Cultivating Intercultural Competence in an Intra–Asian Exchange Program: The Perspectives of Thai Undergraduate Students in China

Abstract

Intercultural competence (IC) is becoming increasingly important in higher education, especially regarding international student mobility within exchange programs. This study aimed to examine the IC reported by Thai undergraduate students after a two-month exchange program in China, investigate how Thai students perceived cultural similarities and differences in relation to their intercultural learning in the Thai Chinese context, and explore how the intra-Asian context of China shapes Thai students’ intercultural learning. The study employed a parallel mixed-methods approach, collecting quantitative data from a 25-item self-assessment IC questionnaire (N= 129) and qualitative data from focus group discussions with 10 students. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Quantitative results showed that students reported relatively high levels of IC across all four dimensions, with cultural understanding having the highest average score and cultural adaptation the lowest. Qualitative results revealed four key areas: perceived cultural similarities and differences, cultural awareness and understanding, attitudes and acceptance of intercultural differences, and intercultural adaptation strategies. Perceived similarities may contribute to familiarity with the new environment, while differences in communication and daily life practices may cause students to re-examine their preconceived interpretations and expectations. This includes adapting communication methods and behaviors to the situation. The study results indicate that intercultural learning in the context of intra-Asian exchange programs can occur through interaction between familiarity and difference. This study expands understanding of IC beyond the context of movement between the West and Asia and highlights the importance of meaningful intercultural interaction and reflective experience in designing short-term exchange programs.