When people with different cultural backgrounds work together, differing expectations and ways of communicating can lead to misunderstandings and conflict. With the right tools, such situations can also open the door to learning, better dialogue and greater understanding.
The course Intercultural Mediation in Higher Education: Transforming Conflict into Opportunity in Diverse Academic Environments gives you practical skills to prevent and manage conflict in an international university setting.
Relevant for both academic and administrative staff
The offer is for those who work in international or culturally diverse environments, for example in teaching, guidance, coordination or project management.
Through short academic introductions, group discussions, reflection exercises and role play, you will explore how culture, identity and your own assumptions affect communication and collaboration.
You will, among other things, practise how to:
- recognise cultural influences on communication and conflict management
- analyse conflicts and understand different perspectives
- use active listening, good questions and mediation techniques
- facilitate dialogue between people with different cultural backgrounds
- turn conflict into opportunities for learning and development.
Practical training and exchange of experience
The course is led by experts in intercultural communication and mediation. With a group of 15-20 participants, there is plenty of room for active participation and exchange of experience with colleagues from the EDUC universities.
You will develop a personal action plan for intercultural mediation and leave with a toolkit of methods, communication strategies and examples you can use in your own work.
The programme also includes a city walk, a tour of the campus and a joint dinner.
Practical information
- Time: 15-20 March 2027, 09.00-17.00 every day for six days, including Saturday
- Place: University of Potsdam, Germany (in-person participation)
- Target group: Administrative and academic staff at the EDUC universities
- Language requirement: English at minimum B2 level
- Course fee: EUR 900 per person*
- Preparation: A short self-assessment and reading material before the start of the course
- Assessment: Written exam online
*It may be possible to receive support for participation through Erasmus+ staff mobility for training. Read more at min.usn.no: Erasmus+ training/teaching mobility - USN Intranet
Would you like to strengthen your competence in intercultural collaboration? Read more about the course and how to apply in the EDUC catalogue: Intercultural Mediation in Higher Education: Transforming Conflict into Opportunity in Diverse Academic Environments (catalogue.educalliance.eu)
