Students' Perceptions and Representation of Cultural Diversity: A Study Carried Out in Spain

• In Event: 16.059 - Poster Session 2
  In Poster Session: 16.059-11 - Expanding Global Perspectives

Abstract

Students’ perceptions and attitudes toward cultural differences as reflected in the processes of intercultural communication in culturally diverse classrooms were examined. A multiple-case study design was used to interview students from diverse cultural backgrounds enrolled in elementary (n = 14) and secondary (n = 30) multicultural schools around the province of Alicante, Spain. Results showed that communication among cultures is complex and can be characterized by feelings of isolation, need for social acknowledgement, and attitudes of avoidance. Results also showed evidence of stereotypes about the learning potential of students from immigrant origin leading to the need to model and change students’ representation of cultural differences.

Key words: Intercultural communication; elementary and secondary students; cultural diversity; multicultural classrooms; Spain

Authors

• Cristina M. Cardona, University of Alicante

• Susan V. Sanhueza-Henríquez

• Miguel Friz-Carrillo, University of Bio-Bio, Chile

• Esther Chiner-Sanz, University of Alicante

• Rakel Del Frago, University of the Basque Country