1.
Culture is made up of...
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
No one argues that culture is easy to define, but that does not stop anthropologists, sociologists, scientists, and maybe even the town psychic from taking a crack at it. Most have come to an agreement that culture is multifaceted and consists of values, norms, traditions, etc. The renowned author, Selma Lagerlof, once mused that, “Culture is what remains when one has forgotten everything we had learned. ” What do you think of when you think of culture?
2.
What is not a common stereotype of Americans when they travel to other countries?
Correct Answer
B. They are quiet and meek.
Explanation
Unfortunately, our compatriots do not always represent the United States in the most positive light and the media can paint an unflattering picture as well. Whether it’s movies and TV programs like "American Pie" and "The Jersey Shore" or inconsiderate spring breakers, Americans are often seen as loud and obnoxious. The great thing about a negative stereotype is that there’s always the opportunity to replace it with a positive stereotype by being the considerate, compassionate people you are!
3.
Culture shock typically does not manifest in which of the following behaviors?
Correct Answer
A. Feeling well-rested and relaxed
Explanation
Sitting in an ex-pat cafe, you find yourself uncontrollably sobbing into your tea because you can't buy peanut butter at the local grocery store. Are you crazy? No, you are experiencing culture shock - and you aren't alone. Everyone who travels abroad experiences culture shock to varying degrees. Culture shock is caused by the stress of being in a new culture. It is a normal part of adjusting to new foods, customs, language, people and activities.
Adapted from: http://footprintsrecruiting.com/for-teachers/teachers-abroad/culture-shock
4.
What does the "honeymoon phase" refer to when adjusting to another culture?
Correct Answer
C. Being super excited and curious about the new culture you are in so that even small differences seem intriguing
Explanation
When arriving in another country for the first time, one often goes through different phases of adaptation. Typically in the beginning things seem shiny and new like noticing the beautiful colonial style architecture and feeling appreciative that waiters don’t hassle you for the check after a languorous meal. It varies how long this phase will last, but inevitably after a period of time not all of the differences in your new setting will seem as endearing as they once did. As they say, the honeymoon is over.
5.
Which one of these actions does not portray global sensitivity?
Correct Answer
B. Telling locals they "all look alike"
Explanation
The rule of thumb is to treat others as they would like to be treated. Imagine how you would feel if a guest from another country came to your house for dinner, didn’t want to try any of the food you had prepared and remarked that all Americans were the same. To become even more culturally fluent, challenge yourself not to treat others as you would like to be treated, but rather treat other as they would like to be treated. Common courtesy and taking initiative to learn a little about the hosting culture are a great first steps. So go on... take that first bite.
6.
A culturally competent person is someone who...
Correct Answer
A. Can interact with diverse audiences and convey ideas in a culturally sensitive matter.
Explanation
Although knowing the major capital cities and speaking a second language contribute to cultural competency, there is obviously more to it than that. Think of the difference between having cultural knowledge and being culturally competent like the difference between reading a book about South American cuisine and walking through a market where they sell roasted guinea pig in Ecuador. There is a HUGE difference. Cultural competency consists of awareness, attitudes, and knowledge that impact our behavior or how we relate to cultures outside of our own. In other words, knowing about geographic, social, political, and historical statistics of a country is just as important as knowing what the proper body language and customs of a different culture. If you haven't had the opportunity to be immersed in another culture, that does not mean that you are not culturally competent. On the contrary, being aware of your surroundings, eagerness to learn, accepting and questioning differences, and general curiosity are all steps in the right direction.
7.
Cultural competency is important because...
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
8.
Who is Ban-Ki Moon?
Correct Answer
B. Secretary General of the United Nations
Explanation
Previously to serving the United Nations, Ban Ki Moon was the Foreign Minister of Korean. He also served as a foreign diplomat in Austria, the United States, and India before being elected as the eighth Secretary-General of the United Nations in 2006. Ban was elected for a second term in 2011. Despite his high level of accomplishment, Ban came from humble beginnings. He grew up during the second world war in a small town in Japanese-occupied Korea where his family had to flee and live in the mountains in order to avoid violence. He is an inspirational figure to many in the international community. "Many say our world is at a tipping point. If we do not act together, if we do not act responsibly, if we do not act now, we risk slipping into a cycle of poverty, degradation, and despair." – Ban Ki Moon
9.
The United States has a national policy on international education.
Correct Answer
B. False
10.
International study can be a form of citizen diplomacy.
Correct Answer
A. True
11.
I cannot get financial aid if I participate in a Rutgers study abroad program.
Correct Answer
B. False
12.
Studying in Mexico is too dangerous because of the State travel warning.
Correct Answer
B. False
13.
It is possible to experience reverse culture shock when coming home from abroad.
Correct Answer
A. True
14.
Cultural competence is more relevant to professions in the social sciences than the natural sciences.
Correct Answer
B. False
15.
Culture refers to more than just the race and/or ethnicity of a person.
Correct Answer
A. True