ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a Framework for Developing Intercultural Understanding drawing on the experience in international education, key research in intercultural understanding and related fields, and the prominent models. The terms intercultural understanding and intercultural competence are often used interchangeably in educational contexts and discourse depending on the individual or organisation. The chapter takes a brief look at the historical context of intercultural understanding in education and organisations that promote it, along with its particular relevance to life in the world today. It recognizes intercultural understanding as an intrinsic part of developing international-mindedness. International-mindedness is central to the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). The Australian Curriculum reflects exemplary work integrating intercultural understanding into the curriculum. Janet Bennett describes intercultural competence as, 'a set of cognitive, affective and behavioral skills and characteristics that support effective and appropriate interaction in a variety of cultural contexts'.
