International Journal of Modern Education and Computer Science (IJMECS)
IJMECS Vol. 8, No. 8, 8 Aug. 2016
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Impact of Foreign Language Proficiency and English Uses on Intercultural Sensitivity
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Author(s)
Jia-Fen Wu
1,*
Index Terms
English proficiency, Frequency of English uses, Foreign language proficiency, intercultural sensitivity, socio-linguistic competences
Abstract
The main purpose of this study was to examine the impact of English uses and English proficiency on inter-cultural sensitivity among 292 Taiwanese participants. Results indicate that there is a significant differential level of English uses across three groups of the participants (high, moderate and low frequency of English uses). Post-hoc comparison indicated that high-frequency English usesrs have significantly higher inter-cultural sensitivity than moderate and low-frequency users. However, the results do not support the hypothesized linkage between foreign language proficiency and inter-cultural sensitivity. The implications from these findings suggest that the frequency of English uses will better equip EFL learners with sufficient socio-linguistic competences and communicative skills compared with English proficiency. Moreover, inter-cultural sensitivity is a skill learned through authentic interaction in an intercultural context. Thus, the MOF in Taiwan should rethink of washback effect of the English Benchmark Policy.
Cite This Paper
Jia-Fen Wu, "Impact of Foreign Language Proficiency and English Uses on Intercultural Sensitivity", International Journal of Modern Education and Computer Science(IJMECS), Vol.8, No.8, pp.28-35, 2016. DOI:10.5815/ijmecs.2016.08.04
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