Multiculturalism In ASEAN

There are 4 modules in the course:

(a) Introduction to Multiculturalism in ASEAN,
(b) Global Trends and Practices in Multiculturalism,
(c) Managing Cultural Diversity in the Workplace in ASEAN, and
(d) Multilingualism in ASEAN.

The course explores, firstly, aspects of multiculturalism at the regional level and analyses the various approaches towards understanding cultural diversity and multiculturalism in the ASEAN context. In addition, it examines societal multilingualism and the contexts and use of languages in different societies and communities in the region. It also investigates the management of cross-cultural diversity in the workplace which is so essential for work productivity, and finally, assesses, multiculturalism around the world.

The course provides a learning experience that is interactive and multicultural in essence, as it raises questions and comparisons on how issues pertaining to multiculturalism are being addressed at the national and regional levels. Discussions of some of these issues with case studies provided for comparison to share best practices and ideas are encouraged. Through the lectures and discussions, the course hopes to raise awareness of the many challenges that we face today in ASEAN and around the world in confronting diversities and in making multiculturalism and cultural pluralism a way of life.

This course is for anyone interested in Southeast Asia and ASEAN, the region’s diverse cultures as well as its multicultural issues and challenges. It is suitable for anyone who is currently doing a Bachelors’s degree or has completed one in any discipline as well as for anyone who just wants to gain more knowledge of Southeast Asia and ASEAN.

• Introduction to Multiculturalism in ASEAN
• Welcome to the course
• Understanding Multiculturalism
• Diversity in ASEAN member countries
• ASEAN Socio-Culture Community
• Multiculturalism: Global Trends and Practices
• Multiculturalism around the world- Definitions; Evolution and Current Trends
• Debates and Myths around Multiculturalism
• Multiculturalism and its enemies
• Conclusion
• Multilingualism in ASEAN
• Welcome to the course
• English and local languages in Southeast Asia
• Language contact in Southeast Asia
• Language policies and multilingualism in ASEAN
• Managing Cultural Diversity in the Workplace in ASEAN
• Cross-Cultural Communication
• Working with Multi-cultural Teams
• Cultural Essentials of Doing Business in ASEAN
• Conclusions