A set of scenario-based cards designed to help develop cultural awareness and adaptability by exploring different communication styles and behaviours influenced by cultural backgrounds.
Cultural Perspective Cards
- Cultural Awareness, Effective Communication, Inclusivity
Introduction
Objective/Description
Increase cultural awareness and adaptability.
Steps/Process
- Access the Cultural Scenario Cards
- Mentors can access the set of cultural scenario cards online, where they can view or download them. If they prefer, they can print the cards for easier handling. Each card includes a brief description of a mentoring scenario that reflects cultural differences in communication.
- Select a Card and Read the Scenario Carefully
- Mentors pick one card and read the scenario in detail, imagining that this scenario represents a real mentee interaction.
- Mentors take a moment to consider their initial reaction or instinctive response to the scenario. For example, if the mentee avoids eye contact, does the mentor initially feel that the mentee is disengaged or disinterested?
- Reflect on Cultural Contexts
- Mentors then consider cultural factors that might influence the mentee’s behavior. Using background knowledge or a short guide on cultural communication norms (if available), mentors think through why certain actions or behaviors are preferred in some cultures.
- For example, in some cultures, avoiding eye contact is a sign of respect, especially with authority figures, while direct eye contact may be perceived as confrontational.
- Decide on a Response Strategy
- Mentors write down how they would approach communication with the mentee in this scenario. They should consider ways to adapt their behavior to make the mentee feel respected and comfortable. For instance:
- If a mentee avoids eye contact, the mentor might use a warm tone, open body language, and avoid forcing direct eye contact.
- If a mentee seems hesitant to speak openly, the mentor could use gentle encouragement, ask open-ended questions, and avoid putting the mentee on the spot.
- Repeat with Additional Cards
- Mentors continue drawing cards and repeat steps 2-5 for each new scenario. This process allows them to build a mental library of approaches for diverse cultural interactions.
- By working through various scenarios, mentors become more versatile and open-minded about communication.
Conclusion/Outcome
By following these steps, mentors develop a thoughtful approach to cultural sensitivity in mentoring. This exercise encourages them to consider diverse perspectives and build a set of adaptable strategies for fostering an inclusive and understanding environment in mentoring relationships.
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