Cross Cultural Learning

Download the Internationalising the Curriculum Toolkit 2011

What is it?

Cross cultural learning involves understanding how cultures are inter-connected and inter-related. This learning takes place in courses of study through an internationalised curriculum. Internationalising the curriculum describes a way of being culturally versatile, responsive and aware.

Internationalisation seeks to integrate international, intercultural and global perspectives and dimensions into university activity. An internationalised curriculum is both international in its content and outlook and inclusive in the way that it is taught and assessed. But cross cultural learning at VU also seeks to value diversity, including students' skills in other languages as well as English.

Cross cultural learning of the Curriculum at VU

• Is based on a respect for diversity
• Aims to prepare students to perform professionally and socially in global and multicultural context.

Cross cultural learning is equally relevant to local and international students

• Includes teaching methods that are diverse, inclusive and explicit and that do not disadvantage any student
• Is broadened by an internationally comparative approach
• Develops and assesses intercultural communications skills and critical thinking
• Is embedded in curriculum, but varies according to discipline and AQF standards
• Is achieved through collaboration with a diverse group of stakeholders in the development of a relevant range of resources
• Is based on a view of culture as complex, dynamic and evolving, and avoids stereotyping, generalisation and monolithic descriptions of cultures including our own
  

Building cross cultural capabilities can be achieved at the course development level by including content and activities that:

• are based on comparative studies
• have an international focus
• are interdisciplinary in nature
• have an international component
• give students a choice of national contexts on which to base their study
• approach the subject matter through cases, simulations and role plays that provide insights into contexts and conditions

References

Woodley, C., & Pearce, A. (2007). A Toolkit for Internationalising the Curriculum at VU: Victoria University

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