ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses group work communication, drawing on data from a larger project investigating UK international students’ perceptions of their English. Participants were 18 international students, each interviewed twice about how they felt about using English and about the university’s language policies. Their perceptions of both their own and other students’ English were found to impact on their group work communication for assessed projects but this was not the only factor. Participants highlighted the importance of other elements, including their own and/or others’ age, personality, previous experience of group work, disciplinary background, work experience and cultural background. These elements underlined that the label ‘international students’ can be misleading, as it can obscure the diversity within and result in policies that lack nuance. The data provide an insight into how communication was (mis)managed by group members, and the impact of this on individuals. The wider context within which group projects took place is also discussed, looking at the role of lecturers and policymakers. It is recommended that a broader approach to intercultural communication is taken, and that training is undertaken by all staff and students.
