Intercultural Communication Strategies of Chinese Students Studying in Thailand: A Case Study of Nakhon Pathom Rajabhat University

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the intercultural communication strategies of Chinese students in Thailand. The participants were 41 Chinese students who were studying English for Communication, Semester 2 of 2023 at Nakhon Pathom Rajabhat University. This study applied mixedmethods research approaches. Quantitative data was collected from the intercultural communicative competence self-assessment, and analyzed by mean and standard deviation. Qualitative data were collected from interviews and classroom observation. Thematic content analysis (Anderson, 1998) was utilized in analyzing the qualitative data. Findings revealed that the students’ intercultural communication competence (ICC) was considered high. However, two main obstacles to ICC emerged including English abilities and knowledge of Thai culture. The strategies Chinese students used in communication with Thai teachers were body language of raising hands together with speaking Thai and English and also using translating applications. To specify, students use strategies such as using gestures, raising their hands to request repetition, or slower speech from the interlocutor. However, if the communication remains unsuccessful, students may turn to translation applications to achieve successful communication in addressing communication problems that arise. Regarding the participants’ suggestions about activities promoting their intercultural communication competence, they recommended including basic Thai and English language training, providing cultural exchange activities, assigning Thai advisors, and also arranging Thai buddies.