Intercultural communication: a fundamental tool for relationships and human behaviour in international collaboration

Abstract

English language training is a fundamental tool in human behavior and relationships, participation, cooperation, interaction, and spread of academic as well as scientific knowledge. Hence, a superior management of graduate studies became evident. However, evidences showed how Universidad Central “Marta Abreu” de Las Villas professionals lacked the required skills in the language to meet up the demands of international cooperation programs. Thus, the present study aims to describe the design and implementation of an English for Specific Purposes course targeted for Cuban PhD and Master students with a focus on intercultural competence, within an advanced training program of English language for international cooperation. First, the context was analyzed resulting in a need for courses with an intercultural perspective. Then, the courses were designed for a Virtual Learning Environment and implemented in a self-access Centre for Advanced English Language Training for International Cooperation.  The experience was positively evaluated. The results impacted on students’ success in academic programs and cooperation project goals abroad. The project became a reference for cooperation projects in other Higher Education Institutions in Cuba.