Developing Intercultural Communication Competence through Virtual Exchange Programs in Europe

Abstract

This study examines how virtual exchange programs contribute to developing intercultural communication competence among European university students in an increasingly digitalized educational landscape. Through a mixed-methods investigation involving 240 participants from six European countries engaged in structured online collaboration over twelve weeks, the research explores competence development across cognitive, affective, and behavioral dimensions. Quantitative assessments using the Intercultural Sensitivity Scale and Intercultural Effectiveness Scale measured pre- and post-program changes, while qualitative data from reflective journals, focus groups, and interaction analysis illuminated developmental processes and challenges. Findings reveal significant improvements in cultural awareness, perspective-taking ability, communication adaptability, and tolerance for ambiguity, with effect sizes indicating meaningful competence gains. However, results also highlight persistent challenges including linguistic inequalities, technological barriers, superficial engagement patterns, and difficulty translating awareness into behavioral skills. The study identifies critical design features supporting competence development: structured reflection activities, facilitated intercultural incidents, authentic collaborative tasks, and sustained interaction over time. These findings inform virtual exchange pedagogy in European higher education contexts increasingly prioritizing internationalization at home and digital learning innovations.