Language can be defined as a system of communication. It encompasses verbal expressions and non verbal expressions such as facial gestures, body movement and signs.
Verbal communication is not just about “what you said, it is how you said it” as Jonas Blue and Arlissa brought out in their song “hearts aint gonna lie”. This brings out the fact that the tone or the volume of what is being communicated in any language is of vital importance. Shouting or speaking in a low tone can make a difference in any statement said in any language.
A classic example of a…
When friends and family who opted to pursue their education journey or relocated aboard come back home for summer break, holidays and vacations, it is quite evident to notice a difference in how they speak, their mannerism and irritability to some stuff.
Living aboard or living in a totally new environment and culture most definitely influences us in many ways. From how we speak, to our beliefs, to our behaviors, to our world view to the extent that adaption becomes our way of life. It is as if one undergoes a total cultural shift and is assimilated into different and…
Are culture and identity two separate entities or are the two words one and the same thing?
Culture is who we are, our habits and our idea of living. Judith N. Martin and Thomas K. Nakayama’s book, Intercultural Communication in Contexts (Judith N. Martin, 2010), highlights the self-imperative aspect that encourages one to be more aware of themselves. From abilities, to traits, to talents, to how we identify and feel about certain situations among others that foster a sense of identity.
Beyond the personal aspect, it is recommended for one to get to know where one comes from, one’s cultural…
What is culture, one may ask. What really entails culture? How does one practice cultural awareness? Why is there the need to understand and practice culture? So many questions begging for answers!
According to Geert Hofstede, a Dutch profound scholar devoted to demystify culture in terms of dimensions (Hofstede, 2013), the concept of culture can be defined through institutions such as rites of passage, taboos, religious practices among others as well as artefacts that evidently explain the meaning of life. I would define culture as habit or a lifestyle that you and I choose to live by on a day…
