This course seeks to introduce students to the concept of intercultural communication in order to understand the role of effective communication in tourism, the importance of cultural differences in human interaction both in the workplace and in the social environment in general (differences in clothing level , in matters of religion, values and customs). It also aims to help students develop basic communication skills (verbal and non-verbal) in an intercultural context and to understand the cultural differences of international visitors and foreign workers, thus contributing to the more effective promotion and management of the tourism product. At the same time, intercultural communication is very important for the growth of tourism, as it allows respect for diversity, diversity and opens the door to millions of people with different perceptions and culture.

Upon the successful completion of the course, students are expected to have acquired and developed:

• Knowledge to be able to: (a) understand concepts such as multiculturalism, interculturalism, acculturation, assimilation, integration, homogeneity, pluralism, stereotypes, discrimination, racism, etc. (b) understand the relationship between culture and communication, (c) know the basic theories about intercultural communication, (d) identify the factors that influence intercultural communication and compare the communication behavior, verbal and non-verbal of different cultural groups and interpreting behavior through culture.

• Skills to be able to (a) communicate effectively (verbally and non-verbally) in an intercultural context , (b) understand the cultural differences of international visitors and foreign employees and to contribute by manage and promote tourism product effectively.

• Abilities to be able to (a) behave comfortably in intercultural communication environments, (b) utilize cultural diversity as an opportunity and ideal field for creative interaction, and (c) to demonstrate adaptability and responsibility as effective speakers in various cultural frames.

1^st Week

Introductory concepts – Conceptual clarification of key terms

2^nd Week

The multi-prismatic nature of communication, models of communication and contemporary issues regarding the view of communication

3^rd Week

A retrospective of culture

4^th Week

The influence of culture on our perception and the stages of the perceptual process

5^th Week

Cultural and value orientations

6^th Week

Social categorization, sub-groups and identities

7^th Week

Verbal communication and culture

8^th Week

Non verbal communication and culture

9^th Week

Developing relationships with other cultures

10^th Week

Manage intercultural differences

11^th Week

Mass media, technology and cultural change

12^th Week

Developing effective intercultural communicative competence

13^th Week

Diversity and multiculturalism

• Liu, S., Volcic ,Ζ., Gallois, C., Aravaniti, Introduction to intercultural communication. Global cultures. Athens: Gutenberg.
• Ioannis D. Karras, The Culture and Communication Interface, Athens: DIAVLOS S.A.., 2020.

Lectures, with active involvement and participation of students:

-Questions-Answers

-Presentation and Discussion of Case Studies

-Discussion

-Inviting expert guests to encourage student discussion and critical thinking

Use of ICT in Teaching: Electronic Classroom Management System (Open eClass), Powerpoint slides, lecture notes in pdf, spreadsheets, appropriate statistical software.

Use of ICT in Communication: Communication with students is achieved through the use of the Electronic Classroom Management System (Open eClass) and e-mail.

Written final examination, of graded difficulty, which may include:

• Multiple-choice questions.
• Short Answer Questions
• Problem solving/exercises

The individual assessment grades  are indicated next to each topic.

Interim assessments (progress tests) may be given. Their details (examination format, date, time, subject matter, weighting coefficient, etc.) are announced in good time. Interim assessments do not exempt the student from the final examination.

The course calendar, the assessment criteria and weightings will be made known to students at the start of the course. Instructor reserves the right to adjust the pace to accommodate class progress. Students are responsible for keeping up with all adjustments to the course calendar.