When we did the activity in class that focused on intercultural competence and can-do statements, I decided to focus on Spain. I’m currently in Spanish 200, and I plan on studying abroad there next Spring. I felt the most comfortable with the  “basic cultural beliefs and values” category. I understand the difference between addressing someone formally and informally. In Spain, you use “usted” to address someone formally, and you use “tu” to address someone informally. Also, I am familiar with some of major historical event and role of religion in Spain, which I have learned through readings and class discussion.

In the syllabus, one of the learning objects is to be able to think critically about and question your own culture. I think that this is an important point because it asks us to stop thinking about our own culture as the norm. The syllabus also mentions intercultural awareness and communication. I think that it’s important to be able to communicate with others, which relates back to our class discussion about introductions. When you introduce yourself, you need to consider what information is appropriate to share and if it will be understood.