Comunicatus Blog
Culture is a Factor!
by Lucia Marguglio on 06/15/10
When we think of Aviation English courses for pilots, we think of improving the language proficiency level and developing communication skills that will enable pilots to effectively handle situations in routine work situations or unexpected turn of events that may occur within the context of their work situation.
The truth is language is not the only factor that needs to be addressed in an Aviation English program. Culture, as it turns out, is a major factor that needs to be addressed, especially for new pilots emerging in developing countries. Although countries like China are experiencing rapid economic growth, the culture and mentality in countries with such a long history, deep-rooted culture, and strong work ethics cannot evolve at the same speed.
Culture of a society comprises the shared values, understandings, assumptions, and goals that are learned from earlier generations, imposed by present members of a society, and passed on to succeeding generations. Values are a society’s ideas about what is good or bad, right or wrong and determine how individuals will probably respond in any given circumstance. For pilots in command reflecting aspects of their culture, such as hierarchy, can pose a major safety concern of which language has nothing to do with.
Cultural diversity should be integrated in any language course so that participants become aware of cultural differences, learn to get out of your comfort zone, continuously check communication and celebrate differences!
Comunicatus featured in Journal des Affaires
by Lucia Marguglio on 03/03/10
Journal des Affaires was looking for a growing business in a niche market and came across Comunicatus: two women entrepreneurs taking advantage of a new regulation governing the English language proficiency requirements for international pilots and air traffic controllers. The Marguglio sisters, language specialists, partnered with the CQFA, a continuing education specialist for pilots, to join forces and offer a unique training center for the aeronautical industry. To view the translated English article, click here.
