Register for Advanced Modules (open to previous Masterclass graduates only)
Deep Culture Approach Advanced Modules build on insights in JII’s Masterclasses. They are open to only graduates of a previous Masterclass. You can qualify for advanced modules by taking JII’s DCA Foundation Module: The Psychology of Intercultural Understanding. For more info and to sign up, see here.
What do advanced modules cover? Advanced modules are intended as an intense learning experience with a significant time commitment (6-8 hours per week). Participants can take modules individually but it is recommended that they take them as a set of three. In 2026 there will be three advanced modules offered. The first two weeks of each module focuses on applying theory to practice. In the third week, participants present their own applications or reflections on the module content. Advanced modules are open only to graduates of a previous Masterclass.
Each advanced module includes:
- Pre-reading / listening activities
- Three 2-hour webinars in 3 consecutive weeks
- Weekly assignments
- Online learning community
- One peer presentation
- One final quiz
Modules emphasize learning about theory and research and then applying key insights to educational contexts. Participants can take modules individually but it is recommended that they take them as a set of three. Advanced modules are open only to graduates of a previous Masterclass.
Advanced Module 1 – Culture, Body and Mind This module explores the many ways in which culture is integral to our bodies and minds, perceptions and intuitions. We will focus on insights related to the evolutionary roots of culture, culture as embodied knowledge, and cultural intuitions. We will explore the idea that culture is not simply something that influences us—rather human beings are cultural at the deepest levels of the self. We will contrast a cultural psychology approach with traditional paradigms.
- Apr 24 (Fri) 2026 – 12:00–14:00 UTC
(08:00 New York / 13:00 London / 14:00 Paris / 21:00 Tokyo) - May 1 (Fri) 2026 – 12:00–14:00 UTC
(08:00 New York / 13:00 London / 14:00 Paris / 21:00 Tokyo) - May 8 (Fri) 2026 – 12:00–14:00 UTC
(08:00 New York / 13:00 London / 14:00 Paris / 21:00 Tokyo)
Advanced Module 2 – The Psychology of Cultural Difference This module explores psychological variation around the world. It reviews different forms of research that seek to understand cultural variation. We will learn about psychometric approaches (e.g. Hofstede, Globe, WVS); navigational approaches (e.g. Trompenaars, Meyer), and psychological approaches (e.g. Hall, Nisbett, Kitayama). We will explore ways to help learners develop their cultural intuitions and better recognize deep cultural patterns.
- May 29 (Fri) 2026 – 12:00–14:00 UTC
(08:00 New York / 13:00 London / 14:00 Paris / 21:00 Tokyo) - Jun 5 (Fri) 2026 – 12:00–14:00 UTC
(08:00 New York / 13:00 London / 14:00 Paris / 21:00 Tokyo) - Jun 12 (Fri) 2026 – 12:00–14:00 UTC
- (08:00 New York / 13:00 London / 14:00 Paris / 21:00 Tokyo)
Advanced Module 3 – Deep Culture Learning and Adjustment This module explores how learners modify the mental models through foreign experiences. We will deepen our understanding of the Developmental Model of Linguaculture Learning, as well as explore the Deep Culture Model of cultural learning. We will learn common psychological reactions to the stresses of cultural learning, including resistance, reversal and forced adaptation. We will learn how to interpret learner reactions to cultural difference and explore the difference between surface and deep cultural experiences. The focus is on helping learners go from simplistic to more complex perceptions of culture.
- Jul 3 (Fri) 2026 – 12:00–14:00 UTC
(08:00 New York / 13:00 London / 14:00 Paris / 21:00 Tokyo) - Jul 10 (Fri) 2026 – 12:00–14:00 UTC
(08:00 New York / 13:00 London / 14:00 Paris / 21:00 Tokyo) - Jul 17 (Fri) 2026 – 12:00–14:00 UTC
(08:00 New York / 13:00 London / 14:00 Paris / 21:00 Tokyo)
Certification Participants receive certification for participating in each of the three modules. Participants who complete all three advanced modules can earn the The Psychology of Intercultural Understanding Masterclass Advanced Certification, issued by the Japan Intercultural Institute. Certification requirements for each module: 1) Participation in 3 advanced module webinars 2) Completion of 3 online learning activities, 3) Peer presentation and reflection activity. There is no additional fee for certification option.
Cost: The Japan Intercultural Institute (JII) is a registered non-profit educational institute and attempts to keep the cost of the Masterclass as low as possible. Single module: 395€ (Early bird = 360€) Full course (three modules) = 995€ (Early bird = 930€ if registered by March 20)
Discounts: We are committed to making courses accessible to those who have limited financial resources. Individuals who live in lower GDP countries can apply for a discounted rate for the Masterclass. Please contact us for more information.
Register for Advanced Modules (open to previous Masterclass graduates only)