PAPER # 1
**Instructions**:
1. Answer all questions.
2. Write your answers in the provided answer booklet.
3. Ensure your answers are clear, concise, and well-organized.
4. Be sure to allocate your time wisely. You have 2 hours for this exam.
**Part A: Multiple Choice (20 marks)**
Circle the letter of the correct answer.
1. Which of the following best defines the concept of culture?
a) A set of universal values
b) A shared way of life of a group of people
c) A standardized set of business practices
d) A company's marketing strategy
2. What is cultural intelligence (CQ)?
a) A measure of intelligence specific to a particular culture
b) The ability to understand and adapt to different cultures
c) The knowledge of one's own culture
d) The ability to speak multiple languages fluently
3. Which of the following is NOT one of Hofstede's cultural dimensions?
a) Individualism vs. Collectivism
b) Power Distance
c) Masculinity vs. Femininity
d) Ethnocentrism
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, 4. In the context of cross-cultural communication, what does "high-context culture"
mean?
a) A culture that relies heavily on verbal communication
b) A culture where messages are conveyed primarily through non-verbal cues and
contextual information
c) A culture that uses written communication exclusively
d) A culture with a low level of understanding
5. What is the main goal of cross-cultural management?
a) To eliminate cultural differences in the workplace
b) To promote a single global culture
c) To understand and leverage cultural differences to achieve business goals
d) To create a homogenous organizational culture
**Part B: Short Answer Questions (30 marks)**
6. Explain the concept of cultural shock. Provide examples of how it can affect
expatriate employees and suggest strategies to help them cope with it.
**Answer**: Cultural shock is the disorientation and discomfort experienced by
individuals when they encounter a new and unfamiliar culture. It can affect expatriate
employees by causing stress, anxiety, and a sense of isolation. To help them cope,
companies can provide pre-departure training, cultural sensitivity training, and
mentorship by experienced expatriates.
7. Compare and contrast the concepts of ethnocentrism and cultural relativism in the
context of cross-cultural management.
**Answer**: Ethnocentrism is the belief that one's own culture is superior to others,
while cultural relativism is the belief that each culture should be understood and
evaluated in its own context. Ethnocentrism can lead to misunderstandings and
conflicts, while cultural relativism promotes cultural sensitivity and effective cross-
cultural management.
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