This unit I have learned a lot about the fundamentals and basics of intercultural communication but what has been really interesting to me is that there is an actual test on this. The Behavioral Assessment Scale for Intercultural Competence (BASIC) was developed to test people on their knowledge of communicating with people other than those in their own cultures and while it is very detailed, can this really evaluate such a thing?
BASIC seems like a very detailed test that has been redone and reevaluated at least a couple times; yet, I am still skeptical. Respect is one of my major concerns. I can give the right answers and pretend to be respectful to lots of people if I study enough, it does not mean that I actually verbalize this and incorporate it into my life. I could see many racist people using this in their favor to really tear people down later but they can say that they are certified and tested to be well versed interculturally.
My ex-boyfriend knew that I had a heart for human services and supported me non stop; however, he flew a confederate flag. This was obviously an issue for me because I knew that it would not be welcoming towards some of my clients or friends that I was trying to establish. He told me I need a history lesson that he was not really racist. Yet, when I introduced him to my African American friend Josey it did not go well. They both smiled, shook hands, and I was content until Josey said to me "He doesn't like colored people like me, does he?" I defended him because he gave the right answers and seem well versed and made me question my own thoughts; however, in the end his actions got the best of him and I knew it would never work.
Maybe I am wrong about the test as well, but because of recent life experience I am just very skeptical and would never want to take the test. I would hope that my life would show it more than a piece of paper saying I passed.
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