Countering Culture Shock

This project introduces the concept of intercultural training (ICT) and emphasises the importance of such programmes for the successful integration of those sojourning overseas. "Countering Culture Shock in a Globalised World", was specifically tailor-made for a small group of Egyptians who resided in England for three months in the summer of 2008. Its main objective was to arm them with skills enabling them to have a better understanding of the English culture and thus effectively integrate. This project also discusses the adverse effects highly evident in sojourners who do not undergo ICT programmes before they sojourn abroad, namely culture shock, ethnocentrism and stereotyping. As well as focusing on the training materials used for the programme, it looks at the distinctive cultural characteristics that make up Egyptians and marks these traits against theoretical cultural frameworks conceptualised by three pioneers in the intercultural field. It compares these traits to those of England's, an imperative comparison to make in order to design an appropriate agenda. Finally, it evaluates the training materials used and discusses the successes and obstacles encountered along the way. It is hoped that this project may serve as a good basis for which future ICT designs for similar clients can be built upon, adapted and developed.