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Activity 5 Topic 3

Title

Repa and Ambler

Duration

30 minutes

Expected learning outcomes

By the end of this activity, students will be able to:

 

  • Analyse the impact of cultural differences on intercultural communication

  • Recognise the obstacles created by stereotypes and prejudices in the encounters between different cultural or social backgrounds

Methodology

Role-play; intercultural learning

Required resources

Annex I. Repa and Ambler culture elements cards – provide as many cards as the participants

Annexes

Annex I. Repa and Ambler culture elements cards

Description

  • Explain that this is a unique chance to experience a different culture. 

  • Split participants into two random groups: they will become members of the Repa and Ambler cultures.

  • Provide participants with the cards below (Annex I.)

  • After the 2 groups read carefully the cards, explain: 

‘’Now you are in a 3rd country. Nor Repa, neither Ambler country. You have come here as tourists and you are now having a common party at the hotel lobby. It is time to get to know each other while you all keep the characteristics of your culture’’.

  • Give 5-7 minutes to participants to interact and then ask to the two groups to sit one opposite to the other. 

  • Now ask questions regarding the 2 cultures and invite them to describe the other.

  • A second round of interactions between the two groups follows and now participants have to apply what they have learned from the discussion.

  • During this second round of interaction, you will invite students to focus on their feelings. How do they feel now? 

 

Tips for Facilitators: 

  • Nurture curiosity and surprise: do not add any detail about the activity before the 1st round of interactions. In this way, participants will become aware of their stereotypical way of thinking.

  • Create a playful atmosphere: it will reduce participants’ hesitation in following the instructions.

  • Behave as an actor: you must act as an integral part of this imaginary meeting. This will stimulate students to undertake their roles in a more active way.

Relevant topics for discussion

  • How did you feel when….?

  • How would you describe the attitude of the other group? 

  • What did you assume about the other group?

  • Do you feel offended by what the other group told about you? 

  • Is there something you would like to explain to the other group to make them understand your reactions?

Original source

DICE Training Manual: https://cesie.org/en/resources/dice-training-manual/

Originally retrieved from: Ohio Commission on Dispute Resolution and Conflict Management, Ohio Department of Education, 2002

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