taught in Englisch in winter term 2018 at Freie-Universität Berlin
Content
Social categories such as “gender”, “social class”, “ethnicity” or “religion” play a major role in organizations and societies. They are based on a historically and culturally produced order and are associated with stereotyping and hierarchization. It is important to understand these socio-cultural classification processes and their effects in order to gain knowledge about discrimination processes and to reduce discrimination. This course considers the concepts of gender and diversity and the tensions between them, especially in international contexts. The reflection on one’s own values, modes of action and communication styles as well as reflection on the Eurocentric perspective forms the basis for discussion skills, team skills, moderation skills and leadership skills in intercultural and international contexts. It is a prerequisite for professional activities in companies and organizations worldwide. In an awareness training, the students are sensitized to dealing with stereotyping and ascribed social differences. They learn to reflect personal attitudes and values. In particular, they learn to recognize and reflect on racist judgements. They can also reflect upon the perspective from which they speak in international contexts and thus learn how to deal professionally with diversity in complex situations in international contexts.