Finding Three: Intercultural Reflections
Learning experiences that intentionally address intercultural learning and provide space, time and strategies for reflection saw greater gains in intercultural outcomes than learning experiences that didn’t intentionally include intercultural learning. Why? Intercultural awareness and communication are skills that needs support to develop. Learners often need to struggle with conflicting information or disorienting emotions. For example, consider this Elon student’s struggle to make sense after engaging in dialogue with a Kanaka Maoli, or native Hawaiian. In this course, the faculty facilitator provided structured time for reflection on intercultural experiences, story sharing, and readings that were intentionally designed to decolonize students’ perceptions of Hawai’i and inspire cultural humility.
Reflection Prompts
- Where in your learning environment would it be useful for students to have the ability to communicate effectively with those different from themselves?
- How do you support learners when they struggle to make meaning in your learning environment?
