Reflecting on all the places he’s traveled for school, work, or fun, Tzu-Chiao Chen has been acutely aware of what people are seeking when they’re communicating: a connection.
“Intercultural competence does not mean memorizing a list of cultural rules. It means developing curiosity, adaptability, empathy, and the ability to tolerate uncertainty. Those qualities allow us to communicate with people as individuals while still being aware of the cultural experiences that may shape them,” said Chen, an associate professor in communication studies.
Learning why and how to find common ground amidst differences is what drove him to teach the course Culture and Communication (COM 133) for undergraduates which launched in 2024.
In Taiwan where he was born, Chen grew up accustomed to people communicating indirectly and maintaining harmony was easier than saying “no.” Caring for each other was reflected not through words, but through actions, like exchanging food.
In Kuwait, where he taught, Chen observed Kuwaitis value getting to know another person before any business dealings advance. Gaining trust is paramount in the country’s task-oriented culture, he said.
In Alaska, Chen observed people had a strong sense of self-reliance. Their inclination toward privacy and personal space wasn’t meant to be perceived as unfriendly.
“Something that appears rude, inefficient, passive, or unusual from one cultural perspective may express respect, hospitality, independence, or consideration in another,” said Chen, an associate professor in communication studies. “Living in different places taught me to pause before judging someone’s behavior. I try to ask, ‘What might this behavior mean within their cultural context?’”
The Course
In Culture and Communication (COM 133), students learn why it’s important to appreciate and respect differences, and how identity and culture influence communication styles. Students become aware of their personal and cultural biases and its effect on how they view and treat others.
The class addresses sexual orientation, intersectionality, socioeconomic status, race, gender, disability, religion, politics and ethnicity.
Through interactive activities and discussions, students are encouraged to respect and recognize the myriad experiences and cultural experiences that shape individuals.
“The most important part of my teaching philosophy is about being empathetic and then finding a common ground,” Chen said.
Who’s taking it?
Culture and Communication satisfies UNLV’s multicultural general education requirement. There are no prerequisites, and it is open to all undergraduate majors.
How does this course connect to students’ future careers?
“This class matters because cultural differences are part of everyday life,” said Chen. “They affect our workplaces, friendships, families, classrooms, media, and communities.”
He points out that many conflicts arise because the same behavior can be interpreted differently. For students in diverse environments like UNLV — or Las Vegas in general — the question is not whether they will encounter cultural differences, but if they can respond constructively.
Chen said, “Ultimately, the class helps students become more thoughtful communicators, coworkers, community members, and citizens.”
How does it work?
The class is built on in-class discussions, readings, group projects and presentations. The last assignment is a group project that requires students to analyze a film, pinpoint the various identities they recognize, and how those identities impact the characters’ experiences.
During recent class visits, students discussed political messaging, workplace tensions, cultural stereotypes, and racism. Participation in this class is important. Talking to those who are different from themselves requires practice, Chen said.
“I'm trying to create an environment where students can feel comfortable in sharing their ideas, and their thoughts. They will not be judged or criticized because of those differences,” Chen said.
