CULTURAL MISUNDERSTANDINGS IN THE GLOBAL WORKPLACE: EFL LEARNERS’ PERSPECTIVES AND SOLUTIONS FROM AN INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION COURSE

Thai Cong Dan, Thai Phan Bao Han

Abstract


This study investigated cultural misunderstandings experienced by 55 English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners after completing an online intercultural communication (ICC) course. These learners were online second-degree English students enrolled in an English Studies program at Can Tho University, Vietnam. They analyzed eight case studies of cultural misunderstandings adapted from Pham, T. H. N. (2011). Communicating with Vietnamese in Intercultural Contexts: Insights into Vietnamese Values, and proposed practical solutions based on their personal experiences and course content. The study aimed to (1) identify common cultural misunderstandings, (2) examine the solutions suggested by the learners, and (3) evaluate their perceptions of each solution’s effectiveness. Thematic analysis revealed recurring issues related to power distance, indirect communication styles, and hierarchical workplace structures. Follow-up interviews with five participants provided deeper insight into the perceived impact and practicality of their solutions, which included intercultural training, open dialogue initiatives, and mentorship programs. These findings highlighted the challenges EFL learners faced in intercultural settings and offered practical recommendations for improving communication in diverse professional environments.

 

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Keywords


intercultural communication, cultural misunderstandings, EFL learners, online second-degree students, Can Tho University, workplace communication, practical solutions

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejae.v10i1.5992

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