Cross Cultural Psychology in Spain, Morocco and Portugal

The experience gained from Cross-cultural psychology studies through tours enriches

degree programs by taking into account the effect of culture and how it impacts nations and

countries. Cross cultural experiences are actually encounters of the intercultural kind that

challenge the stereotypes, it helps understand cross cultural dilemmas and conflicts and

ultimately gives insight into some possible solutions to such dilemmas. It helps us find an answer

to the question that all people being so similar why there are so much differences in traditions,

culture, behavior and lifestyle.

By understanding the cross cultural psychology obtained through this academic tour of

Spain, Morocco and Portugal, the participant is able to help enhance the learning environment of

home campus by making others explore and appreciate the cultural impacts which goes beyond

their own notions. By giving one's own idea of international perspective, of universal essence,

one is competent enough to discuss the ways through which we can find the universal essence in

humanity whilst seeing the other differences, it also help others understand that cross cultural

psychology study tours are crucial to the understanding of the human race as a whole.

It is the understanding of cross cultural psychology gained through academic tours that

motivates us explore topics across cultures. It helps, students, teachers and educators appreciate

cultural impacts by going beyond the limitations of one’s own constructions of ‘right’ and

‘good,’ and exploring others’ constructions of these notions, seems to be the key to such

flourishing.

As I wish to pursue my career as a communicator, hence the 'live experience' of a direct

engagement with the people of the host country will give more authenticity to my knowledge of

cultural values and life style of the country. When one is free of many misconceptions and

preconceived images, all the misconceptions are redressed by gaining real insights into the social

and cultural diversity of the country in ways that were distinct from, and superior to, the abstract,

intellectualized perspectives available through more formal learning. This unique experience can

be applied to my own career and profession. There are many great cultural aspects that is learnt

when one travels to other countries. As a consequence, many who return from the study tour turn

more conscious of the inadequacy of generalizations that occlude important cultural nuances and

differences, and considerably more cautious about making simplistic generalizations about other

people in the world.

Each one amongst the participant of this cross cultural psychology tour is expected to

face some unique confronting process, it would challenge the perceived conceptions and

assumptions about the host countries as well as about their own identities as educated persons

and professionals. These experiences may entail unsetting engagements with the local culture as

it challenges any personal assumptions they might face with different social and cultural norms.

The study tour will be like a transformative experience that can generate intense and passionate

commitment to studies of other countries and to the further development of one's own learning.