Cultural Differences

BrainMass community is a microcosm of the greater society we live in. Therefore, one can expect that both the student and Online TAs will be drawn from different and diverse cultures, classes and creeds. Such is the diverse nature of our community.

BrainMass respects the diverse backgrounds of its community members. We are presented with an unprecedented opportunity for tapping into the diversity of students and teachers, as well as a challenge to overcome some of the barriers we face working across and between languages and cultures. We aim to manage the learning process of our students in a constructive way and deliver innovative services in a cost-effective and accessible manner.

Now that we understand that culture plays an important role in regards to online academic communication, does working across cultures and countries easier (as there is no visual contact) or harder (do we miss any sensitive issues)?

Online TAs may observe cultural form from an 'international' student by the style and content of, for example, an email text. This form may be indicated by the:

• choice of words,
• degree of formality of writing,
• amount of willingness to take risks by sharing ideas or comments.

What are not always immediately clear to the reader are the cultural meanings that the participant wishes to convey in the message. We recommend the Online TAs develop an intercultural online writing style (this is particularly important for Humanities students) by following some simple rules:

• Simple sentences.
• Active modes of verbs and sentences.
• Explicitly define vocabulary.
• Regular use of questions and tag questions.

Following are some more tips for communicating with non-native speakers of English:

• Use uncomplicated language and clear explanations.
• Write clearly and avoid slang and idioms.
• Summarize what each person has written to assure each that you have understood.
• Clarify and confirm that your explanation has helped the participant understand.
• Check for understanding, avoiding 'Yes/No' questions.

Adapted from Myers and Filner (1999) 'Mediation Across Cultures' available online at http://www.amedpub.com/worklife2k/divconflict.html