Commentary on Florence TEFL Culture Capstone Assignment: The 1966 Flood!
As you point out, culture is not monuments or static; it is a living heritage! By studying and observing, you could appreciate the commemorative flood markers in Florence and, most importantly, what they meant—and still mean to Florentines today. They are hidden gems of Florence, and your observations about cultural resilience and people as ambassadors of culture confirm that you, yourselves, are no longer tourists. You encountered the city and engaged by seeing how Florence values its past and allows everyone to find a moment of shared community. Your individual reflection was poignant and insightful. Excellent! Indeed, you honored the city—and it will do the same for you! It is humbling and human.
Continue to reflect on these special places and cultural “markers,” and remember your active searching and researching this month in Florence!
CAN YOU SPELL CULTURE?
- C- culture is pervasive – Everyone, every organization, every region, and every country have a culture.
- U – Understanding cultural beliefs, values, and perceptions of others is a key to success. AND vice versa
- L – Learning diverse cultural heritage is rewarding, inspiring and empowering
- T – Teamwork in the increasingly global and diverse workplace is impossible without cultural intelligence
- U – “Us” and “Them” cultural programming and divide can be eased through better understanding of “their” perceptions
- R – Rapport starts with understanding of where the other people are coming from and acceptance of their point of view and style.
- E – Exploiting cultural diversity is a key to unlimited innovation and growth
