Angelina Cuenca's Blog Reflection
Building Bridges - Communication in Action🌸
When this assignment was first introduced, I wasn't expecting it to be something I'd deeply enjoy. I was used to the standard write-up, summarizing key points with a few personal observations. However, sitting through the various presentations and reflecting on my own experience has shifted my perspective. These projects went beyond textbook summaries; they created space for meaningful learning, thoughtful dialogue, and genuine insight. Not only did I learn more about intercultural communication, group dynamics, and leadership, but I also walked away with more awareness over my own habits, strengths, and areas for growth as a communicator and group member.
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Out of all the presentations, the one on intercultural communication stood out to me the most. Not only was it well done and presented, it also resonated with my own background and interests, I've spent time learning both Japanese and American Sign Language (ASL), which has shaped the way I think about communication across cultures and communities. Language isn't just about the words spoken, it is about the way in which they are said and the body language accompanying them. It provides us a window into the values, assumptions, and rhythms of a culture. This is something I've come to appreciate deeply over time, and this presentation reaffirmed that understanding.
Many of the concepts the group covered were things I was already familiar with through both personal study and experience: high-context versus low-context cultures, nonverbal communication, and stereotypes I'd heard or seen in media. Communication patterns are deeply ingrained in culture, and misunderstandings often happen below the surface, even in the smallest interactions.
For example, I've learned in my studies that in Japanese culture, silence can carry just as much weight as speaking; it can communicate respect, reflection, or disagreement in a much subtler way than what we're used to in many Western cultures. In ASL, facial expressions and body language are essential to meaning, showcasing how communication is never just verbal.
Even though some of the material wasn't entirely new to me, I still found the presentation incredibly engaging and valuable. I appreciated the way they explained concepts clearly and used visuals and examples that kept the class involved, Even familiar topics can be seen in a new light when someone brings their own interpretation and teaching style to them. I especially liked the comparisons they made between different cultures' approaches to disagreement and humor. Those nuances are exactly what make studying intercultural communication so interesting to me.
One thing I took away from the presentation is how important it is to stay curious and open-minded, no matter how much you think you know about a topic. Intercultural communication is a lifelong learning process. Every interaction has the potential to challenge your assumptions or teach you something new. The more I study language and culture, the more I realize how complex and beautiful communication can be. It's not just about avoiding misunderstandings, it's about connecting through those differences, appreciating perspective, and being willing to learn and close the gap.
This presentation wasn't just educational, it was inspiring. It reminded me of why I fell in love with language and culture in the first place, I'm really glad this topic was covered in class and presented thoughtfully. Our classrooms, workplaces, and even online spaces are full of people from different backgrounds. The more we practice cultural empathy and open-mindedness, the better communicators we become, not just across borders, but within our own diverse communities.
Chapter 9: Communicating in Groups - From Conflict to Collaboration🔍
Chapter 9's focus on group communication was another area where theory and real-life experiences aligned. The presentation on this chapter offered a clear breakdown of group roles, dynamics, and the stages of group development, but what made it most effective was the way it mirrored our own class experiences. As I watched the slides and heard the explanations, I noticed how almost every behavior and stage described had occurred in the groups I've worked in, both in and out of school.
One of the key takeaways for me was the classification of roles in a group: task roles, maintenance roles, and disruptive roles. Looking back on our own group project, I was able to identify these roles in action. Some members took on task roles by organizing meetings and outlining some of our work. Others provided maintenance by encouraging participation and easing tensions during stressful moments. There were also moments of disruption, not from malicious intent, but from misunderstandings and different work styles. Understanding these roles helped me realize that every group will have challenges, but with awareness and communication, those challenges can be addressed constructively.
The concept of communication climate was especially powerful for me. A positive climate, one that feels supportive, respectful, and open, really makes a difference. In the past, I've been in groups where criticism was harsh and ideas were dismissed, discouraging the other groupmates. However, in our group, we worked to create a space where everyone could contribute. Despite our disagreements, we tried to communicate and address them without shutting anyone down. I'm now more conscious of how my own tone, listening habits, and feedback style can affects a group's atmosphere in negative or positive ways.
Chapter 10: Group Leadership and Problem Solving - Redefining What It Means to Lead📢
Leadership is a concept I struggled with heavily in the past. This chapter was where the content hit closest to home, especially as I looked back on moments where leadership was needed but not always provided, or where I found myself needing to step into that role despite my lack of confidence or extroversion.
Something that truly stayed with me was the idea that leadership doesn't always come from a person holding a title or authority. Sometimes, it's the person who helps others stay organized, encourages ideas, or steps in when things start falling apart. Leadership, I learned, is more about service and support than control. This changed how I view myself in relation to the concept of leadership. I used to think I could never be a leader, because I'm quiet and rarely ever took charge. But now I see that leadership can
be quiet; it can be about showing up, listening, and making space for others.
Final Thoughts - Applying the Lessons Beyond the Classroom🤟
After participating in and observing these presentations, I feel like I have grown in my communication skills. It helped me better grasp the material, and also understand how it connects to the real world in practical, human ways. I now think more critically about my communication, acknowledging how culture, context, group dynamics, and leadership influence every interaction. I'm more aware of the roles I play in groups, how I can contribute to a healthy communication climate, and how I can be a better leader- not by commanding, but by listening and uplifting others.
In a short amount of time, his class has given me the tools I didn't expect I could ever posses. I know these lessons will apply not just in future classes or jobs, but in interpersonal relationships, activism, and community involvement. These projects reminded me that how we show up and communicate with others can shape the spaces we move through, whether or not we're aware of it.
Thank you for reading!
Excellent reflection. You are very wise with your thoughts.
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