Expert: John Fuller - 5/20/2010

Question
Delphi Panel Report



Question: “The evidence we have collected in both surveys and focus groups suggests that Gen Y find most of international students cannot get along with the local students well because of the language barrier, different cultures, customs and their passive attitudes towards the locals. It is not serious that the locals discriminate to the international students. Do you think that in the future, Gen-Ys are likely to communicate with those international students more and how the situation can be improved?


Thanks!!!!

Best regards

Chris Wong

Answer
Hi Chris,

I have given lectures on the Y Generation at Johns Hopkins and feel that there are times when people must check their assumptions about generations even when there are surveys, reports, etc. that may point towards communication difficulties.  I believe that the communication barriers affect all generations.  At Johns Hopkins Hospital, we had a large International Department whose responsibilities were to ensure patients had culturally competent care.  While all of these people assigned to International were very good at what they did, they had difficulties with the nursing staff and support personnel from all generations with communications.  It would appear that you are having the same difficulties.

My advice is to use the power of the social networking sites including Facebook, Twitter, and others that will blend the current generation's dependence on using text and postings to communicate.  You would be amazed on how this cuts down on perceived discrimination.  One must understand that it is not discrimination unless someone acts upon a personal prejudice.  People like being around people like themselves as I am sure International students do as well.  So to break down the barriers, there must be common ground from both sides.  Cultural competence begins with understanding and respect of another culture while also being aware of your own and how it may affect others.  If there are opportunities to have a diversity trainer come to your location and provide some cultural competency training, that is another idea.  Assembling diversity action teams that are made up of both international and local students is another idea.  These diversity action teams can focus upon internal and external projects and work together.  Everyone will be amazed at how many diverse opinions and solutions there are and how they can blend together to come up with something special.  People start to appreciate others when they are exposed to others' differences.  That does not mean we all have to agree with each other because really that would be boring.  However, unless we can respect and appreciate each other's point of view, culture, language, etc., it will be extremely difficult to create an amiable environment.

Use as much electronic means as possible to "plug in" to either other's cultures.  If you have further questions, please let me know.  

John