Increased intercultural competence

Learning outcomes from a stay abroad

Abstract

In this article, I examine how young Norwegian volunteers who stay abroad increase intercultural competence, utilise their increased competence during their stay and how it influences them when they return home. I interviewed 22 young Norwegians after their five-month stay abroad. I was curious about what intercultural communication situations made them reflect and increase their intercultural competence. This article aims to contribute to the field with empirical findings on increased intercultural competency. The findings show that they report on increased intercultural competence. The interview persons said that they communicate more efficiently and appropriately, show greater empathy, and are more context-oriented when attempting to make sense of a situation. In addition, they report that they have experienced personal development which they connect to increased intercultural competence. The research results could be of interest for volunteer training for stays abroad or higher education courses in intercultural competence.