Cultural Sensitivity In researching cultural sensitivity in Costa Rica, I found interesting differences from the United States. My research included readings for this course, interviews, and using other research methods. This paper discusses my findings as they relate to surface and deep level cultural differences, the student-teacher relationship norms, differences in lifestyle from what I am currently used to, and social blunders or faux pas Americans make. Surface culture consists of the behaviors, actions, and practices of the people. It’s what can be observed or heard and consists of only 10% of what makes up the culture. I researched the religion, celebrations, food, dress, etc. The people of Costa Rica warmly refer to themselves as Ticos. It’s a very religious culture, with Catholic being the dominant religion. Major celebrations are observed, for example Easter. The Easter meal is an important and traditional celebration. Food in Costa Rica is prepared with a mixture of dry spices, not spicy, and consists of low fat and rich in proteins and carbohydrates, along with fresh fruits and vegetables, beef and salads. Ticos believe that good clothing leaves a good first impression and that dress is most important, especially when meeting new people. Women go out in public well groomed and perfectly made up, even the poorer ones. Men always wear long pants instead of shorts. Deep-level culture consists of people’s attitudes, values, and beliefs. These are held in people’s minds, which make it difficult to notice. Paying close attention, and going beyond visible behaviors, helps enhance the cultural sensitivity by learning to recognize the different values that lie behind people’s words and actions. Pura Vida, is a way of life in Costa Rica. As is being on “Tico Time”. It’s a laid back, slow approach to life, without a sense of urgency. Americans might interpret this as being lazy, by comparison to their driven state of life. Ticos are motivated not by work, but family. Most Americans are motivated by money. The racial and gender inequality in this hierarchal culture, may be difficult for this strong, independent woman to adjust to. Being American, from a culture based on equality, this might be one of my greatest opportunities for growth. Rice and Beans with Fish
Transcript
Cultural Sensitivity
In researching cultural sensitivity in Costa Rica, I found interesting differences from the United States. My research included readings for this course, interviews, and using other research methods. This paper discusses my findings as they relate to surface and deep level cultural differences, the student-teacher relationship norms, differences in lifestyle from what I am currently used to, and social blunders or faux pas Americans make.
Surface culture consists of the behaviors, actions, and practices of the people. It’s what can be observed or heard and consists of only 10% of what makes up the culture. I researched the religion, celebrations, food, dress, etc. The people of Costa Rica warmly refer to themselves as Ticos. It’s a very religious culture, with Catholic being the dominant religion. Major celebrations are observed, for example Easter. The Easter meal is an important and traditional celebration. Food in Costa Rica is prepared with a mixture of dry spices, not spicy, and consists of low fat and rich in proteins and carbohydrates, along with fresh fruits and vegetables, beef and salads. Ticos believe that good clothing leaves a good first impression and that dress is most important, especially when meeting new people. Women go out in public well groomed and perfectly made up, even the poorer ones. Men always wear long pants instead of shorts.
Deep-level culture consists of people’s attitudes, values, and beliefs. These are held in people’s minds, which make it difficult to notice. Paying close attention, and going beyond visible behaviors, helps enhance the cultural sensitivity by learning to recognize the different values that lie behind people’s words and actions. Pura Vida, is a way of life in Costa Rica. As is being on “Tico Time”. It’s a laid back, slow approach to life, without a sense of urgency. Americans might interpret this as being lazy, by comparison to their driven state of life. Ticos are
motivated not by work, but family. Most Americans are motivated by money. The racial and gender inequality in this hierarchal culture, may be difficult for this strong, independent woman to adjust to. Being American, from a culture based on equality, this might be one of my greatest opportunities for growth.
Rice and Beans with Fish
Cultural SensitivityThe student-teacher relationship and norms, e.g. dress code, preferred teaching approach,
etc. might be less of an adjustment. Teachers are regarded as professionals, and expected to dress in a professional manner. The Ticos are very relationship oriented, with priority given to family loyalty. A job is a job, and it doesn’t define the person. Their family and relationships define them. Students may show up late or be absent a lot due to family obligations, even if it negatively impacts their performance. As a relationship driven culture, students prefer to work in groups. They learn by doing, and it’s not uncommon for students to “cheat or plagiarize”, based on American standards. Students value collaboration and cooperation. Their language style is considered indirect. In the classroom, this is evidenced by how students express their views in a diplomatic way. Students don’t openly oppose another’s viewpoints. When asked if they understand, they most likely will respond positively, not wanting to hurt the feelings of the teacher. As a teacher, it is prudent that controversial subjects are not discussed.
Adjustments and differences to the lifestyle I currently am used to include, plumbing inconveniences. There’s no throwing tissue in the toilet, little to no direct hot water, and most places don’t have electric washer/dryers in the rentals. Another adjustment is around eating out. Waiters do not bring the bill until it is asked for, and the tip is included, along with a table service fee. Eating at the bar eliminates the table fee,
according to those I interviewed. A final notice is adult prostitution is legal in Costa Rica.
Finally, social blunders or faux pas Americans easily make in Costa Rica. In Costa Rica, if you buy something, it belongs to you. No refunds. You might get a store credit. Transportation blunders. Asking for directions of a taxi or a bus driver is frowned upon, and they become very annoyed. Also, do not get off a public bus beforeyour stop, such as to let someone off you might be in the way of, and then get back on. If you do, you’ll need to pay again. On public buses, you pay for both the luggage and rider. Lastly, a thumbs-up gesture might be offensive. American teachers use this frequently to check for understanding.
In conclusion, there are many levels to consider whenthinking about culture, and living and teaching in another country. While doing research can help
Bus transportation on the rough terrain
Cultural Sensitivityinform a person, being prepared for the intricacies and subtle nuisances of a culture can be paramount to one’s success. Always keep in mind to seek first to understand what lies behind people’s words and actions, and don’t make assumptions.
