On Effective Intercultural Communication In Education

Based on the theories of intercultural research, this study examines the problems that foreign teachers and Chinese students have encountered in class in China, and analyzes the influence of cultural differences on teaching and studying modes. Finally, the study puts forward strategies to solve these problems. Based on the analysis, general principles are produced.Qualitative data including participant observations, observation memos, foreign teacher and Chinese student interviews were collected. In addition, analysis of questionnaires was also utilized as a supplementary means.Educational and cultural differences between the western and eastern countries are found to be the causes of the problems, which occur when foreign teachers and Chinese students meet in class. The paper contrasts five pairs of cultural patterns: (1)individualism vs. collectivism. (2)power distance, (3)uncertainty avoidance, (4) masculinity vs. femininity, and (5)high-context culture vs. low-context culture. Then it proposes the cultivation of cultural awareness, and lists the contents of culture teaching.The results of the study suggest that after experiencing culture shock, such as frustration, anxiety and uncertainty, both teachers and students undertook to deal with problems they encountered, which were solved to some degree after two months, when more effective communication between foreign teachers and Chinese students was established in class. Hence, teachers and students should be aware of the importance of culture and realize the importance of cultivating consciousness; and culture teaching should be implemented systematically, using various techniques to enhance intercultural communicative competence.Findings of the study imply that cross-cultural training problems can be dealt with before similar intercultural communication programs are held, in order to achieve better instruction effects. Along with improved intercommunication of culture and education, the study will be helpful for the development of our country's teaching reform on the basis of regarding cultural differences.