According to Springer, Intercultural learning refers to the acquisition of knowledge and skills that support the ability of learners to both understand culture and interact with people from cultures different from their own. It is developmental in the sense that learners advance through stages of progressively more sophisticated levels of understanding.
This understanding includes that of different cultures as well as their own. Specifically, to develop cultural awareness. A learner needs to have this sense of cultural self-awareness, which will form the basis for comparisons that are inevitably made by the learner.
The concept of intercultural learning is an educational approach that can lead to social transformation. It allows folks from diverse cultural backgrounds to establish positive relations based on human rights values and principles that promote understanding of cultural differences.
In this article, we will explore the significance of intercultural education in a global society and its impact on various aspects of our lives.
It Helps Students Make New Connections
Social support networks are important when engaging in intercultural activities, such as study abroad programming. Interacting with local communities and individuals from diverse backgrounds is a fundamental principle of intercultural learning. Connecting with others offers companionship, guidance, and a sense of belonging that are essential for the well-being of students abroad.
Social and emotional intercultural skills can help students respond to difficult and unexpected situations in an emotionally regulated manner, enabling them to set out and develop strategies for dealing with difficult circumstances, and to interact and work with others to address issues.
It Improves the Overall Study Abroad Experience
Students studying abroad can benefit from intercultural learning, which is intensified by the development of cultural competence, facilitation of cross-cultural communication, fostering empathy, and supporting personal growth. Having these skills and knowledge can enable students to successfully navigate cross-cultural interactions, overcome challenges, and have a fulfilling and enriching experience abroad.
Several studies have shown that students who had taken an intercultural communication course before their international experience developed their cultural knowledge more strongly during and after their international experience than students who had not taken such a course. Additionally, three cross-cultural personality measurements were found to be increased, including cultural empathy, open-mindedness, and social initiative.
Gain New Skills
Intercultural skill sets involve flexibility, problem-solving, adaptability, critical thinking, and curiosity. The development of problem-solving skills is particularly useful in the workplace, where the mix of cultures can require you to find a new approach to resolving issues. Developing these skills can help you deal with challenges and solve them more effectively by considering all the possibilities.
It May Decrease the Effects of Cultural Shock
Culture shock refers to feelings of uncertainty, confusion, or anxiety that people may experience when moving to a new country or experiencing a new culture or surroundings. This cultural adjustment is normal and is the result of being in an unfamiliar environment.
So, culture shock and homesickness can be common reactions to moving to a new country for students. Learning about other cultures, their values, traditions, and social norms is an important part of intercultural learning. By understanding the new cultural environment, they can reduce stress and promote a smoother adjustment.
Understanding how people from different cultures communicate and process information is essential in minimizing misunderstandings when you observe their actions and listen without judgment.
Read Also: Navigating Cultural Differences When Studying Abroad: Tips for Intercultural Sensitivity
Moving to a new country or establishing an international company often leads to cultural shocks, which can challenge teams. Intercultural learning has become increasingly important in our interconnected world, enabling individuals and organizations to comprehend, appreciate, and adapt to diverse cultures. Therefore, Embracing curiosity, cultural perspective shifting, and a complex understanding of diversity allows us to bridge cultural gaps and build a more inclusive and interconnected society.
