A Study on the Factors Affecting the Intercultural Sensitivity of Middle and High School Students in Korea

Abstract

This study measures and analyzes the intercultural sensitivity of middle and high school students in Korea, using the scale developed by Chen and Starosta. By looking into the effects of different variables (gender, age, location, and level of multicultural experience), the study aims to provide insights into the intercultural sensitivity of the students, which can serve as useful guide in developing and managing multicultural programs at school. The study is based on 450 responses submitted by students in Seoul and Kyungki province, Korea. The results of the multiple regression analysis show that the students' intercultural sensitivity is affected differentially by individual variables, and that there is a high correlation between the students' level of intercultural sensitivity and their level of multicultural experience. This suggests that it is important to provide the opportunities for the students to engage and interact with different cultures in order to develop and nurture their intercultural sensitivity.