Effective Strategies for Teaching Intercultural Communicative Competence among Iranian Late Beginner Language Learners: A Case Study

This study explores the realm of intercultural communicative competence (ICC) within the context of Iranian beginner language learners. As our world becomes increasingly interconnected, the ability to navigate cultural differences and engage in effective cross-cultural communication has grown in significance. The study adopts a qualitative approach, drawing upon a comprehensive case study that delves into the practical implementation and outcomes of selected pedagogical methods. Through a literature review, key theories in intercultural competence and second language acquisition are synthesized to guide the selection of pedagogical strategies. To address the research questions, the researcher employed diverse student evaluation materials, which were then juxtaposed against the benchmark for intercultural communication proficiency at the beginner level. In order to delve into the perceptions of cultural identity held by novice language learners, their perspectives on various cultures, and their comprehension of language's role, an analysis of interview responses was conducted by the researcher. Results indicated that the used strategies significantly enhance intercultural skills in late beginner language students, enabling better understanding and connection with diverse cultures. Another finding was that students exhibit diverse thoughts and feelings when encountering various cultures, highlighting the need for sensitive intercultural education. Finally, by fostering culturally sensitive and effective communicators, the researchers could contribute to a more inclusive and harmonious global community, one where diverse perspective are celebrated and understood. This case study serves 52 as a stepping stone towards achieving that vision, providing a roadmap for effective ICC instruction and inspiring further research into this critical domain of language education.