Part A: Instructions for the Final Project
Select a culture that you wish to research through experience with members of the culture. The culture doesn’t need to be a global culture. It just needs to be a group that fits the definition of culture we have used throughout class. For example, if you have not experienced a “CrossFit” culture, you could take time interacting with this group at a CrossFit gym or other place where you might find members of this culture and then report your findings.
As part of this paper, use the theories, concepts and approaches we have discussed in class to make sense of and describe your cultural experiences.
The paper should be five to seven pages, double spaced, and typed. It should begin with an introduction that identifies the culture you have chosen and why you think it is important to study the given group. This introduction should be no more than 1 page in length. The rest of the document should contain a logically organized and detailed description of the culture based on your experience in the culture. If you struggle trying to figure out a culture to study, ideas for topics to cover in your paper could be answers to some of the questions listed in Part B. Of course, your own questions are considered more important and are highly encouraged. I suggest that you interact with me for help in completing this project if you have any questions. Please start you project immediately.
Part B: Suggested Project Questions (Not all of these questions have to or can be answered in your paper).
What are some of the value differences between this culture and your own?
What are some nonverbal communication differences found in this culture?
What are some communication style differences found in this culture?
What are some language or dialectical differences found in this culture?
How are social roles/gender roles viewed in this culture?
Are there differences in interpersonal/romantic relationships in this culture?
How does this culture’s history influence perception and communication between this culture and your own culture?
What are some of the stereotypes people of your culture have about people in the culture you have chosen? Is there any truth to them?
What are some of the important social issues in this culture and how are these issues communicated, or not communicated?
How do prejudice and discrimination play a role in this culture?
What are beliefs, values, and norms upheld in this particular culture. How does this influence interaction?