logo logo International Journal of Educational Methodology

IJEM is a leading, peer-reviewed, open access, research journal that provides an online forum for studies in education, by and for scholars and practitioners, worldwide.

Subscribe to

Receive Email Alerts

for special events, calls for papers, and professional development opportunities.

Subscribe

Publisher (HQ)

RHAPSODE
Eurasian Society of Educational Research
College House, 2nd Floor 17 King Edwards Road, Ruislip, London, HA4 7AE, UK
RHAPSODE
Headquarters
College House, 2nd Floor 17 King Edwards Road, Ruislip, London, HA4 7AE, UK
Research Article

Exploring the Relationship Between Language competence and Intercultural Communicative Competence Among English as a Foreign language Learners: A Mixed-Methods Study

Meina Feng , Muhammad Noor Bin Abdul Aziz , Dalib Syarizan

This study explores the relationship between language competence and intercultural communicative competence (ICC) among English as a Foreign Language .

T

This study explores the relationship between language competence and intercultural communicative competence (ICC) among English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners through a mixed-methods approach. A sample of 196 Chinese EFL learners was divided into three proficiency groups (low, intermediate, and high), with data collected through Likert-scale questionnaires and semi-structured interviews involving 16 participants. Quantitative analysis revealed that higher language proficiency is linked to improved overall ICC scores and its specific dimensions. The Kruskal-Wallis H test confirmed significant differences in overall ICC, attitude, and skill across proficiency levels, with attitude showing the strongest effect. Spearman's correlation analysis demonstrated small but significant positive correlations between English proficiency and overall ICC, attitude, and skill. Qualitative findings further enriched the quantitative results, emphasizing the foundational and catalytic role of language competence in enhancing ICC and its dimensions. However, participants acknowledged that language competence alone is insufficient for fully successful intercultural interactions. This study expands Byram’s model by offering detailed insights into the intricate relationship between language competence and various ICC dimensions. The study recommends that to fully cultivate ICC, it is essential to integrate the development of language competence into instructional practices.

Keywords: Intercultural communicative competence, language competence, relationship, mixed-methods, Chinese EFL learners.

cloud_download PDF
Cite
Article Metrics
Views
63
Download
157
Citations
Crossref
0

References

Arasaratnam, L., Banerjee, S., & Dembek, K. (2010). The integrated model of intercultural communication competence (IMICC): Model test. Australian Journal of Communication, 37(3), 103-116. https://bit.ly/3YWJq8T

Arasaratnam, L. A., & Banerjee, S. C. (2011). Sensation seeking and intercultural communication competence: A model test. International Journal of Intercultural Relations, 35(2), 226-233. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijintrel.2010.07.003

Arasaratnam-Smith, L. A. (2017). Intercultural competence: An overview. In D. K. Deardorff & Arasaratnam-Smith, L. (Eds.), Intercultural competence in higher education: International approaches, assessment and application (pp. 7-19). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315529257-2

Bennett, J. M., & Bennett, M. J. (2004). Developing intercultural sensitivity. In J. M. Bennett, M. J. Bennett, & D. Landis (Eds.). Handbook of intercultural training (3rd ed.) (pp. 147-165). Sage. https://doi.org/10.4135/9781452231129.n6

Bennett, J. M., Bennett, M. J., & Allen, W. (2003). Developing intercultural competence in the language classroom. In D. Lange, & M. Paige (Eds.), Culture as the core: Perspectives on culture in second language learning (pp. 237-270). Information Age Publishing.

Bennett, M. J. (2017). Developmental model of intercultural sensitivity. In The international encyclopedia of intercultural communication. Wiley. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118783665.ieicc0182

Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77-101. https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa

Byram, M. (1997). Teaching and assessing intercultural communicative competence. Multilingual Matters. https://spada.uns.ac.id/pluginfile.php/253332/mod_resource/content/1/ICC%20Byram.pdf

Byram, M. (2002). On being ‘bicultural’ and ‘intercultural’. In G. Alred, M. Byram, & M. Fleming (Eds.), Intercultural experience and education (pp. 50-66). Multilingual Matters. https://doi.org/10.21832/9781853596087-007

