Mary Lynch, “Importance of Experiential Learning for Development of Essential Skills in Cross-Cultural and Intercultural Effectiveness”

This article examines the importance of cross-cultural misunderstandings within the lawyer-client relationship, a relationship which requires trust. Intercultural effectiveness is critical for law students to learn because of the significant consequences that flow from cross-cultural misunderstandings in relationships within law practice. It may result in interference with rapport, problem-solving, and peacemaking. Cross-cultural misunderstandings may unintentionally offend others and impact relationships.

This paper argues that it is integral to systemize the development of cross-cultural communication and intercultural effectiveness in a clinic. These learning outcomes will be best realized through well-designed and well-supervised clinical opportunities. These learning outcomes must manifest themselves throughout the supervision relationship, in one-to-one meetings, and through reflection.

The demographics of most clinic clientele offer an ideal context for exploring cross-cultural issues while focusing on the real human experience and embracing the role of a lawyer. The more students understand how biases affect one’s ability to represent clients and succeed in the workplace, the more they may be willing to explore those biases.

It is important to improve intercultural effectiveness amongst lawyers due to the diverse identities of clients and lawyers and the increasing role of cultural competence in the professional acculturation of lawyers.

Mary Lynch, “Importance of Experiential Learning for Development of Essential Skills in Cross-Cultural and Intercultural Effectiveness” (2015) 1:1 J Experiential Learning 129.