The history of Esperanto, a language created to promote international communication, is chronicled. Discussion focuses on the origins and development of the language, early attitudes toward its adoption, patterns of use and recognition, the development of a literature in and of Esperanto, the culture associated with the language. (Author/MSE)

Presents current concerns in the field of critical sociolinguistics in such a way that sociologists and linguists otherwise uninterested in Esperanto will see some arguments for approaching Esperanto culture as a source of new insight into fundamental aspects of society and language. (DJD)

Outlines a series of activities for an integrated thematic unit on cars, engaging students in group projects, individually chosen assignments, and activities based on observation of and immersion in the "car-related" culture. Bases the unit on a progression of cultural learning goals. (MM)

The author describes his visit to an elderly Inuit and the interaction resulting from his request to buy an old harpoon that the Inuit had used in hunting. He concludes that, no matter how long he lives in the village, he will never completely understand the Inuit culture, nor will they completely accept him. (LP)

Uses university students to reevaluate the theory of universal value structure as developed by S. Schwartz and the Individualism-Collectivism syndromes as proposed by H. Triandis and others. Concludes that both concepts have acceptance in an intercultural setting. Reveals several anomalies that need further investigation. Addresses the importance…

Describes an experiential self-assessment exercise and discusses how it can assist business professionals and students in assessing their communication behaviors for intercultural business success. (SR)

Uses an international framework of work-related values to offer 13 practical suggestions for improving the effectiveness of training initiatives directed at Mexican Americans. Notes implications for universities as well. (SR)

Describes a simulation that provides a realistic business context and gives participants the opportunity to experience a clash of cultural values. Notes that the participants are divided into three fictional cultures with specific cultural profiles. Notes that the simulation has been successfully used with undergraduates, MBA students, and…

Presents a sampling of items from the ERIC database on the interactions between Japan and the United States. Includes items on diplomatic and intercultural relations, historical trends, technology, and business competition. Offers information on using the database and obtaining materials. (DK)

The European Community is facing the dilemma of respecting and maintaining Europe's traditional national languages and cultures while facilitating communication. This objective can be met by expecting all citizens to speak in their native languages but understand several others, placing emphasis on comprehension in second-language instruction.…

Discusses how to help and understand discouraged ethnic clients with difficulties in cross-cultural adjustment and communication, within conceptual framework of self-validation model. Explores validation themes regarding the emotional impact of cultural relocation and the nature of adjustment difficulties. Discusses counseling as a process of…

Discusses setting up conversation tables on campus in cross-cultural interaction among native and nonnative speakers, presents ways to teach proverbs in the advanced classroom, describes how to use Aesop's fables to integrate all learning skills, tells how to teach make/do, and suggests ways to improve communicative skills for better accuracy and…

An Australian study investigated attitudes of 357 foreign university students and 359 Australian students concerning each other's friendliness, extent of current contact in/out of class, and preferred level of contact. Differences in the two groups' perceptions were found, associated with degree program. Differences between Australians and…

Adaptation to a new culture creates acculturative stress. This article defines and describes aspects of the pervasive, intense, and lifelong stressors among Hispanic emigres in the United States. Counselors should learn Hispanic immigrants' realities and the psychological impact of acculturation so as to help immigrants adapt to these stressors.…

Considers the problems arising from cultural and religious differences in Jewish-non-Jewish marriage. Treatment requires dealing with family systems dynamics while educating the couple about the role of cultural difference in their relationship. Treatment should help couple view their differences flexibly as they blend their cultures. (RJM)