How can experiencing „culture shock“ deepen your understanding of foreign cultures and lead to your own personal growth? How does our own cultural background influence the way we perceive the world? And what is „culture“ all about?

What feels exciting at first can become challenging during a longer stay abroad in new cultural environment. After the initial motivation has faded, a feeling of disillusion sets in. Maybe you find yourself at odds, as you do not understand many unwritten rules. However, the longer you stay, the more you settle in and gain a deeper understanding of the new culture – and yourself.

In this workshop, we will reflect upon what challenges can arise in the process, illuminating cultural complexities by using practical exercises and the „critical incident“ method.

In this workshop, we explore these challenges through reflection, practical exercises, and the “critical incident” method. A brief introduction to key concepts and selected film excerpts (e.g., Lost in Translation) will complement the course. 

Please note: in order to confirm your registration, you will be required to submit a short written assignment, responding to some preparatory questions of the lecturer. You will receive information about this task two weeks before the seminar.

The workshop is especially targeted at participants in the Buddy Program, international students enrolled at KIT, and local students, who are planning a stay abroad.  For organizational reasons, please indicate in your registration, if you belong to one of these target groups. All other students interested in this topic are welcome!

1 LP

Good English skills (equivalent to B2 level) and a willingness to participate actively and reflectively are required.

Registration required via: https://plus.campus.kit.edu/signmeup/procedures/6883

Good English skills (equivalent to B2 level) and a willingness to participate actively and reflectively are required.