~ Gathering Cultural Knowledge

• Mapping Community Resources
• Web-based demographic resources
• Choosing a cultural guide

Skill Sets

• Develop familiarity with cultures and the specific ways in which they differ from our own.
• Use conceptual and theoretical models for understanding human culture.
• Identify appropriate cultural guides and build productive relationships with them.

Module Four ~ Cultural Interaction

• Stumbling blocks to intercultural communication
• Verbal and Nonverbal Communication style differences
• Mindful observation and interpretation
• Cultural Conflict Style Differences

Skill Sets

• Recognize factors impacting successful intercultural communication.
• Use concepts and theories of intercultural communication.
• Manage intercultural conflicts effectively.
• Interact productively and seek input and guidance from cultural partners.
• Form new programmatic partnerships across intercultural difference.

Module Five – Intercultural Sensitivity

• Historical and Sociological Differences
• Unearned privilege and oppression

Skill Sets

• Identify historical and sociological influences on specific cultural interactions.
• Recognize the impact of privilege, inequality and oppression in daily contexts.

For more information contact:
daniel . mcgrath (at) oregonstate . edu  phone 503-931-8307
derek . godwin (at) oregonstate . edu    phone 503-510-7582