040108 UK Intercultural Competence in Business (2022S)

Driven by the increasing internationalisation of economic processes, employees in companies are increasingly faced with the challenge of working together with colleagues and business partners from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. Therefore, a minimum level of intercultural competence is indispensable, especially in the context of multinational companies, and represents a key qualification for numerous professional groups in the field of business administration.

In this course, students develop an understanding of culturally determined differences in communication and behaviour and are sensitised to dealing with stereotypes and prejudices. In this process, reflecting on one's own culture is of central importance. The students develop the ability to recognise and solve or avoid possible conflicts and misunderstandings that can arise due to cultural differences.

Hence, the focus of this course lies on discussion and critical analysis of basic definitions, concepts and classifications of the term 'culture'. Building upon this, the course addresses the cooperation of intercultural teams in intercultural settings.

Methodologically, an experiential learning approach is used. The contents are taught in an application-oriented manner by means of short lectures, case studies, exercises and smaller role plays.