Reflecting on and with the 'More-than-Human' in Education: Things for Interculturality

This book explores the overlooked aspect of intercultural awareness, the presence and influence of things on our experiences of interculturality. It encourages teachers, teacher educators, scholars, and students to embrace the richness of the more-than-human world for intercultural communication education.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 76 pages
Publication date: 11 November 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate and often misunderstood concept of interculturality, shedding light on one crucial aspect that has been overlooked in research and education. It explores the profound presence and influence of things on our experiences, actions, and reflections of interculturality. By engaging readers in a reflective journey, this book offers a unique opportunity to delve into the richness of the more-than-human world, which holds immense potential for enhancing intercultural communication education.

The book begins by acknowledging the pervasive influence of things in our daily lives, from the objects we interact with to the environments we inhabit. It highlights how these things shape our perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors, influencing how we engage with others from different cultural backgrounds. Through a series of thought-provoking chapters, the book encourages readers to examine the role of things in shaping intercultural encounters and relationships.

One of the key themes explored is the concept of material culture, which refers to the physical artifacts, symbols, and practices that constitute a culture. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding material culture as a dynamic and interconnected system, which reflects the values, beliefs, and experiences of a particular community. It explores how things such as clothing, food, architecture, and technology can convey messages, create meaning, and facilitate or hinder intercultural communication.

Another important aspect of the book is the role of embodiment in intercultural encounters. It argues that our bodies and physical experiences play a crucial role in shaping our interactions with others and in interpreting cultural differences. The book explores how our senses, emotions, and physical sensations can influence our perception of the world and how this can impact our ability to communicate effectively across cultures.

Furthermore, the book discusses the importance of reflexivity in intercultural encounters. It encourages readers to reflect on their own cultural biases, assumptions, and prejudices, and to recognize how these can impact their interactions with others. It provides practical strategies for developing self-awareness and empathy, which are essential for building effective intercultural relationships.

The book also addresses the challenges and complexities associated with intercultural communication. It recognizes that intercultural encounters are often fraught with misunderstandings, tensions, and conflicts due to differences in language, values, and beliefs. It offers practical strategies for navigating these challenges, such as active listening, cultural humility, and the ability to adapt and flexibly respond to different cultural contexts.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable contribution to the field of intercultural communication by exploring the overlooked role of things in shaping our experiences of interculturality. It encourages readers to engage with the richness of the more-than-human world and to develop a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of intercultural encounters. By doing so, it aims to promote greater empathy, understanding, and collaboration across cultures.

Weight: 152g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811978104
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022