Eye contact
Eye contact is something that is of great value in American culture. It symbolizes respect and leadership qualities, but when used in other cultures such as Eastern cultures it can be misinterpreted as disrespectful. Just food for thought
Hi Robert!
Since I have been facilitating these CE courses, I have become much more cognizant of what an instructor/facilitator must know about human nature, cultural differences, learning disabilities, group dynamics, color use and music in the classroom, reading challenged students, etc., etc., etc. And gues what - we have to know and forever learn about the subject we help students learn. What an awesome job we have and the contributions we make to students who otherwise may not be successful! And - somehow we make it all work for the most positive outcomes.
To each of you - keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
True, but sometimes it IS just introversion. We need to also be careful about attributing all behaviours to cultural dynamics.
I have worked with a Vietnamese chef who, when he first started didn't make eye contact and would not discipline. It took awhile before he became comfortable with it. I know it's not politically correct but I think when someone comes to this country they need to learn and follow our customs, not expect us to learn theirs. He knew that and does well.
