Skip to main content
COMM301

Week 6: Culture, Context, Power & Inclusion

Week 6 Summary

Week Summary

This week, we explored how cultural dimensions shape communication patterns and how power dynamics influence our interpersonal interactions. We learned to recognize microaggressions and their cumulative impact, and we practiced inclusive communication strategies that respect and welcome all people.

Key Takeaways

  • 1High-context cultures rely on implicit meaning; low-context cultures prefer explicit, direct communication
  • 2Individualist and collectivist orientations shape how we balance personal and group needs in communication
  • 3Power flows from multiple sources and always affects communication dynamics
  • 4Microaggressions are subtle but harmful; the impact is cumulative over time
  • 5Inclusive communication requires ongoing self-awareness, humility, and commitment to learning

Coming Up Next Week

Next week, we'll focus on listening and questioning skills - the receptive side of communication. We'll explore different listening styles, barriers to effective listening, and techniques for asking better questions.