This course critically interrogates the themes and processes of intercultural communication, global media, and globalization, attending to the effects and implications of those processes for communication.
Terms Offered
Fall 2024
Course Details
Course Description
Are you eager to explore the world without leaving your classroom? Interested in mastering the art of communication across diverse cultural landscapes? This dynamic class is your gateway to understanding and excelling in communication within varied cultural contexts, equipping you with the essential skills needed for today’s globalized environment. This course is ideal for students eager to develop their global communication skills, whether planning to work within the U.S., internationally, or in cross-cultural settings. Focused on the increasing need for professional’s adept at navigating the complexities of cultural dynamics in global communication, it provides a profound understanding of the ‘melting pot’ dynamic shaping our world. This course transcends theoretical knowledge, placing a significant emphasis on the practical application of intercultural competence and critical thinking. A unique aspect of the curriculum is its special focus on the power of visual narrative as a tool for effective global storytelling. Through this, students will learn how to craft compelling narratives that resonate across different cultures. By the end of the course, students will not only have a profound understanding of global communication but also the practical skills to apply this knowledge in real-world situations, making them invaluable assets in any global communication setting. Join us on this educational journey to become a skilled communicator in a global society, where your voice can truly make a difference.
Learning Outcomes
After completing this course, you should be able to:
- Understand the role of media in shaping cross-cultural communications.
- Understand the unique questions each culture addresses (e.g., perceptions of change, interactions with other cultures).
- Learn to identify and overcome communication behaviors that hinder effective intercultural interaction.
- Acquire knowledge and strategies for adjusting to different cultures and managing culture shock.
- Gain a deep understanding of mediated communication within a global context.
- Develop practical skills to succeed in diverse cultural settings.
Learn the art of crafting compelling narratives that connect with global audiences
Number of credits: 3
How You Will Learn and Work
This is a Global Classrooms Connections Course.
Cultural Connection
World-wide
General Education Credits
None
School/College
College of Arts and Humanities
Prerequisites & Restrictions
Restricted to COMM majors.
Faculty Highlight
![Picture of Lamia Zia](/sites/default/files/styles/optimized/public/2024-07/Lamia%20Zia.jpg?itok=lKqVmd7e)
Lamia Zia
Prof. Lamia Zia, an academic and researcher, has over a decade of extensive experience in international and digital communication. Previously a Model UN Advisor, she now serves as a lecturer in the Communication Department at the University of Maryland. Before joining the University of Maryland, Lamia taught at the College of Media and Communication, Texas Tech University. Her academic journey is marked by an impressive array of qualifications, holding three cross-disciplinary Master’s degrees in Political Science, Development Communications, and Journalism.
Presently, she is pursuing her doctorate in Statecraft and National Security at the Institute of World Politics, with a focus on cybersecurity within digital communication.
Lamia’s research interests are multifaceted, encompassing visual communication, conflict resolution, public diplomacy, and soft power, with a particular focus on the intersection of war and imagery. She has also served as a senior fellow at the Institute of Peace and Conflict (IPAC) at Texas Tech University, where her research was centered around the influential role of iconic imagery in shaping perceptions of peace and conflict in South Asia, with a special focus on Afghanistan and Pakistan. This important work has notably enhanced the understanding of how visual media can impact and potentially transform regional conflict dynamics and peace initiatives.
A strong advocate for women’s roles in peacebuilding, Lamia co-authored a pivotal study linking the increase of women’s participation in Parliament to the introduction and passage of laws protecting women in Pakistan. This work was published in the Journal of Political Studies. Her career in journalism, including a senior correspondent role at Geo News in Islamabad, was marked by extensive travel and cultural exploration, enriching her perspectives and work.
Lamia’s contributions extend to international diplomacy and research. She has worked with award-winning journalists, research scholars, and U.S.-Pakistani diplomats in Washington, D.C., and was a visiting fellow at the U.S.-Pakistan Women's Council. In 2004, she was honored with a British Council fellowship, conducting research at the Panos Institute London on strategies to reduce maternal mortality in Pakistan. Her findings were published in renowned media outlets, The Daily Iowan, The Express Tribune, Daily Times, and IowaWatch.
A global traveler, Lamia’s experiences in London, Scotland, Japan, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Canada, Germany, Pakistan, and the USA have profoundly influenced her professional journey and worldview.
She is committed to bridging the gap between academic theories and practical applications in national security and communication. She is particularly focused on the evolving role of digital media in global politics and national security, leveraging her extensive background in digital communication to enrich her academic contributions.
Tuition & Scholarship
Course costs should be calculated based on the university’s standard tuition and fees for undergraduate students and graduate students.
Students enrolled in winter and summer Global Classrooms courses may be eligible for the International Education Scholarship.
Cancellation and Refunds
Global Classrooms courses follow UMD's Schedule Adjustment policies.
Questions & Contact Info
For more course information contact Lamia Zia at lami1@umd.edu
For general questions, please contact the Global Classrooms team at globalclassrooms@umd.edu.