Faculty Members’ Intercultural Competence in Teaching International Students: A Survey Study

• In Event: Transforming STEM Departments: Institutional Change for Equity and Inclusion

Abstract

This study investigates international students' (ISs) perceptions of faculty members' intercultural teaching competence (ITC). Utilizing sociocultural theory and the ITC model, the study aims to develop a valid and reliable instrument and then analyze how ISs perceive faculty members' ITC. A total of 198 international students from 21 countries participated in the survey. The findings reveal that while students generally perceive faculty members as competent in various areas of ITC, specific improvements are needed, particularly in avoiding cultural assumptions, enhancing understanding of diverse learning styles, diversifying assessment methods, and integrating students' cultural backgrounds into the curriculum.

Author

• Xiaowen Chen, George Mason University