EFL TEACHERS’ PERCEPTIONS AND PRACTICES OF CULTIVATING INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION COMPETENCE (ICC) FOR YOUNG LEARNERS IN QUANG TRI
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Abstract
In recent years, ICC has emerged as a crucial component in language education, often referred to as the "fifth skill" alongside the traditional language skills. However, relatively few studies have focused on investigating the cultivation of ICC for primary school students. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of investigating the perceptions and practices of primary school teachers in cultivating ICC for YLs. The study employed semi-structured interviews and classroom observations as data collection methods, involving 10 primary school teachers from a mountainous district in Quang Tri Province, Vietnam. The findings revealed that teachers have a rather basic understanding of ICC and its importance for YLs in the modern era. However, the observed practices demonstrated a significant gap between teachers' perceptions and the actual implementation of ICC cultivation for YLs. In practice, the cultivation of ICC remained limited, with teachers mainly using simple, age-appropriate materials. The role of the teacher was proactive in guiding and cultivating ICC through the few organized activities. Nevertheless, several influential factors were mentioned by the participating teachers, which affected their intentions and the effectiveness of cultivating ICC for YLs.
Keywords: EFL teachers, perceptions, practices, ICC, YLs.
Keywords
EFL teachers, perceptions, practices, ICC, YLs.
Article Details
References
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