This paper reports on a research project that examined nonnative Southampton University (England) students' attitudes to continued language learning and the importance of language learning and cultural adaptation. A survey was administered to pre-sessional and in-sessional students that included information on background, past and present language…

A study investigated the application of Geert Hofstede's theory of cultural dimensions in management to the situation of Malaysian (n=8) and American (n=4) instructors in implementing a new English-as-a-Second-Language curriculum in Malaysia. American and Malaysian cultures are compared on four dimensions: social differentiation by gender; desire…

It is argued that in the culturally rich communities developing in the United States, educators can do much more to develop literacy programs that reflect real student needs, differences, and talents. Widespread dependency on pre-defined curricula and assessment is seen as perpetuating outdated classroom strategies and techniques that do not work.…

The relationship between language and culture is examined briefly, and instructional approaches to developing cultural awareness in language students, particularly Chinese students of English as a Second Language (ESL), are discussed. It is noted that effective cross-cultural communication requires an understanding of culture's role in governing…

The current state of research on cross-cultural speech acts is examined, its applicability to the second language classroom is evaluated, and new directions for research, with more relevance for classroom practice, are recommended. Problems found with cross-cultural speech act research to date include questions it has raised about the universal…

National Standards in Foreign Language Education, a collaborative project of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, American Association of Teachers of French, American Association of Teachers of German, and American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese, has developed basic standards for foreign language education…

A collection of three excerpted stories is provided in this paper about cross-cultural communication. The paper presents excerpts from papers written as assignments by teacher/students in a course about first and second language development. In the paper's first excerpt, Angela Jordahl tells about her involvement with Kurdish students in a…

This paper explores the relationships between English as a world language, native speakers and their governments, and educational practices to illustrate the risks of power by language and the risks of language. A brief political history of the English language is followed by predictions on the use of English in the 1990s. It is suggested that…

This paper focuses on English language teaching for the hospitality industry in Hong Kong, presenting a brief statement on the concept of transfer and its relevance to teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) for the world of work. The observable changes in the nature of language in the world of work in a service-oriented economy are…

This curriculum outline introduces the components of a Japanese language and culture course which includes a module on understanding Japanese cultural code words. First, the syllabus for the introductory course to Japanese language and culture is presented, highlighting the course objectives, texts, criteria for grading, assignments, and…

It is argued that field trips and related activities in and out of the classroom, especially when well-planned, have educational, social, and cultural value for students of English as a Second Language (ESL). They offer meaningful learning experiences, extra learning opportunities, and authentic language encounters with native English-speakers.…

An experiential student project in an intercultural communication course promotes active cross cultural understanding through an intercultural interview with listening as a primary focus. Students in this senior-level course may choose to conduct an intercultural interview as a field study project, meeting for two or more separate interview…

Intended for directors and coordinators in Australian day-care centers, this book presents guidelines on providing mainstream services to Anglo-Australians and children from other cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Section 1 outlines the broader goals in incorporating a multicultural perspective in children's services. Section 2 outlines 11…

Noting that cultural diversity has become the rule rather than the exception in the United States, this paper presents a model for an introductory intercultural communication course based on a postmodern perspective. The first section sets out a course rationale. The second section discusses teaching the course from a holistic perspective that…

This book addresses the issue of the underrepresentation of minority teachers and the lack of knowledge in schooling and teacher education concerning cultural differences and their affect on human interaction. It offers general frameworks within which specific problem situations can be addressed while also emphasizing the culture-learning…