Becoming a Global Citizen: Traditional and New Paths to Intercultural Competence

The modern world is becoming increasingly interconnected, requiring new approaches to education to prepare students for this global landscape. This book examined the lived experiences of 12 former high school students who participated in an exchange trip to Argentina to develop intercultural competency.

Format: Hardback
Length: 104 pages
Publication date: 12 February 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The interconnectedness of the modern world is astounding, with advancements occurring at an unprecedented rate. The global exchange of goods, services, news, ideas, and cultural practices has opened up a vast array of intercultural experiences for individuals, enabling them to immerse themselves in diverse cultures and perspectives. This evolving global landscape presents both challenges and opportunities, necessitating the development of new approaches to education that equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this dynamic environment.

To address this need, this book adopts a case study approach, examining the lived experiences of 12 former high school students who participated in an exchange trip to Argentina. The students were chosen based on their demonstrated interest in intercultural competency development and their willingness to embrace new challenges. Through their experiences, the book explores the ethical and spiritual dimensions of intercultural exchange, highlighting the importance of empathy, respect, and understanding in building cross-cultural relationships.

The exchange trip to Argentina provided the students with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a different culture, learn about its history, traditions, and values, and develop their intercultural skills. The students encountered various challenges throughout their journey, such as language barriers, cultural differences, and personal adjustments. However, they also experienced significant growth and learning, building valuable relationships with people from different backgrounds and gaining a deeper appreciation for the diversity of the world.

One of the key findings of the book is that intercultural competency development is not just about acquiring knowledge and skills but also about fostering a sense of empathy and compassion for others. The students learned that by putting themselves in the shoes of others, they were able to develop a deeper understanding of their own culture and values, as well as the cultures and values of others. This empathy and compassion enabled them to build strong relationships and work effectively in teams, regardless of their cultural backgrounds.

Another important aspect of intercultural competency development is the importance of cultural humility. The students recognized that they had a lot to learn from the people they encountered in Argentina and that they were not experts in the culture or the language. They were open to learning from others and were willing to adapt their own practices and perspectives to better understand and engage with the culture.

The book also explores the ethical and spiritual dimensions of intercultural exchange, highlighting the importance of respecting and honoring the cultures and traditions of others. The students learned that by engaging with people from different backgrounds, they were able to gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of the world and the interconnectedness of all human beings. They also recognized that there are universal values and principles that transcend cultural boundaries, such as respect for human rights, dignity, and equality.

In conclusion, the interconnectedness of the modern world has created a new global situation that requires new approaches to education. This book examines the lived experiences of 12 former high school students who participated in an exchange trip to Argentina, highlighting the ethical and spiritual dimensions of intercultural exchange. By fostering empathy, respect, and understanding, and promoting cultural humility, students can develop the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this dynamic environment. The book also emphasizes the importance of respecting and honoring the cultures and traditions of others, recognizing that there are universal values and principles that transcend cultural boundaries. As we navigate the complexities of the global landscape, it is essential that we educate students to be responsible global citizens who can contribute positively to the world.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781475870527