Boys immersed in different cultures find it not only interesting but a life-changing experience. It’s humbling and character-building to experience another culture and one that teaches you to appreciate what you have, and to respect those who go without, as supported by Odyssey. As parents, it is important, to encourage and develop open-mindedness surrounding international perspective as boys grow.
Here is how cultural immersion enriches boys’ lives and can broaden their cultural experience:
Stimulates the mind
Live Rich Live Well explains that cultural immersion encourages boys to think outside of their usual scope - challenging their thought processes to make well-informed decisions. Boys learn that there is more than one approach to life and that their preference may not always be the most suitable for the situation or circumstance.
Fosters understanding
When a new culture is truly grasped, misunderstandings are less likely. Boys become more empathetic surrounding decisions that may differ to that of their own background.
Prepares for the future
As countries become more and more connected, appreciating and respecting cultural differences allows boys to acquire skills which facilitate their preparation for future international collaborations and a global employment landscape.
Reflection on their own culture
Immersing boys in a culturally diverse experience inadvertently serves as an exploration into boys’ own societal values. This is revealed through the process of knowledge and discovery, and from gaining a deeper perspective of their own place in the world.
The benefits of cultural immersion for boys are further reaching than knowledge of beliefs or an understanding of a culture’s way of life. Boys discover that their society’s values and lifestyle is just a small glimpse into a diverse global community. Fundamental in the world we live, boys develop into well-rounded and compassionate individuals by tolerating others’ differences with the ability to adapt and be receptive to additional perspectives. Culture immersion helps influence and re-shape boys’ lives for the better by providing enrichment and fulfilment.
At Christ Church Grammar School, Understanding and Inclusion forms part of our core values, in order to give meaning and purpose in boys’ lives. Book a school tour to discover our values and learn more about our focus on cultural immersion.