The course taught students key models and concepts of intercultural communication, including the Communication Process Model, the concept of Cultural Intelligence (CQ), and Erin Meyer's “Culture Map.” The focus was not only on theory, but above all on concrete applications in professional and technical communication: How does writing change in intercultural contexts, for example? What needs to be considered in feedback, leadership, or decision-making when different cultural values collide?
A particular highlight of the course was its practical application: students developed their own training program for intercultural communication aimed at specialists and managers. Even now that the on-campus week is over, the exchange remains lively: participants meet virtually with Prof. Melton on a weekly basis, and a German student is conducting an interview with two students from Michigan who are currently doing internships – a real example of international cooperation in action.
We would like to thank Prof. Melton for his commitment and a look forward to the upcoming virtual sessions!