Vietnamese International Students in Offshore Programs: Engagement in Intercultural Communicative Competence and Intercultural Sensitivity

• In Event: International Lens on Culturally Responsive Teaching

Abstract

This mixed-method study explores the intercultural communicative competence (ICC) and intercultural sensitivity (IS) of Vietnamese international students who participated in offshore programs. A group of 164 students were examined. The students studied abroad at several universities overseas, and then returned to their Vietnamese university, as part of an offshore program between a Vietnam university and partnered universities overseas. The quantitative and qualitative results altogether suggested there are relationships between three ICC constructs, with each construct being differently valued by students. Students located across three different continents placed importance on the five elements of IS. Although students most valued respect for cultural differences, their growth in IS seemed to contribute to their ICC levels. Discussions and implications will be presented.

Author

• Ngoc-Tung Vu, University at Albany - SUNY