Retesting integrated model of intercultural communication competence (IMICC) on international students from the Asian context of Malaysia

Abstract

Intercultural communication competence (ICC) is a need of today, for those who live in multicultural societies and have frequent interactions with culturally different individuals. It is strongly recommended to retest the integrated model of intercultural communication competence (IMICC) among multiple cultural perspectives. For this reason, this study adopted IMICC, retested it on the Asian context of Malaysia. The research employed a survey technique and collected data from 300 international students of a public university. The theoretical model of the research was analyzed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Most of the established paths of IMICC were supported. The findings show sensation seeking and attitude toward other culture (ATOC) directly influenced ICC. The mediating effect of ATOC was empirically justified through the findings. Nevertheless, the mediating effect of motivation to engage in intercultural communication (MTEIIC) towards sensation seeking and ethnocentrism with ICC was not established. The results are promising; however, it is the initial step toward the validation of IMICC on the Asian context. The research practically contributes usage of the model to the policymakers in order to develop future strategies/policies for international students. Further refinement and retesting of the model are necessary for future studies.