Bridging Cultures and Time Zones: My Journey in Intercultural Communication and Telecollaboration

I am a Communication Management master’s student at Tallinn University Baltic Film, Media and Arts School, and in this blog, I am excited to share how my course on KOI7067.FK Basics of Intercultural Communication has opened my eyes to the rich cultures of both the U.S. and Russia. Growing up in Cameroon, with its unique cultural influences, and now living in Estonia, I have gained a deep appreciation for the power of understanding and embracing cultural differences. Join me as I reflect on my journey, the lessons I have learned, and how this experience has shaped the way I approach intercultural communication.

At the beginning of the project, I was uncertain about how well we would telecollaborate due to differences in communication styles and the challenges posed by time zones from Tallinn and Louisiana. However, the experience turned out to be highly enriching. One memorable moment was our first WhatsApp meeting, where we discussed the project's scope and divided tasks. Despite the time zone differences, everyone was enthusiastic, and we quickly created a collaborative atmosphere. We used tools like Google Docs for real-time document collaboration and task management, which helped us stay organised and on track.

Though we encountered some challenges, such as a miscommunication about task allocation, these setbacks ultimately provided valuable learning opportunities. After clarifying expectations and assigning specific responsibilities, we made significant progress. This experience highlighted the importance of clear and transparent communication, especially in a multicultural setting where different communication styles can lead to misunderstandings. This telecollaboration helped me to understand the culture of people from Ossetia (part of Russia) and that of South Louisiana (USA).

Looking back on the completion of the course, I feel a sense of accomplishment. I gained a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in intercultural communication, particularly in a virtual setting. The experience also showed me how technology, especially AI tools, could play a significant role in bridging cultural gaps.

One of the most important lessons I learned during this project was the need for adaptability in intercultural communication. I realized that what works in one cultural context might not work in another, and being flexible and open-minded is essential. Throughout the project, I had to adapt my communication style, which helped me become more empathetic and culturally aware.

Collaborating with students from University of Louisiana Monroe also changed me in meaningful ways. The cultural differences we encountered taught me to be more patient and considerate in my interactions. I had to actively listen and ask clarifying questions to ensure I understood my teammates’ perspectives. These experiences significantly improved my ability to communicate effectively and respectfully in a diverse team setting.

Looking ahead, I have set personal goals to continue developing my intercultural communication skills. I plan to engage more with learning about different cultures, enhance my active listening abilities, and explore how technology can further bridge cultural gaps. This project demonstrated the potential of AI tools in making intercultural communication more effective, and I am eager to continue exploring this area in the future.

In conclusion, my intercultural telecollaboration experience was both challenging and rewarding. It taught me valuable lessons about adaptability, empathy, and the role of technology in facilitating communication across cultures. This experience has not only enhanced my professional skills but also deepened my understanding of intercultural dynamics. As I move forward, I feel better equipped to engage in future intercultural collaborations and apply the lessons I have learned to improve communication in diverse setting.