Intercultural Communication through English as a Lingua Franca (ELF) of Asian Foreign Teachers with Thai Students from Muban Chombueng Rajabaht Univeristy DOI:

Abstract

         Although English is used as a lingua franca to facilitate mutual understanding among people from different countries, there are still cultural factors that affect language use and communication, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts. This research aimed to: 1) compare language and cultural differences between foreign Asian teachers and students at Muban Chom Bueng Rajabhat University, 2) study problems and solutions in the cross-cultural communication, and 3) to establish intercultural communication guidelines between these cultural group. The study adopted a mixed-method research design, incorporating qualitative research through in-depth interviews and quantitative research by using frequency and percentage. The sample consisted of four Asian teachers selected by purposive sampling from the entire population. The research instrument was an in-depth interview questionnaire with three main aspects: 1) general information and problems occurring during cross-cultural communication, 2) problems encountered in teaching due to language and cultural differences and solutions, 3) guidelines for intercultural communication in such the context. Data collection was carried out during the first and second semesters of the academic year 2024. Content analysis was employed for data analysis, and basic statistics utilized included frequency and percentage.

         The findings indicated that: 1) language and cultural diversity contributed factors leading to communication barriers, 2) the main obstacles arose from teachers' cultural knowledge and understanding of the students’ cultural background, and perceptions towards the students, and 3) guidelines for intercultural communication were as follows: 3.1) expressing understanding of cultural differences, 3.2) responding positively both verbally and non-verbally, 3.3) demonstrating flexibility and adaptability, 3.4) showing respect and openness, and 3.5) Exhibiting patience and empathy.