Identifying the Needs of Chinese Business Students for Developing BELF Pedagogy
Keywords:
Business English as A Lingua Franca (BELF), Intercultural Communication Competence (ICC), Chinese International Business Students, Needs Analysis, Instructional Materials DevelopmentAbstract
This study aims to explore the developmental needs of Chinese international business students in the context of Business English as a Lingua Franca (BELF) teaching methodology and investigate how to enhance their intercultural communication competence by developing tailored instructional materials. Conducted at Heilongjiang International University in China, the research adopts an explanatory sequential design, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methods. Through needs analysis questionnaires administered to students and semi-structured interviews conducted with Business English teachers, the study delves into the nuanced requirements of students, aiming to provide essential guidance and insights for designing and implementing more effective BELF courses. The findings reveal diverse needs among Chinese students, particularly in English proficiency, business-specific knowledge, business communication skills, cultural awareness, and acculturation skills. In response to these needs, the study proposes a range of strategies, including integrating business-specific knowledge, enhancing English proficiency, cultivating business communication skills, fostering cultural awareness, promoting acculturation skills, and fostering positive attitudes towards intercultural communication. The research outcomes serve as valuable references for optimizing and developing Business English teaching materials, offering crucial theoretical support and practical guidance for enhancing Chinese students' competitiveness and international communication skills in international business.
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