Defining Cultural Awareness
There are varying definitions of cultural awareness. The following two are offered to underpin the principles and concepts espoused in this module. The NCCC defines “cultural awareness” as being cognizant, observant, and conscious of similarities and differences among and between cultural groups (Goode, 2001, revised 2006).
According to Winkelman (2005), awareness of cultural differences and their impact on behavior is the beginning of intercultural effectiveness. He states that “cultural self-awareness includes recognition of one’s own cultural influences upon values, beliefs, and judgments, as well as the influences derived from the professional’s work culture” (p. 9). (For more definitions, see Teaching Tools: Key Definitions.)
Cultural awareness can help faculty to:
Acknowledge how culture shapes their own perceptions
Be more responsive to culturally diverse students and colleagues
Be more sensitive and accessible as a mentor or supervisor
Be alert to cultural differences and similarities that will present opportunities and challenges to working in a multicultural environment
Influence the next generation of public health professionals to be culturally aware as a prerequisite toward achieving cultural and linguistic competence.
Cultural awareness includes being conscious of organizational culture and its implications for policy, practice, teaching, research, and community engagement.