Short-Term Student Exchanges and Intercultural Learning

Short-term student exchanges can offer valuable opportunities for intercultural learning and communication, but research and practices often overlook the learning opportunities in culturally and linguistically diverse settings. This Element proposes a perspective that reflects this diversity and encompasses intercultural awareness, intercultural citizenship education, and Global Englishes.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 07 December 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Student exchange programs provide a unique platform for intercultural learning and engagement, particularly in the context of English as the language focus. While research and educational practices often emphasize interactions with local individuals in the target culture as the primary means of intercultural learning, they overlook the significant learning opportunities that arise from engaging in culturally and linguistically diverse settings. This Element seeks to challenge these assumptions by proposing a perspective that embraces the diversity of international exchange experiences and encompasses the intercultural learning model of intercultural awareness, intercultural citizenship education, and Global Englishes.

Intercultural learning is a complex process that involves more than just exposure to different cultures. It requires a deep understanding of cultural norms, values, and beliefs, as well as the ability to communicate effectively across cultural boundaries. Student exchange programs provide an ideal environment for developing intercultural awareness and citizenship education. By living and studying in a foreign culture, students gain a firsthand experience of the challenges and rewards of living in a diverse society. They learn to appreciate the similarities and differences between cultures, develop empathy and compassion for others, and become more open-minded and tolerant.

In addition to intercultural awareness, student exchange programs also promote the development of Global Englishes. Global Englishes is a term used to describe the variety of English languages spoken around the world, including Standard English, British English, American English, and other regional varieties. These languages are not mutually exclusive, but rather are interconnected and influenced by each other. By studying and communicating in Global Englishes, students gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and linguistic diversity of the world and develop the skills necessary to communicate effectively in a globalized world.

One of the key challenges of intercultural learning and engagement is the issue of language barriers. While English is widely spoken in many parts of the world, it is not the native language of all participants in student exchange programs. This can create difficulties in communication and understanding, particularly for students who are not proficient in English. However, by promoting the use of Global Englishes and providing opportunities for language learning and exchange, student exchange programs can help to overcome these barriers and promote intercultural understanding.

In conclusion, student exchange programs offer a valuable opportunity for intercultural learning and engagement, particularly in the context of English as the language focus. By embracing the diversity of international exchange experiences and promoting the intercultural learning model of intercultural awareness, intercultural citizenship education, and Global Englishes, student exchange programs can help students develop the skills necessary to thrive in a globalized world.

ISBN-13: 9781009356657