Intercultural Communicative Competence (ICC) is vital for international students in higher education, who often face challenges like language barriers and cultural differences. Investigating linguistic and non-linguistic factors influencing ICC development is crucial (Young & Schartner, 2014). This ongoing mixed-method longitudinal study examines the linguistic dimension of vocabulary knowledge and non-linguistic factors of social contact, impacting ICC among international students in one-year MA programs at UK universities (N=103). Quantitative data were collected using questionnaires, while qualitative insights were derived from interviews (N=22) during the academic year 22/23 (September, February, and the following July). The short form of the Multicultural Personality Questionnaire is used to measure ICC (Van der Zee et al., 2013). The significant contribution of this study lies in providing valuable insights into linguistic and non-linguistic factors that allow educators and institutions to devise effective strategies for enhancing ICC among international students. Quantitative findings reveal that Open-mindedness and Cultural Empathy significantly influence social contact with host nationals and multinational groups, with stronger correlations observed. The relationship between ICC and Vocabulary Knowledge is also emphasized. These results highlight the importance of fostering Open-mindedness and Cultural Empathy to improve Vocabulary Knowledge and interactions with host nationals and multinational peers. This research enables UK-based educators to better understand international students' strengths and challenges, facilitating intercultural communication between international and British students and assisting them in overcoming potential learning obstacles.

Authors:
Dunia Alghamdi, Newcastle University, United Kingdom
Alina Schartner, Newcastle University, United Kingdom

About the Presenter(s)
Ms Dunia Alghamdi is a University Doctoral Student at Newcastle University in United Kingdom

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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