First, some models of cultural difference are summarized which precede from a global perspective viz. Hesselgrave’s (1991) cross cultural communication theory, Harris and Moran’s (1999) categorisation of culture and cultural systems, Hampden-Turner and Trompenaars’ (2000) six dimensions of cultural diversity and Hofstede’s (2001) seven dimensions of cultural difference.

Second, more models of cultural difference are summarized which precede from local frames of reference viz. Turner’s (1920) “frontier thesis”, Francis’s (1981) model of cultural change, Milnes’ (1985) model of change in cultural boundaries and Reynolds’ (1996) “frontier” concepts.

Third, the global and local frames of reference for understanding cultural difference is then checked against a suggested three tier system of individual, family and community responses for a particular group of Australian Indigenous tertiary business students.

Fourth, an alternative simplified model of cultural difference is developed called the “acquiescence” model. This model is based on asking a key question. “Who, what, when, where, why, how and who is being acquiesced in the cross-cultural relationship?” Some of the answers will cover issues such as presuppositions, locus of control, “last frontier” experiences, and the construction of Indigenous Australian tertiary business students.

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Keywords

• Cultural difference
• Indigenous Higher Education
• Models of cultural change
• Indigenous student construction

(30 min. Conference Paper, English)