Foreign Language Teachers’ Intercultural Competence as a New Aspect of Professional Development

Gazioğlu M., Güner B.

Journal of Culture and Values in Education, vol.4, no.2, pp.27-41, 2021 (Peer-Reviewed Journal)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 4 Issue: 2
  • Publication Date: 2021
  • Journal Name: Journal of Culture and Values in Education
  • Journal Indexes: EBSCO Education Source, Directory of Open Access Journals, Index Copernicus
  • Page Numbers: pp.27-41
  • Abdullah Gül University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This mixed-method study aims to offer an insight into foreign language teachers’ perceptions on the relationship between intercultural competence and professional development. It is also attempted to explore some methods for evaluating teachers’ intercultural competence through their professional development activities. The research participants are local and international instructors at a private university in Turkey. Data was collected via a web-based questionnaire and a semi-structured interview designed by the researchers. The general findings of the study indicate that learning about a) target culture, b) local culture, and c) international students’ culture contribute to foreign language teachers’ intercultural competence and it is considered as a part of their professional development. However, it is pointed out that pre-service and in-service teacher training programs in Turkey cannot provide sufficient facilities to develop teachers’ intercultural competence.

Key words: Professional development, intercultural competence, foreign language teaching