International Virtual Exchange as a Catalyst for Improving Intercultural Communication and English Language Skills: China-Japan

Abstract

This paper describes an asynchronous, transnational virtual exchange between university students from Japan and China. Students from two different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, in two different physical locations, collaborated to produce a video on the broad theme of sustainability in a mutual second language, English. Through pre- and post-project surveys and the written reflections of students, it was found that students were able to develop greater intercultural awareness and improve their English language communication skills.

Keywords

Intercultural communication / virtual exchange / video / transnational collaboration / COVID-19 / sustainability / English language communication skills

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