Intercultural Competence 500 words – Report

Intercultural Competence 500 words – Report.

Discuss 1 or 2 specific cultural practices or an aspect of the cultural heritage of the host country. Explain what makes it an important aspect of the cultural life of the host country.

-Catalan language

As in MJ Bennett's model on the stages of integration into a foreign culture, I personally experienced his definition of stage two, defensiveness. I experienced negative feelings towards the language of Catalan as this made me feel an outsider. Over time I learn to accept and recognise the importance of Catalan for the local community although I disagree with the lack of Spanish in schools

In many ways this is not dissimilar to the fight for the Welsh language all over Wales.

This language barrier did instil some negative feelings but as I couldn't change my situation. Embracing and accepting it was a better approach