Empowering Pragmatic Competence in ELT: Leveraging Digital Intercultural Communication through Moderated Online Communities and Cross-Cultural Dialogues
Article / Journal
Author(s) / editor(s):
Niaam Ali Hasan
Year: 2025
Language(s): English
Abstract:
Pragmatic competence, an essential component of communicative proficiency in English as a Foreign Language (EFL)
contexts, remains a challenging aspect for learners due to its dependence on sociocultural norms and contextual
appropriateness. This study explores how digital intercultural communication—facilitated through moderated online
communities and cross-cultural dialogues—enhances pragmatic competence among English language learners. A
mixed-methods approach was employed, analyzing discussion transcripts, cultural awareness surveys, and pragmatic
error frequency before and after learners' engagement in digital interactions. The findings reveal a significant reduction
in pragmalinguistic and sociopragmatic errors, an increase in indirect request strategies, and heightened self-correction
rates, indicating improved metapragmatic awareness. Additionally, intercultural sensitivity was enhanced, with
participants demonstrating a deeper understanding of politeness norms across linguistic communities. The study
highlights the intersection of digital communication, pragmatic competence, and intercultural awareness as a crucial
area for ELT pedagogy, advocating for the integration of technology-mediated pragmatic instruction into curricula.
These findings underscore the need for a structured, feedback-oriented approach to digital intercultural learning in
language education.
https://ijassh.org/admin1/upload/06%20Niaam%20Ali%20Hasan%2001317.pdf
Post created by: interculture.de e.V.