WEEK 2: Mini Writing Assignment on Reflexivity

Since we are dealing with culturally sensitive subject matter and/or an populations that many/some of you may not be personally familiar with, understanding that there are different ways of structuring and conveying knowledge is very important. In this module we ask you to reflect on your understanding of different worldviews and how they connect to your own perception of the world around you. Please consider the definition below:

DIRECTIONS: Please write a 1-3 page reflexive paper (250 word minimum) addressing the prompts below. You are free to write in either question and answer or research paper format for this assignment. Remember to tie in what you have learned from WEEK 1 and WEEK 2 to receive full credit. Refer back to the Module Grading Rubric for Discussion Forums if you need additional guidance (click here).

STEP ONE: REFLEXIVITY - Answer the following two questions:

• 1. Explain how you would describe your "first contact" with someone from another country? This can include contact through personal communication, online gaming, email/apps, by phone, in person, or through some other exchange. What was involved in this exchange, what language(s) did you use, and did you encounter any cultural similarities and differences between your cultures?

  2. People in and out of a particular country can practice a variety of religious beliefs, speak different languages, have different local and regional customs, but also share common elements of culture. In a module like this one it is important to recognize that each person can feel strongly about their own worldviews and perspectives, but they can differ dramatically from person to person. This can be true within and across the US and Lebanon as well as many other countries. In light of your "first contact," do you think learning cultural competencies can be easier or harder in a digital environment with diverse worldviews? Do you think that being cultural competent is important in a diverse, international learning environment? Why or why not? (HINT: When answering these questions, try and step outside of your own worldview and pretend you come from a different culture that speaks a different language, has different religious beliefs, wears different clothing, has different understandings of digital tools and their importance, or some other cultural concept foreign to you. How would you feel learning in this environment? What might using cultural competencies help you better engage with diverse students and work in this module?)

Please answer these questions before you move to Step Two since it will help you reflect on how your own worldview and beliefs are structured. Then move to Step Two.

STEP TWO: CRITICAL THINKING: