Intercultural communication as the basis for effective teaching of foreign languages

Abstract

The article examines the role and importance of intercultural communication in the process of learning a foreign language at university. Intercultural interaction is viewed as a source of formation and development of professional and personal qualities of students, intercultural competency and interethnic tolerance, as a means of overcoming communication difficulties in situations of foreign language communication. In modern society, in the context of digitalisation, the development of informational and social networks, with the introduction of distance education, intercultural foreign language communication is considered an indispensable part of life and learning. It is characterised by an intensive exchange of information, values and experience, by networking and maintaining contacts, and developing cooperation. Intercultural dialogue allows students to expand their knowledge of cultural characteristics, traditions, etiquette and customs of people living in different countries; to understand and accept the linguistic and cultural diversity of communication partners; to improve their skills and abilities; to use language and speech means, choose strategies and tactics of behaviour and communication in order to achieve mutual understanding and goals following the communicative task and communicative situation. Reliance on intercultural communication in the process of learning foreign languages contributes to the interiorisation of new knowledge, the development of social activity, creativity and mobility of students, increases the motivation to learn a foreign language, inspires the use of new interesting psychological and pedagogic forms in studies and work, allowing effective interaction in a multicultural environment.