Intercultural Communication
100 Key Terms A-Z Mastery
Resource for Asst. Prof. Dr. Janpha Thadphoothon
JT Blog - logged and managed by Janpha Thadphoothon, a lecturer at the Faculty of Arts, Dhurakij Pundit University (DPU), Bangkok, Thailand
Resource for Asst. Prof. Dr. Janpha Thadphoothon
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Assistant Professor Janpha Thadphoothon's Learning Module
The Orbital Perspective represents a fundamental shift in how we perceive our place in the universe. In orbit, the Earth is revealed not as a map of separate countries, but as a singular, highly integrated biological system. This perspective emphasizes that our survival depends on the health of the whole planet, rather than the success of individual nations.
Astronauts often describe "Spaceship Earth"—the realization that we are all travelers on a craft with limited resources. In this closed system, every action in one region eventually affects all others. Whether it is the air we breathe or the water in our oceans, there are no "external" places to discard our waste; we must manage our resources with the precision of a spacecraft crew.
Furthermore, the "Thin Blue Line" of our atmosphere serves as a stark reminder of our vulnerability. It is a paper-thin shield that separates all known life from the lethal vacuum of space. Understanding this creates a sense of global stewardship—the responsibility to protect our shared home for future generations.
Demonstrate your understanding of the Orbital Perspective by selecting the correct options below:
1. The atmosphere appears as a blue line protecting us from space.
2. The "Spaceship Earth" concept implies we have resources to manage.
3. From orbit, national borders are .
4. Taking responsibility for the whole planet is known as global .
5. The perspective shift moves from "intellectual knowledge" to .
Course: Intercultural Communication
A meme is more than just a joke. It is defined as text or an image with words[cite: 2, 3].
In the digital age, these serve as a powerful form of cultural expression[cite: 4].
Online communication is almost always cultural[cite: 32].
Memes provide insight into how language and culture intersect online, reflecting societal trends and shared experiences[cite: 5].
Memes can highlight contradictions, such as the gap between the belief that "Every skin colour is beautiful" and the marketing of "Fairness cream"[cite: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12].
This allows us to analyze deeper societal biases[cite: 7].
The motivation for learning English is changing. It is no longer just for good grades[cite: 25].
Many learners now study English specifically to understand memes and participate in digital culture[cite: 28, 29].
Asst. Prof. Dr. Janpha Thadphoothon
Hello! I am your AI Teaching Assistant. I am here to help you explore the vital "unwritten rules" of global interaction.
Please enter your name to begin the lesson.
Intercultural communication is more than words—it involves cultural perceptions and symbol systems. It is the process of sending and receiving messages where these differences are distinct enough to alter the event.
In the 21st century, cross-cultural competence is a necessity for Global Integration, Workplace Success, and Social Harmony (especially within the ASEAN community).
Cross-cultural Communication Competence (CCCC) is the ability to adapt effectively. It is built on three pillars:
This foundation involves "standing back from ourselves" to recognize our own values and perceptions without passing judgment.
A step beyond awareness. It is the acceptance and appreciation of differences, allowing these feelings to positively influence our decisions.
Developing competence helps prevent misunderstandings caused by different communication styles (e.g., high-context vs. low-context) that lead to "culture shock."
In many Asian cultures, relationship-building is a prerequisite for professional collaboration. Knowledge of cultural values is key to establishing this trust.
By reducing prejudices and acknowledging the value of differences, we create more inclusive environments in our schools and workplaces.
Learning a new language is "a new life." It provides a new window to view the world, which is vital for engaging with international partners.
In a "tight" society like Thailand, learning to navigate "looser" social systems is crucial for global mobility and navigating a changing world.
Practice Exercise: 10 Questions
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Learn 10 fundamental concepts about communication and culture. Please enter your name to begin.
Language shapes how we perceive reality. Specific words make us more attuned to specific social emotions.
Example: "Greng-jai" in Thai has no direct English equivalent.
Culture is a learned "Way of Life" that is dynamic and passed down through generations. It dictates daily actions and physical behavior.
Thai proverbs often use nature and water metaphors, reflecting the country's river-based agricultural history.
Distinction between National (Standard Thai), Local (Kam Mueang), and Foreign languages.
Chronemics: how different cultures perceive and value time (e.g., "9:00 sharp" vs "9-ish").
High-context cultures (Japan/Thailand) use indirect messaging and shared cultural codes.
Focus on the "I" vs. the group "We". Thais often prioritize group harmony over personal rewards.
Internalized social dispositions that become physical reflexes, like bowing to elders.
Surface (Visible) culture vs. Deep (Invisible) culture like the value of "Sabai-Sabai".
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Intercultural Communication: 100 Key Terms Intercultural Communicatio...