Byram, M. (2009). The intercultural speaker and the pedagogy of foreign language education. In D. K. Deardorff (Ed.), The SAGE handbook of intercultural competence (pp.321-332). Sage.  https://doi.org/10.4135/9781071872987.n18

Byram, M. (2021). Teaching and assessing intercultural communicative competence (3rd ed.). Multilingual Matters. https://doi.org/10.21832/9781800410251

Byram, M., Gribkova, B., & Starkey, H. (2002). Developing the intercultural dimension in language teaching: A practical introduction for teachers. Language Policy Division, Directorate of School, Out-of-School and Higher Education, Council of Europe. https://rm.coe.int/16802fc1c3

Caligiuri, P., & Tarique, I. (2012). Dynamic cross-cultural competencies and global leadership effectiveness. Journal of world Business47(4), 612-622. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwb.2012.01.014

Corbett, J. (2022). An intercultural approach to English language teaching. Multilingual matters. https://doi.org/10.21832/9781788928625

Creswell, J. W., & Poth, C. N. (2018). Qualitative inquiry and research design: Choosing among five approaches (4th ed.). Sage.

Dalib, S. (2014). Intercultural competence: A phenomenological study of students' intercultural experience in Universiti Utara Malaysia [Doctoral dissertation, Universiti Utara Malaysia]. Universiti Utara Malaysia Library. https://etd.uum.edu.my/5354/1/s93280.pdf

 Dalib, S., Harun, M., Yusof, N., & Ahmad, M. K. (2019). Exploring intercultural competence among students in Malaysian campuses. Jurnal Komunikasi: Malaysian Journal of Communication35(1), 1-16. https://doi.org/10.17576/JKMJC-2019-3501-01

Deardorff, D. K. (2006). Identification and assessment of intercultural competence as a student outcome of internationalization. Journal of Studies in International Education, 10(3), 241-266. https://doi.org/10.1177/1028315306287002  

Dimitrova-Gyuzeleva, S. (2019). Developing intеrcultural communicative compеtence - the two sides of the coin. Educational Role of Language Journal, 2019-2(2), 15-25. https://doi.org/10.36534/erlj.2019.02.02

Fantini, A. E. (2012). Language: An essential component of intercultural communicative competence. In J. Jackson (Ed.), Handbook of Language and Intercultural Communication (pp.263-278). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203805640

Fantini, A. E. (2020). Reconceptualizing intercultural communicative competence: A multinational perspective. Research in Comparative and International Education15(1), 52-61. https://doi.org/10.1177/1745499920901948

Fantini, A. E. (2021). Intercultural communicative competence: A necessary ability for all. World Learning Publications, 4, 1-18. https://bit.ly/4e4fJHp

Ghasemi Mighani, M., Yazdanimoghaddam, M., & Mohseni, A. (2020). Interculturalizing English language teaching: An attempt to build up intercultural communicative competence in English majors through an intercultural course. Journal of Modern Research in English Language Studies, 7(2), 77-100. https://doi.org/10.30479/jmrels.2020.11474.1426

Higgins, J., & Siritararatn, N. (2022). A development of a teaching module for enhancing interactional and intercultural competence of aviation undergraduate students. LEARN Journal: Language Education and Acquisition Research Network15(1), 775-808. https://bit.ly/3NSRQYA

Hismanoglu, M. (2011). An investigation of ELT students’ intercultural communicative competence in relation to linguistic proficiency, overseas experience and formal instruction. International Journal of Intercultural Relations35(6), 805-817. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijintrel.2011.09.001

Hoff, H. E. (2020). The evolution of intercultural communicative competence: Conceptualisations, critiques and consequences for 21st century classroom practice. Intercultural Communication Education, 3(2), 55-74. https://doi.org/10.29140/ice.v3n2.264

Huang, L.-J. D. (2021). Developing intercultural communicative competence in foreign language classrooms - A study of EFL learners in Taiwan. International Journal of Intercultural Relations, 83, 55-66. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijintrel.2021.04.015

Jackson, J. (2020). Introducing language and intercultural communication (2nd ed.). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781351059275

Kim, Y. Y. (2009). The identity factor in intercultural competence. In D. K. Deardorff (Ed.), The SAGE handbook of intercultural competence (pp. 53-62). Sage. https://doi.org/10.4135/9781071872987.n2

