Fostering intercultural competence through digital storytelling: a critical approach in EFL education in Taiwan
Article / Journal
Author(s) / editor(s):
Amber Yayin Wang
,
Wen-Chi Hu
Year: 2025
Language(s): English
Abstract:
Although developing intercultural competence (IC) in EFL college students is increasingly emphasised, productive strategies for integrating IC into the EFL curriculum remain limited. This study examines the impact of digital storytelling (DST) as a core component of a student-centered, multicultural English curriculum in Taiwan. This study used mixed methods, including questionnaires, interviews, and video analysis, to examine changes in five IC dimensions: knowledge, affective orientation, self-efficacy, behaviour, and consciousness. A total of 688 students participated in the study. Results showed significant improvement in four IC dimensions, with the greatest gains in intercultural knowledge and self-efficacy. Qualitative data from interviews and DST video analysis further revealed students’ perceived growth in cultural awareness, communicative confidence, and respect for diversity. DST served not only as a language practice tool but also as a platform for students to critically engage with multicultural issues and express their cultural perspectives through multimedia. This study concludes that DST can be effectively integrated into the EFL curriculum to foster both linguistic development and intercultural competence. The findings highlight the significance of DST-integrated multicultural English curriculum design in preparing EFL students to engage meaningfully in intercultural communication and contribute to global citizenship in an increasingly interconnected world.
https://doi.org/10.1080/07908318.2025.2528771
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