Cultural Differences

Cambridge University Press eBooks, pp. 127–135

Abstract

The world of science is an international world. We share our knowledge and ideas with colleagues from across the globe at international conferences and through international journals, websites, blogs, vlogs, and so on. And even though these international communications are expressed in the same (typically English) language, that does not mean that we think and act the same. Cultural differences permeate the field of oral presentations in visible and invisible ways, and a basic level of cultural awareness is indispensable for an international presenter. You have to know your audience, their likes and dislikes, their goals and mindsets, their norms and values, and adapt your presentation accordingly. To this end, Chapter 10 discusses various relevant cultural differences that are important to take into account when presenting in an international context. Presentation techniques and habits that are perfectly acceptable in one culture may be considered arrogant or offensive in another culture – and it is good to be aware of that.

Authors 2

1. Fieke Harinck Aachen

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   Universiteit Leiden

2. Esther van Leeuwen Aachen

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   Universiteit Leiden