ABSTRACT
Intercultural communication (IC) as a field applies research into practices related to communicating with people from dissimilar cultures. This chapter gives a brief rationale for Intercultural communication and discusses six approaches to researching IC: three are salient in researched IC literature: a linguistic approach of examining ways of speaking, a culture comparison approach of looking at dimensions of cultures, a competency based approach. Three others have roots in researched educational theory and practice: a problem-solving approach in which participants are encouraged to analyse situations and find solutions, an experiential approach which develops evaluation and reflection on experience, and a praxis approach in which participants take relevant responsible action. Ethnographic research in linguistic anthropology and sociolinguistics in the study of 'ways of speaking' of different speech communities gives insights into IC situations. The competency approach is researched through development with groups and teams of students and of staff, and for institutional collaboration.
