Faculty Members' Intercultural Competence in Teaching International Students: A Literature Review

• In Event: Teaching International Students: Cultural Adaptation and Lived Experiences

Abstract

Using Deardorff’s Pyramid Model of Intercultural Competence, this article examines university faculty members’ intercultural competence regarding attitude, knowledge, and skill level when teaching international students. Through an analysis of pertinent literature, the article concludes that the majority of faculty maintain an overall positive attitude toward international students, but many factors can affect their attitudes. Although faculty members know cultural differences and can identify challenges for international students, faculty perceptions may not fully correspond with students’ perceptions. Regarding skill level, faculty can employ various strategies to engage international students. However, some of them have concerns regarding fairness for domestic students.

Author

• Xiaowen Chen, George Mason University