Kohli Bagwe, T., & Haskollar, E. (2020). Variables impacting intercultural competence: A systematic literature review. Journal of Intercultural Communication Research, 49(4), 346-371. https://doi.org/10.1080/17475759.2020.1771751

Kramsch, C. (2013). Culture in foreign language teaching. Iranian Journal of Language Teaching Research, 1(1), 57-78.  https://bit.ly/3NVJO1g

LaRocco, M. J. F. (2011). International teaching assistants and the essence of the development of intercultural competence [Doctoral dissertation, University of Rhode Island]. University of Rhode Island. https://doi.org/10.28971/212011LM110

Li, L. (2021). An examination of Chinese private college students' intercultural competence (Publication No. 28498607) [Doctoral dissertation, Chapman University]. ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global. https://bit.ly/3CdlDIX

Liao, H., & Li, L. (2023). Facilitating EFL learners’ intercultural competence through culturally responsive teaching in oral English classrooms. System, 115, Article 103070. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.system.2023.103070

Liddicoat, A. J., & Scarino, A. (2013). Intercultural language teaching and learning. John Wiley & Sons. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118482070

Menglikhanovna, N. S. (2024). Enhancing language competence through cultural diversity: Exploring EFL teaching strategies in Kazakhstan. Eurasian Science Review, 2(2), 143-148. https://doi.org/10.63034/esr-52

Miauw, C. W., & Guo, Y.-H. (2021). Taiwanese EFL learners’ English proficiency, intercultural competence, and willingness to communicate. Journal on English as a Foreign Language, 11(2), 227-249. https://doi.org/10.23971/jefl.v11i2.3126

Mu, Y., & Yu, B. (2021). Chinese college students’ intercultural competence: Current situation, barriers and solutions. Journal of Intercultural Communication, 21(2), 44-57. https://doi.org/10.36923/jicc.v21i2.13

Mu, Y., & Yu, B. (2023). Developing intercultural competence in college business English students: A study of innovative teaching in China. International Journal of Intercultural Relations, 92, Article 101747. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijintrel.2022.101747

Munezane, Y. (2021). A new model of intercultural communicative competence: Bridging language classrooms and intercultural communicative contexts. Studies in Higher Education, 46(8), 1664-1681. https://doi.org/10.1080/03075079.2019.1698537

Nadeem, M. U., Mohammed, R., & Dalib, S. (2017). A proposed model of intercultural communication competence (ICC) in Malaysian context. International Journal of Educational Research Review, 2(2), 11-20. https://doi.org/10.24331/ijere.327470

Nadeem, M. U., Mohammed, R., & Dalib, S. (2020). Influence of sensation seeking on intercultural communication competence of international students in a Malaysian university: Attitude as a mediator. International Journal of Intercultural Relations74, 30-41. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijintrel.2019.10.006

Nieto, C., & Zoller Booth, M. (2010). Cultural competence: Its influence on the teaching and learning of international students. Journal of Studies in International Education, 14(4), 406-425. https://doi.org/10.1177/1028315309337929

Peng, R. Z., Fu, R. R., & Wu, W. P. (2020). 新时代背景下跨文化外语教学理论模型和实践模型研究 [Research on theoretical and practical models of cross-cultural foreign language teaching in the new era]. Foreign Language World, 4, 45-53. https://bit.ly/4erSUxj

Peng, R.-Z., Wu, W.-P., & Fan, W.-W. (2015). A comprehensive evaluation of Chinese college students’ intercultural competence. International Journal of Intercultural Relations, 47, 143-157. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ijintrel.2015.04.003 

Richter, N. F., Schlaegel, C., Taras, V., Alon, I., & Bird, A. (2023). Reviewing half a century of measuring cross-cultural competence: Aligning theoretical constructs and empirical measures. International Business Review, 32(4), Article 102122. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ibusrev.2023.102122 

Sarwari, A. Q., & Abdul Wahab, M. N. (2018). A study on the relationship between English language proficiency and intercultural communication competence among Arab students in Malaysia. Arab World English Journal (AWEJ), 9(1), 419-432. https://doi.org/10.24093/awej/vol9no1.29

Seidman, I. (2006). Interviewing as qualitative research: A guide for researchers in education and the social sciences (3rd ed.). Teachers College Press.

