Frequently Asked Questions about Comm/ICS 7 - Intercultural Communication

Q: I noticed this course is cross registered with Comm 7.  What does that mean?
A:
 ICS 07 and Comm 07 are the same course: Intercultural Communication. You can sign up for either one, depending on what type of credits you need, but you can't take ICS 07 and then Comm 07 and receive credit twice, because it's the same course.

Q: Will I have to give a lot of speeches?
A: Each student will give two short, informal presentations which you will have the option of presenting with a student partner.  The presentations typically include skits and class participation. The emphasis is on content, and we will not study public speaking techniques, but you should practice ahead of time, speak clearly, and finish within the time limit.

Q: Will there be a lot of reading?
A. Students will be assigned text chapters throughout the quarter. Typically  you will be reading approximately 50 pages every two weeks.

Q: I'm a Nursing student. Do you provide information about intercultural communication in the Health Care field?
A:
Yes, information on communication in the health care context will be provided as requested. In addition, all students will practice speaking to someone who is just learning English, as well as understanding cultural differences in listening and clarifying skills. The ability to communicate effectively with English language learners is especially critical for health care providers.

Q: I'm still learning English (it's my second language). Will I be able to do well in this class?
A:
 I have been an ESL teacher for over 20 years so I have a good sense of what your challenges may be. The readings are college level and fluent students may speak quickly, so if there's something you don't understand, asking questions in class will really help you do well. Your questions will also help more fluent speakers build empathy for English language learners. There is often time during the class meetings to check with fellow students, or with me, if you have questions, and I am easily reached online and will have office hours before class. A majority of the International Students who have taken this course have earned high grades. However, only you can decide whether you understand the class discussions, the online discussions and the readings well enough to earn a good grade.

Q. What do we need to do before the first class meeting?
A. There is no required work to be done before the first on-campus meeting. A week before the Fall quarter starts, I will contact all registered students with information about accessing the textbook (check with the Bookstore before then if you want to buy your books early). Online access (e-copy rental) of textbook may also be available.

Q:  Can I contact you with questions?
A. If you have other questions about the course, please feel free to E-mail me at mcnultypiper@deanza.edu.

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