Chapter Four: Table of Contents

Culture in the Workplace: What can you learn about cultural interaction in the workplace?

From Jan's Journal: Learn about Jan's experience at the local AIDS clinic where she works.

Concept of Power: Consider the notion of "power distance".

Trust: Reflect on the lessons learned by a Peace Corps Volunteer in Guatemala.

Dialogues: What misunderstandings might arise when a Peace Corps Volunteer does not recognize power distinctions?

Cross-Cultural Dialogue: Read about a Peace Corps Volunteer's experience on her first day of teaching.

Attitude Toward Uncertainty and the Unknown: How do people respond to the uncertainty of life?

Dialogues: Study evidence of high and low uncertainty avoidance.

No Legs: Read about the difficulty one Peace Corps Volunteer encounters while trying to get her project started.

The Source of Status: What is the difference between "achieved" or "ascribed" status?

Workplace Values: Compare host country and American views concerning power in the workplace.

Observing the Workplace: Follow and observe someone working in your host country.

You Americans: What are the feelings of Host Country Nationals who work with Americans?

Pacing: Respond to a situation where a Peace Corps Volunteer has trouble adjusting to the work ethic in the host country.

Turning the Tables: Put yourself in the place of Host Country Nationals working with American Peace Corps Volunteers.

Turning the Tables Part Two: Which factors work in favor of American Volunteers?

From Jan's Journal- An Analysis: Read Jan's journal entry again, keeping in mind the new things you just learned about culture.