Speaker
Description
In today’s globalized world, developing intercultural competence has become an essential goal of language education. This presentation explores how connected classrooms can support the development of intercultural communicative competence (ICC) among English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. Through digital technologies and online collaboration platforms, students can interact with peers from different cultural backgrounds, allowing them to experience authentic intercultural communication beyond traditional classroom boundaries.
The study presents practical classroom practices in which students participate in virtual exchanges, collaborative projects, and cross-cultural discussions with partner classes. These activities encourage learners to compare cultural perspectives, reflect on their own cultural identities, and develop empathy and global awareness while improving their English communication skills. The presentation also highlights the role of teachers in designing meaningful tasks, facilitating intercultural dialogue, and guiding reflective learning.
Preliminary observations suggest that connected classroom activities can significantly enhance students’ motivation, cultural awareness, and communicative confidence. However, challenges such as technological access, time coordination, and teacher readiness must also be addressed. The presentation offers practical recommendations for integrating connected classroom practices into EFL teaching to promote intercultural learning in meaningful and sustainable ways.
