Improving intercultural communication

International communication among Europeans can often be problematic – not just because of the language barrier, but also because of differing cultural backgrounds. The PICTURE Project team have developed a language teaching module designed to improve intercultural communication. The module can be used in combination with any type of language training course in the EU, whether in students' native language or a foreign language. It is suitable for all skill levels, from university to vocational training, from age 16 onwards.

The name PICTURE is an acronym for 'Portfolio Intercultural Communication: Towards Using Real Experiences’. The project began in October 2004 and has recently been completed.

How does PICTURE work?

Students participating in the PICTURE Project learn a language by actually using it in practice. At the heart of the PICTURE teaching module are a series of personal interviews which students conduct with foreign visitors. Students prepare themselves for the interviews using a CD-ROM containing film clips of earlier interviews and assignments.

Further information

For more information about the PICTURE Project, please see the project website: www.worldenough.net/picture/.