Intercultural Communication and Social Contact on L2 Learners’ Pragmatic Competence in a Study Abroad Context

Abstract

This study explores the development of intercultural communicative competence, social contact, and pragmatic competence among Thai learners of English during their study abroad experience in Sydney, Australia. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative data on language use and proficiency with qualitative insights from participant interviews to offer a comprehensive view of the linguistic and cultural immersion process. The quantitative analysis using the Language Contact Profile (LCP) reveals significant increases in the use of English across all key linguistic skills, indicating that immersion in an English-speaking environment substantially enhances language proficiency. Qualitative narratives using the LCP and interviews further enrich these findings, highlighting the transformative impact of cultural immersion on learners’ communicative competence and their adaptation to intercultural contexts.

Key findings demonstrate that study abroad experiences facilitate not only improvements in linguistic abilities but also a deeper understanding and application of cultural nuances in communication. The study underscores the importance of active engagement and social interactions with the host community in developing pragmatic competence and intercultural communicative skills. Despite its contributions, the study acknowledges limitations, including a relatively small sample size and the specific context of Thai learners in Sydney, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.

The research offers several implications for educators, program designers, and policymakers, suggesting the need for study abroad programs that prioritize cultural immersion and active language practice. Future studies are encouraged to explore the long-term impact of study abroad on linguistic and intercultural competencies, examine other learner populations, and consider the role of digital technologies in facilitating language learning and cultural exchange. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on the benefits of study abroad programs, advocating for an integrated approach to language education that embraces the complexities of learning in an intercultural setting.

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