Cross-cultural communication challenges in the age of independent knowledge systems

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore challenges arising in cross-cultural communication during the formation of independent knowledge systems. The academic value and contribution of the research is to study previously almost unexamined problems of interaction of conflicting independent knowledge systems during cross-cultural communication and to identify long-term and manageable challenges in the course of such communication. To this end, the study evaluates the opinions of participants in such communication using the example of a large Chinese university. The participants were 48 students, both Chinese and foreigners, including representatives of different faculties and years of study. The study employed the Delphi method, and the participants were asked to identify communication challenges that were relevant to them. A group of 382 people then rated the reported challenges on a 5-point Likert scale. Afterwards, the results of this assessment were compared between the Chinese and foreigners, as well as between first- and fourth-year students using the Student's t-test. The comparison revealed significant differences between the Chinese and foreigners in terms of views on historical conflicts, values, and ways of collaboration between partners. Several types of challenges that can be resolved during adaptation and cross-cultural interaction without additional intervention turned out to be differences in daily habits and learning intensity - the differences decreased by the end of the training. Differences in basic values, understanding of social hierarchy, features of respect for individuals, and traditions of cooperation between Chinese and foreign students remain unresolved. The results obtained can be practically implemented in the practice of university communication and changes in the nature of interaction between students from different countries.