Welcome to the Intercultural Toolkit!
Here in the Intercultural Office at Messiah University, we value experiences that lead to an increased understanding of the world and our place within it. We are committed to providing safe and transformative learning opportunities for our students, and want to provide resources here that foster continual intercultural learning and increased cross cultural competency.
Do you want to increase your knowledge and understanding of other cultures?
Whether you work with international or multicultural students, or are planning on spending time in a different country, here are some resources to help you improve your cross cultural communication skills and better understand people from cultural backgrounds that differ from your own.
The Transcultural Journey - Richard Slimbach
Milton J. Bennett's Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity (DMIS)
Developing Intercultural Competence for International Education Faculty & Staff
Examples of Racial Microaggressions
Students all have great stories to tell about their lives and experiences, but all too often their stories go untold. Digital Storytelling allows students to creatively communicate their narratives to faculty and other students. Check out the links below to learn more!
Examples of Digital Storytelling: The Fabric of Life and Inca World Digital Storytelling
Digital Storytelling and Cross-Cultural Courses Powerpoint Presentation
Center for Digital Storytelling
Educational Uses of Digital Storytelling
For reading pre-departure:
Becoming World Wise: A Guide to Global Learning - Richard Slimbach
Transformations at the Edge of the World: Forming Global Christians through the Study Abroad Experience - Edited by Ronald J. Morgan and Cynthia Toms Smedley
Foreign to Familiar - Sarah A. Lanier
For reading after returning from off campus experiences:
The Art of Coming Home - Craig Storti
Assessing the Impact of Study Abroad on Student Learning at Michigan State University
Career Benefits of Study Abroad
How Study Abroad Supports Graduate Employability
Study Abroad Increases Professional Job Prospects
Studying Abroad Can Help You Stand Out From Peers
The Importance of International Experience During the College Years
Whether you are participating in a cross cultural course or spending a semester off campus, here are some resources for you!
Off Campus Programs' Health & Safety Information
Cultural Etiquette and Norms: Nation by Nation
How to Pick a Cellphone Plan for Traveling Abroad
US State Department: Country Specific Information
US State Department: Students Abroad
US State Department: Traveler's Checklist
World Health Organization: International Travel & Health
