iCommunicate
Advancing the meaningful exchange, understanding, and respect amongst members of Penn’s vibrant community through intercultural trainings.
About iCommunicate
iCommunicate advances the meaningful exchange, understanding, and respect amongst members of the diverse Penn community through intercultural trainings and inclusive programming.
What are the benefits of iCommunicate?
Through the iCommunicate trainings, you will:
- Explore the nuance and subtlety that may arise in conversations between individuals from different backgrounds
- Establish a baseline of differing cultural norms, behaviors, and customs that will prepare you to be a positive global citizen
- Improve your services or interactions by being more empathetic
- Go beyond your comfort zone and see the world through a different lens
- Enhance communication between you and your colleagues, friends, or group
- Develop important cultural competencies
Request an iCommunicate Training Today
Request a training today by contacting Rudie Altamirano, Executive Director for International Student and Scholar Services.
A Sneak Peak into iCommunicate
Curious about what iCommunicate has to offer? Watch the trailer for a glimpse into the program and discover how our intercultural trainings can enhance your interactions with Penn’s vibrant community.
iCommunicate Trainings
iCommunicate consists of three tracks, covering the influence of home culture, different communication styles, and the importance and impact of intercultural communication.
All Penn students, scholars, faculty and staff are welcome to participate in one or all three tracks of iCommunicate trainings. Begin by reviewing the descriptions of each track and then submit your request for a training for your group, office, or department.
Explore the Tracks
Track 1
The World of Intercultural Communication
Intercultural communication plays an important role in Penn’s vibrant community of people from all over the world and all walks of life. Whether it’s in the classroom, in the office, socially or professionally, communication across cultures can be a source of conflict but can also be a window to another point of view.
Session Goals
- Gain an understanding of cultural factors that are involved in interactions
- Gain an understanding of ideas of low and high context communication
- Enhance relationships with others, particularly in a global context
Track 2
Facts that Impact Intercultural Communication
There are many facets of life that have an impact on how we communicate with others. Your home culture – whether it be a country, region, or down to the scope of your family – all influence how we communicate and can impact your relationships with others. Life experiences and identities also differ from one person to the next.
Session Goals
- Grow your awareness of facts that impact intercultural communication
- Help you become a more effective communicator
- Support our shared goal to create a safe and welcoming environment at Penn
Track 3
How I Communicate: Understanding Communication Styles
Are you a direct or indirect communicator? Do you take a more attached or detached approach? There are many ways to communicate and sometimes different styles can intersect and clash.
Session Goals:
- Learn different communication styles
- Analyze scenarios where different communication styles are in play
Real People, Real Impact
Hear from your Penn colleagues about the importance and impact of iCommunicate trainings.