Virtually together: Developing intercultural competencies in COVID-19 through radio broadcasting

This study aims to investigate the development of intercultural competencies among students in a student-led radio program conducted virtually during the pandemic. The thirteen-week radio program served as a platform for exchanges of dialogues, stories, and perspectives on various topics among different cultures residing in Hong Kong, aiming to raise intercultural awareness for participating members and listeners.

The structure of the radio program resembles important elements and features in UNESCO’s Story Circle, which serves as an effective method for developing intercultural competencies. Participants included 16 students from a local university who joined the radio program by rotating through different roles in radio production. These participants came from diverse cultural backgrounds, including mainland Chinese, local Hong Kong Chinese, and ethnic minorities such as Pakistani, Nepalese, and Indian. Self-reflection essays submitted by participants upon the completion of the project were analyzed and interpreted to identify themes in the context of intercultural competencies development.

The findings revealed a holistic development of intercultural competencies among participants, encompassing cognitive, socio-emotional, and behavioral dimensions. Moreover, participants reported enhanced English language proficiency. Lastly, the study highlighted the importance of institutional arrangements and the facilitator’s role in the development of intercultural competencies. This project provides insights for educators seeking to leverage or explore online media in cultivating students’ intercultural competencies.