Summary of "Cultural studies - Lecture 9.3"

Summary of “Cultural studies - Lecture 9.3”

Main Ideas and Concepts

Cultural Shock

The term cultural shock was coined by Canadian anthropologist Kalervo Oberg in the mid-1950s.
It is defined as the anxiety resulting from losing all familiar signs and symbols of social interaction when entering a new culture.
Culture is not innate but learned through social interaction within a specific environment.
When people move to a new cultural environment (e.g., students studying abroad), they must adapt to new cultural norms and practices.
Different cultures perceive and interpret the world differently, so it is important to accept these differences.
Cultural shock is inevitable for anyone entering a new cultural environment, but its intensity varies based on several factors.

Factors Influencing the Degree of Cultural Shock

Previous intercultural experience
Prior knowledge about the target culture
Linguistic ability in the target culture’s language
Human values previously learned
Personality traits and personal skills
Similarities between the home and target cultures
Geographic and climatic conditions
Specific situational factors in the new environment

Stages of Cultural Shock (as described by Oberg)

Honeymoon Stage: Initial enthusiasm and excitement; everything seems new and positive; good understanding and communication.
Rejection/Regression Stage: After a few weeks or months, difficulties arise such as physical discomfort, language barriers, homesickness, and cultural differences become more apparent; feelings of confusion, loneliness, anxiety, irritability.
Adjustment/Negotiation Stage: The individual begins to adapt, develops routines, makes friends, and starts to understand and accept cultural differences.
Mastery Stage: Takes 2-5 years; the person becomes fully adapted and feels like a cultural native, integrating deeply into the new culture. Not all people reach this stage.

Contextual Application

The previous lecture discussed Kazakhstan’s cultural policy, national identity, and the concept of the national idea.
The current lecture introduces a new topic: Digital Kazakhstan program.
Instead of a traditional lecture, students are assigned to:
- Read and analyze the Digital Kazakhstan program.
- Reflect on its strengths, weaknesses, and future prospects.
- Use official resources and data provided on the program’s website.
This assignment is relevant as the university and government aim to integrate digital development into the cultural and academic sphere.

Methodology and Instructions

Understanding Cultural Shock

Recognize that cultural shock is a normal process when entering a new culture.
Identify which stage of cultural shock you or others might be experiencing.
Use knowledge of influencing factors to prepare for and mitigate cultural shock.

Stages of Cultural Shock

Honeymoon: Enjoy initial excitement.
Rejection: Expect challenges and emotional lows.
Adjustment: Develop coping strategies, routines, and social networks.
Mastery: Aim for full cultural integration (long-term goal).

Assignment on Digital Kazakhstan Program

Read the official Digital Kazakhstan program materials.
Analyze and critically reflect on:
- Positive aspects of the program.
- Negative aspects or challenges.
- Future outlook and potential impact.
Use official data and analysis provided on the program’s website.
Prepare to discuss findings in seminar lessons.

Speakers and Sources Featured

Kalervo Oberg – Canadian anthropologist who coined the term “cultural shock.”
Lecture Speaker – unnamed university lecturer delivering the cultural studies lecture.
References to Kazakhstan’s cultural policy and the Digital Kazakhstan program as contextual materials.

This summary captures the core ideas about cultural shock, its stages, influencing factors, and the related academic assignment on the Digital Kazakhstan program.