Sercu, L. (2023). Internationalization at home as a factor affecting intercultural competence. A study among Belgian university students. European Journal of Higher Education, 13(4), 536-557. https://doi.org/10.1080/21568235.2022.2094815

Shaules, J. P. (2016). The developmental model of linguaculture learning: An integrated approach to language and culture pedagogy. Juntendo Journal of Global Studies, 1(1), 2-17.

Sobkowiak, P. (2019). On the factors influencing EFL students’ intercultural competence. Studia Anglica Posnaniensia, 54(1), 133-156. https://doi.org/10.2478/stap-2019-0007

Spencer-Oatey, H., & Franklin, P. (2009). Intercultural interaction: A multidisciplinary approach to intercultural communication. Springer. https://doi.org/10.1057/9780230244511

Spitzberg, B. H. (1996). A model of intercultural communication competence. In L. A. Samovar & R. E. Porter (Eds.), Intercultural communication: A reader (8th ed., pp. 379-391). Wadsworth Publishing.

Sun, Y. Z. (2016). 外语教育与跨文化能力培养 [Foreign language education and intercultural competence development]. China Foreign Languages, 3, 17-22.

Tajeddin, Z., Khanlarzadeh, N., & Ghanbar, H. (2022). Learner variables in the development of intercultural competence: A synthesis of home and study abroad research. Studies in Second Language Learning and Teaching12(2), 261-301. https://doi.org/10.14746/ssllt.2022.12.2.5

Toyoda, E. (2016). Intercultural knowledge, awareness and skills observed in a foreign language classroom. Intercultural Education27(6), 505-516.https://doi.org/10.1080/14675986.2016.1256600

Tran, T. Q., & Seepho, S. (2016). An intercultural communicative competence model for EFL learners. In The 4th TESOL Conference Proceedings 2016: Teaching Methodologies and Learning Outcomes (pp. 27-42). Publishing House of Economics.

Wang, Q., & Teo, T. (2024). Explaining the relationships among components of intercultural competence: A structural equation modelling approach. International Journal of Intercultural Relations, 99, Article 101953. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijintrel.2024.101953

Wang, Y., & Kulich, S. J. (2015). Does context count? Developing and assessing intercultural competence through an interview- and model-based domestic course design in China. International Journal of Intercultural Relations, 48, 38-57. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijintrel.2015.03.013

Weng, I.-J. J. (2018). Predicting Taiwanese college studentsintercultural sensitivity: What truly matters? The Asian Journal of Applied Linguistics, 5(2), 240-253. https://bit.ly/4eqaaDc

Wu, J.-F. (2016). Impact of foreign language proficiency and English uses on intercultural sensitivity. International Journal of Modern Education and Computer Science, 8(8), 28-35. https://doi.org/10.5815/ijmecs.2016.08.04

Wu, W.-P., Fan, W.-W., & Peng, R.-Z. (2013). 中国大学生跨文化能力维度及评价量表分析 [An analysis of the assessment tools for Chinese college students’ intercultural communicative competence]. Foreign Language Teaching and Research, 45(4), 581-592. https://bit.ly/4fDgqbE  

Wu, X., Tao, J., Zhu, L., Lin, J., & Jiang, H. (2024). The acquisition of intercultural competence among international and domestic students in China through an internationalisation at home programme. Language and Intercultural Communication. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/14708477.2024.2326122 

Yu, Q., & Van Maele, J. (2018). Fostering intercultural awareness in a Chinese English reading class. Chinese Journal of Applied Linguistics41(3), 357-375.https://doi.org/10.1515/cjal-2018-0027

Zhang, H. L., & Wu, S. Q. (2022). 外语教育中的跨文化能力教学参考框架研制 [Development of a reference framework for teaching intercultural competence in foreign language education]. Foreign Language World, 5, 2-11.

Zhang, H. L., & Yao, C. (2020). 建构中国学生跨文化能力发展一体化模型 [Constructing an integrated model for the development of Chinese students' intercultural ability]. Foreign Language World, (4), 35-44.

Zhou, Y., & Burhanudeen, H. (2023). Sustaining intercultural contact: Developing the intercultural communicative competence of EFL undergraduates in China. Journal of Intercultural Communication, 23(4), 13-26. https://doi.org/10.36923/jicc.v23i4.281

...