Examining Efl Students' Views Of Intercultural Communication During The COVID-19 Pandemic

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been increased news reports pertaining to racism, discrimination, and intercultural relation issues. The aim of this case study was to explore South Korean EFL students’ views of the importance of intercultural communication and how they perceive intercultural issues in the news during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also sought to obtain participant recommendations on how to improve awareness of intercultural communication. This study was conducted during the spring semester of 2020 at a university in central South Korea. Participants included 14 South Korean university students who were enrolled in an intercultural communication class that was conducted online. Data included individual interviews, a focus group, and essays. Data analysis centered on examining commonalities and key statements made by participants. In terms of why it is important to study intercultural communication, results highlighted the need for people to be understanding and knowledgeable about diverse cultures, having respect for other people and cultures, and ensuring that past intercultural conflict does not happen in the future. Students shared their opinions on several intercultural issues in the news germane to the COVID-19 pandemic, including discrimination toward Asians as well as other topics including the Black Lives Matter movement, and issues affecting Korea. Students provided a wide range of recommendations for improving their awareness of intercultural communication including reading about other cultures, interacting with diverse people on social media, watching cultural videos, being more accepting and open minded, and studying historical events related to intercultural communication.