Explaining the three merits and points for enjoying cross-cultural exchange
Cross-cultural exchange is a term that refers to communication with people from other cultures. By actively engaging in cross-cultural exchange, you may be able to live a rich life by creating new awareness and values.
In this article, we will explain cross-cultural exchange in an easy-to-understand manner. We will also introduce the three benefits of cross-cultural exchange and points for more enjoyment, so please refer to them.
Communication with people from other cultures
As mentioned at the beginning, cross-cultural exchange is about interacting with foreigners and learning about the cultures of other countries. Also known as “intercultural communication”.
The important thing in cross-cultural exchange is to "recognize the difference". Taking Japan and India as an example, in Japan we use tableware such as chopsticks and spoons when we eat. Many people take this for granted, but in India it is normal to eat with your right hand.
It is important to recognize and understand the existence of a culture different from ourselves in cross-cultural exchange. If you think that such a culture is unbelievable, it will be difficult to deeply understand each other with people from other cultures.
In addition, cross-cultural exchange can be said to be necessary communication for society in the future. As many companies expand overseas, there is a strong demand for understanding of different cultures in business.
More places to experience and learn about cross-cultural exchange
Cross-cultural exchange is regarded as important in the world, but there are more and more places to experience and learn about cross-cultural exchange in Japan.
For example, Waseda University has a cross-cultural exchange centre, and Chuo University has a cross-cultural exchange lounge on campus to hold exchange events with international students who have come to Japan. Rikkyo University also has a Faculty of Cultural Communication. In this way, it is possible to experience and learn about cross-cultural exchange at many universities.
Outside of university, various types of cross-cultural exchange events such as seminars, parties, English conversation bars, and cafes are held all over Japan.
Three benefits of cross-cultural exchange
1.Learn a foreign language
In cross-cultural exchange, you have to communicate with people from other countries, so you will have more opportunities to speak foreign languages such as English. Some people are learning a foreign language on their own, but you should be able to learn a lot by actually talking to foreigners and listening to native languages.
For those who want to learn a foreign language, a place for cross-cultural exchange is an opportunity to grow themselves.
2.Understand the different cultures and values of each country
By cross-cultural exchange, you will be able to come into contact with different cultures and common sense from Japan and recognize the differences. Many people change their values when they become aware of the differences from other countries. It is not uncommon for Japanese common sense to be insane in foreign countries.
If you realise that such "natural things in Japan" are "not natural", you will have the power to recognize diversity. It should be a great weapon in a society where diversity is accelerating.
3.It will be an opportunity to look back on your own country and yourself
Cross-cultural exchanges increase the number of times foreigners ask questions about Japan, so you need to know more about Japan. For example, when asked about tourist attractions in Japan, it would be nice to have knowledge of not only famous places but also “minor but want to see”.
You may also be asked by foreigners about yourself. By increasing these opportunities, you will be able to deepen your understanding of yourself and your country.
Three points to enjoy cross-cultural exchange more
Finally, I would like to introduce three points for enjoying cross-cultural exchange. By holding down these, you can enjoy cross-cultural exchange while avoiding troubles. Please try it.
1.In addition to improving language skills, be conscious of positiveness
In order to enjoy cross-cultural exchange, it is important to actively communicate with the other person in addition to making efforts to improve language skills. Even if your language skills are immature, if you are interested in the other person and have an attitude to understand different cultures, it will be conveyed to the other person.
The willingness to learn about different cultures beyond language deepens exchanges.
2.It is necessary to understand foreigners with different manners and lifestyles
As mentioned at the beginning, it is important to recognize the difference in cross-cultural exchange.
Since the manners, lifestyles, and thinking circuits differ from country to country, some people who have experienced cross-cultural exchange may realise that they are "far from the common sense of Japan." However, this is an impression from the Japanese side. Sometimes the other person feels that they don't understand Japanese culture.
The secret to enjoying cross-cultural exchange is to recognize the diversity of the other person and tolerate the values as much as possible, no matter how difficult the manners and lifestyles are.
3.Don't get caught up in historical and political knowledge and stereotypes
Interacting with people from different countries may also give you the opportunity to interact with people from countries where Japan is in political conflict. The important thing here is to recognize the other person as a person without being bound by history, political knowledge or stereotypes.
No matter how politically conflicting nations are, there is no conflict between you and your partner. To avoid trouble, be aware of knowing, understanding, and respecting the other person. And try to be friendly with the other person without prejudice.
summary
In this article, I explained the outline of cross-cultural exchange, the three merits of cross-cultural exchange, and the points to enjoy.
The new awareness and values gained through cross-cultural exchange should help us lead a prosperous life. There are more places to experience and learn about cross-cultural exchanges in Japan, so please come visit us.
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