F O R E I G N L A N G U A G E T E A C H I N G M E T H O D O L O G Y

Abstract

The capability to use cultural cues in order to function effectively in culturally diverse situations has been measured by the fashionable concept of cultural intelligence (CQ) and its four dimensions (metacognitive CQ, cognitive CQ, motivational CQ and behavioral CQ) in a lot of previous studies and research. This capability is an important asset of the competitive portfolio for almost all companies in today's globalized world. Our study builds on a recent intensive research and brings anew the issue of CQ into the Czech environment. Specifically, the relationship between language skills and cultural intelligence is examined. Using the PLS – SEM statistical method, a sample of 100 respondents studying in the English BA program at one Czech private university and coming from different countries (mostly from China) was analyzed to demonstrate that there was a positive correlation between foreign language proficiency and all dimensions of CQ. On the contrary, another hypothesis (proposed in one previous study) was not confirmed: purposeful preparation for a language exam and its successful passing does not stimulate the development of the motivational (or any other) dimension of CQ or, in any case, no significant difference was found between the two groups of those who possess a language certificate and those who do not.