arrow-up
Edit Template
Edit Template

Interpersonal and Intercultural Communication

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

This project explored the complexities of interpersonal and intercultural communication, with a focus on the cultural barriers and adjustments faced when moving to a different country, as well as the comparative cultural landscape of Dhaka and Kolkata. Drawing from personal perspective, the first part identified potential challenges such as ethnocentrism, cultural relativism, language barriers, and emotional hurdles like loneliness and distance from home faced when relocating to the UK for an educational exchange program. The second part applied Dr. Geert Hofstede’s cultural dimensions model to compare the cultural traits, diversity, and communication styles of Dhaka and Kolkata.
Through this dual approach, the project examined how cultural values, languages, religions, and traditions influence daily interactions and shape both challenges and opportunities for cross-cultural understanding. It underscored the importance of cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and mutual respect in a globalized world where differences are inevitable but also enriching.

PROJECT JUSTIFICATION

In an increasingly interconnected world, cultural diversity is both a defining characteristic and a driving force of modern society. However, navigating between cultures especially in high-stakes environments such as education, work, and international collaboration requires more than linguistic competence. It demands an awareness of cultural norms, the ability to adapt to unfamiliar environments, and strategies to overcome prejudice and misunderstanding.
This project is justified by its relevance to real-life cross-cultural experiences. By reflecting on potential barriers when moving abroad and analyzing cultural similarities and differences between two major South Asian cities, the work provides practical insights into effective intercultural communication. It emphasizes that awareness of cultural values such as power distance, collectivism, or attitudes toward diversity can help individuals anticipate challenges, avoid miscommunication, and build stronger, more respectful connections across cultural boundaries.

LEARNINGS & OUTCOMES

Through this project, several key insights emerged:

  1. Heightened Cultural Awareness – Gained deeper understanding of how values, beliefs, and traditions influence communication patterns and interpersonal relationships.
  2. Practical Application of Theory – Applied Hofstede’s cultural dimensions model to analyze real-world cultural contexts, bridging academic theory and lived experience.
  3. Adaptation Skills – Identified concrete strategies for overcoming language barriers, cultural misunderstandings, and emotional challenges in new environments.
  4. Comparative Perspective – Learned to appreciate cultural diversity by contrasting the unique but interconnected traditions of Dhaka and Kolkata.
  5. Self-Reflection – Developed a personal action plan for navigating intercultural spaces, acknowledging both potential difficulties and opportunities for growth.
  6. Communication Competence – Strengthened ability to interpret cultural cues, adjust messaging, and engage respectfully with people from different backgrounds.