We were divided into two groups, each with differing guidelines and intent. My group had a hierarchical structure based on age; as such, conversations began and were led by members in order from oldest to youngest. We also thrived on close physical contact and were extremely family oriented. We celebrated the health of our loved ones, and also addressed death (or any type of distress) by offering cards to members when such details were shared. The continuous card exchange was a way to show empathy for our fellow group members without any verbal exchange. My group also maintained a calm demeanor, and our conversations were typically quiet. Although this was not defined in our cultural guidelines, I believe it was innate due to our close proximity to one another.
The other group was quite different in comparison. The most obvious difference was their language. This barrier made it difficult for my group's observers and participators to fully understand their culture and so therefore it delayed their participation a bit. This group was also very task-oriented, exchanging cards with one another to accomplish some sort of goal. Defining this goal was inevitably not accomplished due to the dialect differences. The cards were very important in this culture because the end goal was very important. This group seemed to support each other's efforts and so the environment was noisy and a little chaotic as members bounced around looking for different cards to help them achieve the desired sequence. |
Reflection
After participating in this activity and especially after the discussion that ensued, it became obvious that forming intercultural relationships can be uncomfortable for all parties involved if you let them be. When we began the activity, it was difficult and awkward to conform to it, but the longer that we acted within those group with its specified norms, the experience became much easier. I think a learning curve is present when starting anything new. If you are able to jump in headfirst and really make an effort to understand why another culture acts in a certain manner it may be easier to act in an acceptable, non-offensive way as well. It is important to be open-minded and to understand that although we have many differences, we may also have similarities that are at first not obvious. With more experiences similar to this, especially when given time to reflect on my feelings and hearing the feelings of others, it is possible to move along the IDI path to one of eventual acceptance and adaptation.