Learning outcomes / skillsThis module is intended to develop students’ cross-cultural effectiveness in the contexts of international business and diversity with a focus on leadership, communication, media and technology. After successful completion of this course, students will have a thorough understanding of the implications of culture on business and communication in and beyond the physical and digital workspace to foster synergies for competitive advantage. They will have a critical understanding of established cross-cultural management theories and their limitations for appropriate application in the business world. Throughout this module, students are actively encouraged to develop their own reasoning and problem-solving skills to address business and social challenges, opportunities and responsibilities with informed analysis and innovation.
Professional competenceAfter successful completion of this module, students will have:
• in-depth understanding of the impact of culture, particularly in the fields of business communication and leadership
• in-depth understanding of the role of culture in technology adoption, electronically-mediated communication and media
• critical understanding of leading models in cross-cultural management and communication
• insight into how to work with, build and manage cross-cultural teams (real and virtual)
• the skills to prepare for and foster cross-cultural business relationships
• the knowledge to share and lead on cross-cultural interaction within organisations
Technical competenceAfter successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
• evaluate and continually develop their own cross-cultural communication skills
• anticipate and address the cultural impact on business behaviours, processes and values
• compare, apply, and critically assess cross-cultural and media-related frameworks in academic and professional contexts in English
• independently research, analyze, and interpret current developments in digital communication, media ecosystems, and cross-cultural management
• apply media- and technology-informed approaches to real-world international business communication challenges
Personal competence
After successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
• reflect on and contribute to international and cross-cultural dialogue and co-operation in and beyond the business world
• develop awareness of their role in shaping and interpreting media and communication processes in international contexts
• enhance their ability to adapt communication and interaction styles in diverse cultural and media environments• strengthen their capacity for reflective judgment in relation to technology, media influence, and cultural difference
Social competence
After successful completion of this module, students will have the resources to: • communicate effectively and responsibly in culturally and digitally diverse environments
• collaborate constructively in international, media-mediated teams and network
• critically engage in dialogue on cultural, technological, and media-related issues in professional settings
• develop strategies for effective cooperation across cultural and technological boundaries
Contents•
Globalization, digitalization, and media convergence• Culture: definitions, models, and impact on business communication• Cross-cultural management and leadership in digital environments• Media, culture, and organizational communication• Cross-cultural marketing, digital media, and communication strategies
Methods of Teaching and Learning• Interactive seminar
The module seeks to develop team and communication skills in addition to continual reflection throughout the semester. The module is structured to synergise independent critical thought, skilled and targeted application of acquired skills and teamwork.
• Written and research assignments
Students are expected to complete readings and tasks independently as study assignments and to contribute well-prepared findings and evaluations in class.
• Presentations in small groups
• Independent study and research
• Case studies
• Expert interviews
• Surveys
• Scholarly articles
• Practical tasks and participation
• Constructive discussion and peer review