Yesterday we were charged with presenting on Lysgaard's U-Curve theory of cultural adjustment. Knowing this topic backwards and forwards from numerous lit reviews, I decided to suggest that my group make a little multimedia presentation that would best "show" how we've experienced the U-Curve, rather than just "tell."
The four stages of the U-Curve are:
Honeymoon: You've moved overseas. Overseas is pretty darn awesome. You love life and everything in it.
Crisis: Dear Sir and/or Madam, living overseas sucks when you have to actually figure out how to complete tasks like paying for the toilette, ordering a cappuccino, or asking for directions.
Recovery: Now that I know enough to say "Vore uno cappuccino," and, "Dove le bagno?" things are looking up.
Adjustment: Overseas? This isn't overseas! It's home!
Below is the result of our collective efforts.
And that's the U-Curve theory of cross-cultural adjustment in a nutshell. Not only was our apartment dark and scary (though the landlords were FANTASTIC), it also had parasite-infested beds that made us itch. After a quick visit to the hospital, we got antihistamine and a new, bug-free apartment.
1 comment:
Cultural Shock is a learning experience. I admire both of you for believing. I enjoyed watching your video. Good Luck.
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