What is COMMUNICATION? It is passing on or exchanging information. We are constantly communicating in one way or another. We communicate through our words, gestures and actions. When we fail to convey the right message is when MISCOMMUNICATION occurs. This can happen due to cultural differences and a lack of understanding each other's background.
Professor Ivers gives several example on miscommunication among different cultures. He said that what may seem appropriate for some people it may not be for others. Never assume your expressions will mean the same to others and vice versa, never interpret other's expressions as your own.
I grew up listening to my parents saying "a la tierra que fueres, haz lo que vieres" meaning "when in Rome, do as the Romans do". As a kid I would often sarcastically respond like "so if I see them smoking or swearing I should to". Now, I know better and that is not what it means. What my parents were trying to teach me is that wherever I went I should try to learn their language, their concepts and their stories so that I would be able to understand them better and do the same so that they would understand me.
One costume I remember learning when I first came to the USA was removing my shoes when you go to peoples home. In Mexico, we do not practice this custom because often the home floors is just dirt or tile so you keep your shoes on. Here in USA is different because most homes are carpeted and it would ruin the carpet to walk on it with dirty shoes. I remember feeling weird having my feet bare or showing my socks but now it is just normal.
As we strive to learn from our differences and to understand our backgrounds we will be able to avoid miscommunication and to communicate more effectively as a society.
I really love the image you chose for this week, it represents what we are learning. Well done with your post!
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