EFL STUDENT’S PERCEPTIONS OF USING AUTHENTIC MATERIALS AS MEDIATORS TO DEVELOP THEIR INTERCULTURAL COMPETENCE IN LEARNING ENGLISH: A CASE AT A SCHOOL IN A UNIVERSITY, THE MEKONG DELTA REGION, VIETNAM

Abstract

This article describes a research undertaken at a Mekong Delta university's foreign language school. Its goal is to determine the significance of authentic papers based on cultural themes in the development of intercultural competency in English language students. The pedagogical implementation of activities is planned in accordance with the specified criteria for assessing culturally relevant material. In terms of intercultural competence, Byram's (2002) part of intercultural competence (ICCo) is assistance for task planning and execution. Two surveys, a questionnaire, and an interview were used to collect data in this qualitative action research project. The subjects of the survey included 80 students and four fourth-year students majoring in English Studies and Translation and Interpreting and three lecturers of English, teaching Intercultural Communication (ICC) courses from School of Foreign Languages, Can Tho University. The findings demonstrate that students comprehend diversity, appreciate other cultures, and are interested in learning about different societies. Similarly, the students stated that they were open to discussing cultural issues. Furthermore, elements from other English classes help students learn and become more interested in culture. Finally, recommendations will be offered to assist instructors in improving intercultural communication. When using authentic materials as mediators to develop their intercultural competence in learning English, the initiative seeks to assist students to get a different viewpoint and higher awareness. Finally, the researcher will provide suggestions for further research.  Article visualizations: