Honors Student to Present at 14th Annual Globalization, Diversity, and Education Conference

Nam Nguyen will present their abstract “How Studying Abroad Influences Cross-Cultural Communication Skills in Terms of Adaptability and Sensitivity?” at the 14th Annual Globalization, Diversity, and Education Conference in Airway Heights, WA, hosted by College of Education at Washington State University. The theme for the conference this year is Power and Cultural Politics in Antiracist and Decolonial Education and Educational Research: Intersectionality, Resistance, and Survival.

Abstract: Recent years, the number of American students studying abroad is consistently increasing. The Institute of International Education revealed that approximately 325,339 American students studied abroad during the academic year 2015-16. Studying abroad is useful for the American students in terms of enhancing their prospects in the global market. Moreover, these students are redefining American values and discrediting stereotypes. Studying abroad enables them to be a part of widespread global professional networks. They have the opportunity to learn about global issues further effectively. Studying abroad allows American students to understand different cultures and ability to learn new languages. These skills are essential to secure a job in any multinational enterprises in the current era of viral globalization. Cross-cultural communication skills are crucial in terms of developing global connections, expanding and diversifying trade relationships, upholding the values of openness and tolerance, and succeeding as employees and entrepreneurs in the future. However, many American students often struggle to develop such cross-cultural communication skills in terms of adaptability and sensitivity. The research mainly focuses on addressing these challenges using the Cross-Cultural Adaptability Inventory and the Intercultural Sensitivity Index. A primary research will be conducted based on Triangulation methodology (Quantitative + Qualitative) to address the research questions that focus on evaluating cross-cultural adaptability and sensitivity. A quantitative survey will be conducted on American students studying abroad to understand their perceptions on developing cross-cultural communication skills. Few professors of foreign universities will be interviewed to collect qualitative information on the challenges and probable solutions to enhance cross-cultural adaptability and sensitivity. The research is expected to: conclude that the American students studying abroad exhibit superior intercultural communication skills compared to the students who don’t study abroad and confirm that most of the American students often face difficulties to develop cross-cultural communication skills due to cultural differences.

For more information, visit the Globalization, Diversity, and Education Conference website