Awkward Misinterpretation

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Comments by faculty members and students showing different views on the comic strip and the topic in general

Nitin Hegde - Master DKE Student

Hailing from the sub-continent, where communication between students and the faculty can be categorized as formal than friendly or personal, I can understand why it could lead to misinterpretation by students. It is important to recognise and acknowledge cultural differences and if a student fails to do so, then it is okay for them to talk to even mentors or study counselors to learn about them (they are friendly and approachable as you can see!). Honest mistakes are tolerated but it should not transcend to ignorance.

Priyanka Singh - Master DKE Student

The comic is relatable since Sam might be coming from a different cultural background and perception for a situation might vary from one place to another. Thus this exposure to friendliness of faculty was misinterpreted by him. I appreciate the clear communication from the faculty to make him understand this and hope Sam learnt this and such mistakes will not be repeated again.

Dr. Claudia Krull

The comic shows a situation, where a difference in communication cultures leads to an uncomfortable situation. Even though the exact setting is hypothetical, these incidents do happen, and are partially due to the friendly and open communication common here at our faculty. The necessary separation between teachers and students also exists here, but the friendly communication style seems to contradict that. Some students do not understand the difference between being friendly and being friends.
What is important to note is, that not all faculty members would react as understandingly as our tutor here does. Not all of us are aware of these differences in communication styles, same as for the students, which can lead to a myriad of awkward situations. Please be lenient with us, as we are trying to be lenient with you, when we detect misunderstandings.