David Oglesby & Karen Sacre

Defense Language Institute

English Language Center

Transcending Transcending Cultural DifferencesCultural Differences

Lexicon (vocabulary)

Syntax (grammar)

Segmental Phonemes (individual sounds)

Suprasegmental phonemes (stress, intonation, plus juncture)

Paralanguage (kinesics, proxemics)

Culture Is Evident in…

Lexicon NW Canada: 13 terms for snow

Nigeria: 3 basic colors + B/W

Syntax

Exclusive/Inclusive “We”

Formal/Informal “You”

Phonology

Tones dependent on addressee

Examples

DLIELC’s Dual Challenge

Familiarization with American Culture

Cross-Cultural Awareness

American Culture

Field Studies Program for all studentsCultural Notes in the ALCSpecific lessons/ modules for international instructor courses

Any Given Day…

70-80 countries

on campus

6-10 countries in a class

Potential for …

For DLIELC Teachers

Pre-Service Training (PST)

In-Service Training (IST)

Pre-Deployment

For DLIELC Students

Cross-Cultural Awareness

Please write your full name.

How long did it take you?

How much conscious thought did you put in to it?

What adjectives would you use to describe the experience?

Now do exactly the same task again . . .

How long did it take you?

How much conscious thought did you put in to it?

What adjectives would you use to describe the experience?

but with the other hand . . .

and please write backwards.

Demographics 38% of ESL-related employees have chosen

spouses from 33 cultures

Pre-Service Training - Theories Universalism versus particularism

Neutral versus emotional

Achievement versus ascription

Tolerance of ambiguity

High vs Low Context

Pre-Service Training - Scenarios

DLIELC Teachers

Conversational Styles

Bowling

Basketball

Rugby

Developed by Susan Steinbach

Fluent American English video “Conversational Style in the

USA” Steps 1 - 12

In-Service Training

Appreciation and respect for other cultures

Multi-Cultural Classes

For DLIELC Students

New Student Briefing

Monday Morning Briefing

Specialized English Courses

International Instructor Training

Cross-Cultural Awareness

1. Respect your fellow students.2. Be polite; say “Please” & “Thank you”.3. Call people by their rank/title & last name.4. Be open-minded towards others’ opinions.5. Ask relevant questions.6. Pay attention to classmates.7. Assist others.8. Give instructors your full attention. 9. Always speak English.10.Arrive on time to class.

PunctualityShowing esteem for other people and

their time.Be at the right place at the right time.

Prepare for unexpected delays.

Do your work ahead of time.

Plan a daily schedule and stick to it.

Latecomers are reported.

15+ minutes is an absence!

That means in the classroom, not the hallway!

Aviate, Navigate, Communicate

Military Supply and Logistics

Specialized Academics Military Discussion Skills

Military Speaking/Writing Skills

Specialized Group Academics

Service specific modules

Specialized Classes

Composite Identity

= L1 (Arabic)

= Gender (Male)

= Education (University)

= Nationality (Saudi)

= Family (Eldest Son)

= Religion (Islam)

= L2 (English)

= Job (Pilot)

= Age (30s)

= Sociability (Outgoing)

Basic Instructor Course Integrated into Methodology

20 hours

INTRO to ALC Culture Seminar

110 hours (including tours)

Management Course Component

20 hours

International Instructors

Definition of Culture

Elements of Culture

Cultural Priorities / Values

Cultural Influences in Human Transactions

Cultural Factors in Language

Cultural Factors in Education and

Training

Cross-Cultural Topics

Topics of Interest / Taboos

Perceptions of Time

Styles of Negotiation

Attitude towards Individualism

Proxemics

Kinesics

Culture Shock

Facets of Interaction

Cultural Questionnaire

Written materials

Observation assignments

Videos /audio recordings

Teacher-led discussions on cross- cultural awareness

Student-led seminars on American

culture

Materials / Methodology

Native Americans / Immigrants

Geography / Exploration

Government / Political System

History / Economy / Jobs

Holidays / National Identity

Family / Education / Moral Codes

Arts / Sports / Recreation

Lifestyles / Environment / Health

American Culture Topics

DLIELC Vision Statement

A world-class language institute… Building bridges

through communication and peace through

understanding… Shaping tomorrow’s future

today.