One of my favorite bands from my youth was The Moody Blues (still is). They were the champions of “concept albums” - collections of songs, poetry, and instrumental pieces that told a story or addressed an idea through music. The relevant quote that comes to mind is taken from their album “In Search of the Lost Chord” from 1968.

“Thinking is the best way to travel.”

In our constantly evolving world and innovative societies, it can be hard to keep up with how different diverse cultures and peoples are becoming more and more intertwined. Globalization has increased greatly over the past ten to twenty years, mostly thanks to international business growth rates, online/technological advancements and product development outsourcing to other countries. 

When we think of creating educational environments for every student to thrive, what is usually the first thing that comes to mind? Schools that include an engaging curriculum. Classrooms that cultivate joy. Buildings that are lively and welcoming that offer a multitude of extracurricular activities and opportunities for students to explore the world through texts or field lessons outside of the classroom?

One of the best things about reading memoir is the opportunity to discover and learn from life stories. How would we act in a similar situation? What can we take away when learning from these lives? 

Such is the case with an extraordinary new memoir by author Jill Kandel (whom our wandering educators will remember from our interview with her about her book So Many Africas: Six Years in a Zambian Village).

Featuring first-person stories of people finding themselves in the middle of a culture that is foreign to them; each week, 22.33 will deliver interesting tales from people who share how they were able to create mutual understanding through cultural exchange. 

Taking a semester to travel and study abroad can be a challenging but positive experience for students. The benefits can include anything from enhancing your network to increasing your employment opportunities.

Preparing for a Semester Abroad

The Intercultural Competence Conference is organized by the Center for Educational Resources in Culture, Language and Literacy (CERCLL) at the University of Arizona. It will take place January 27-30, 2022 in Tucson, Arizona, and online.

Proposal Submission Deadline: June 4, 2021, 11:59 pm (PST).

Featuring first-person stories of people finding themselves in the middle of a culture that is foreign to them; each week, 22.33 will deliver interesting tales from people who share how they were able to create mutual understanding through cultural exchange. 

Are you conversant with western cultures but seeking opportunities in China? One of the things you should know is that there are profound cultural differences between the U.S and China.

Here is your guide to intercultural success in doing business in China.