Work

Intercultural competence in a homogeneous context: a phenomenological study of international students’ lived experiences in an Iranian University

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates international students’ personal experiences with intercultural competence within the distinct, culturally homogeneous environment of an Iranian public university. Employing a phenomenological approach, the research explores the lived realities of 15 international students to understand how this specific sociopolitical context shapes intercultural development. Through a constant comparison method, the study identifies three critical dimensions organisational, educational, and relational where intercultural competence is currently lacking. The findings emphasise that in homogeneous settings, institutional conditions significantly constrain individual intercultural growth. The study contributes novel empirical insights from a non-Western context and advances a systemic conceptualisation of intercultural competence. Practical recommendations are offered for universities seeking to promote inclusive and transformative internationalisation.

Source: Journal of Further and Higher Education

DOI: 10.1080/0309877x.2026.2678342

Authors: Ali Hassanpour, Sherry Deckman, Nematollah Azizi, Jamal Salimi

Institutions: University of North Texas, City University of New York, University of Glasgow, University of Kurdistan

Language: English

Topic: International Student and Expatriate Challenges

Subfield: Communication

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W7162034416