You teach us-People & Cultures

 I was sitting in a bar and the Korean song, Gangnam style started playing. People immediately started dancing and copying the dance move of South Korean pop artist PSY. It made me think of how a video going viral brings an entire nation into greater focus. There is so much more about the world that we can understand if we try to understand people from different cultures. Be more involved than just ‘Gangnam’ style.

When I filled out my application for the MBA program, I wrote how an international class would be a cultural learning for me.  I am not entirely sure how much effort I have invested to really learn about the different countries, cultures and people I take my classes with.

So I thought of doing my presentation on Brazil, a country I visited in spring and believe to have experienced it in a slightly deeper way. I looked up some interesting facts about Brazil and I was glad to know that I could speak about them with some authority or understand some of the underlying reasons. I have attached the slide deck for quick reference.

At the end of the presentation, I tried to get the group to talk about their cultural experiences. We tried to look at the similarities and the differences of the cultures that we come from.  I feel this dialogue is important for us not just to be aware of global events but even to understand the world and the people around us in a better way. Every culture has something new and enriching to offer and we need to be curious to learn and creative in applying it.

Learning Objectives: 

1. How can we make an attempt to learn about people and cultures?

2. Why is it important to learn about different cultures?

3. How does cultural learning enhance our creativity?

Being receptive, observant and appreciative people and cultures can enrich our lives in a unique ways. Be open and accepting!