the four dimensions
The elements of knowledge are summarised in different headlines that illustrate what “displaying intercultural sensitivity” means for youth workers knowledge-wise. The “cluster headlines” do not name detailed knowledge as such; these can be found through clicking on the lists.
Identity-related aspects and ambiguity are at the heart of intercultural processes. + -
Thus, youth workers need some knowledge about mechanisms and concepts related to culture, identity, values etc. such as:
- identity-related mechanisms and theories
- knowledge of the mechanism of bias and how it affects feeling and acting
- knowledge of how a cultural environment can shape the understanding of different concepts (such as solidarity or inclusion)
- knowledge of the concept of a European identity, the values behind and ways in which it encourages solidarity
Power, discrimination and other political issues are important for this competence area. + -
Thus, youth workers need knowledge about:
- theories and concepts of privilege and power relations
- mechanisms linked to stereotypical constructions of reality
- discrimination mechanisms and how to address them
- human rights
Approaches and methods are needed to deal with challenges and to stimulate learning processes. + -
Thus, it is good to know about:
- methods that deal with diversity, culture, identity, discrimination
- human rights education methods
- notions and concepts of acceptance of ambiguity and change
Another factor here is language. + -
For youth workers it is helpful to know how to:
- speak at least one foreign language
