Journal of International Students
Volume 7, Issue 3, 2017, Pages 555-582

Why do international students avoid communicating with Americans? (Article)

Wang I.-C. , Ahn J.N. , Kim H.J. , Lin-Siegler X.
  • a Instructional Technology & Media from Teachers College, Columbia University, United States
  • b William Paterson University, United States
  • c Teachers College, Columbia University, Department of Human Development, United States
  • d Faculty in Cognitive Science in Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, United States

Abstract

We explore how the communication concerns of non-native English speakers (NNS) and Americans relate to their perceptions of each other and decisions to interact. NNS identified their concerns in communicating with Americans, the perceived causes of their concerns, and the strategies they would employ to address these concerns. Americans noted their perceptions of NNS’ (heavy and mild) accents and identified factors that influence their perceptions of NNS and decisions to communicate with NNS. Results revealed that the more NNS attribute their communication concerns to Americans’ bias, the more likely they would avoid interacting with Americans. Results also suggested that Americans show a more favorable attitude toward mild accent NNS. We discuss the implications these findings have for international education and future research. © Journal of International Students.

Author Keywords

ESL communication Perceived bias Foreign accent Intercultural competence

Index Keywords

[No Keywords available]
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85019720679&doi=10.5281%2fzenodo.570023&partnerID=40&md5=4b96f298b348a91383cadac24c9ebd99
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.570023
ISSN: 21623104
Cited by: 3
Original Language: English