Workforce Equity and Inclusive Leadership Cross-Cultural Communication and Conflict

Register here! (3 session course)

The cultures we have been immersed in not only play important roles in establishing our identities, but also impact how we convey information, interpret messages in our interactions, and shape our approaches to dealing with conflict. Unpacking our cultures and their impacts, as well as those of others, can help us better understand instances of miscommunication and conflict, and establish practices that help us become better communicators across difference. By participating in this two-part workshop, staff and faculty will better understand connections between culture, communication styles, and conflict styles, and learn some approaches to enhance communication in their personal and professional lives.

In parts one and two, participants focus on better understanding their cultures and how they influence communication within and across cultures. In part three, participants explore the connection between culture and conflict, examining the different approaches to conflict. Throughout the series, participants will connect their culture and communication/conflict approach to the Amherst community and learn some strategies to help in their personal and professional interactions.

In the workshops, participants will:

1. Learn theories related to how culture shapes how we approach communication and conflict;
2. Reflect on their culture and cultural practices and how those influence their communication and conflict styles;
3.  Analyze examples of miscommunication and conflict in our personal and professional interactions;
4. Brainstorm strategies for navigating miscommunication and conflict.

This workshop is co-facilitated by the Center for Restorative Practices and the Office of Workforce Equity and Inclusive Leadership and is open to all staff and faculty.

Co-Facilitators:

Fabio Ayala, Assistant Director of Center for Restorative Practices, Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Suzanne Belleci, Director of the Center for Restorative Practices, Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Raquel (Rocky) Wood, Assistant Director of Inclusive Leadership, Office of Diversity and Inclusion