The rapid expansion of multicultural interactions has heightened the need for Cultural Diversity Awareness (CDA) and Intercultural Communicative Competence (ICC) in language education. Foreign language instruction must extend beyond linguistic proficiency to include cultural learning, enabling learners to become effective intercultural speakers. International schools, growing in number due to globalisation, claim to foster ICC while offering internationally recognised diplomas. However, further investigation is needed to assess how effectively they integrate culture learning and how students internalise CDA and ICC.
This study, part of a larger research project, examines the development of CDA and ICC among 11 students from Year Groups 7, 8, and 9 (Key Stage 3: ages 12–14) at an international school in Budapest, where English serves as the medium of instruction (EMI). A non-probability purposive sampling method was used to select students with at least one year of international school experience to ensure exposure to intercultural learning. The researcher’s established relationship with the students and parents informed the decision to focus on Key Stage 3. The participants, from Asia, America, Europe, and the Middle East, had international school experience ranging from one to eleven years. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews and analysed using thematic analysis.
Findings indicate that while students exhibit cultural awareness, the depth of ICC development varies based on personal experiences, curriculum exposure, and extracurricular activities. Some demonstrate strong intercultural adaptability, while others struggle to apply theoretical knowledge.
Implications highlight the need for experiential learning, reflective practices, and curriculum adjustments to enhance ICC development.

Authors:
Songul Dogan Ger, Eötvös Loránd University and Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Hungary

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Songul Dogan Ger currently teaches at Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest, Hungary and is working on an MSCA PF proposal on critical intercultural education.

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/songul-dogan-ger-13903137

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Songul-Dogan-Ger?ev=hdr_xprf

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