Advanced Learners’ Intercultural Experience Through Computer-Enhanced Technology: A Study of Polish and Romanian Students

Abstract

In today’s globalized world, the development of intercultural competence, which includes concepts such as cultural knowledge, curiosity about “otherness”, intercultural sensitivity and openness to other cultures, is considered one of the basic objectives of education, including foreign language (L2) education. Computer-based technologies, embracing various forms of computer-mediated communication (CMC), appear to be particularly useful in promoting an intercultural approach, as they provide L2 users with opportunities to access cultural information and engage in authentic intercultural exchanges with other L2 users. The article reports the findings of a study that investigated whether and to what extent advanced EFL learners, English majors from Poland and Romania, made use of information and communication technology (ICT) to enhance their intercultural experience. The results indicate declared high levels of ICT use to get information about the culture of English-speaking countries, but also enhanced interest in other cultures, openness to cultural differences and willingness to communicate with foreigners through CMC. On the basis of the findings, conclusions are drawn about the potential benefits of online experience for the development of L2 learners’ intercultural awareness, although intercultural training within formal instruction is needed to better prepare learners for pursuing intercultural competence development through online resources.