The intercultural experiences of Vietnamese students in Taiwan

A transformative learning analysis of written reflections

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/68m00x13

Keywords:

Mezirow’s transformative learning theory, Vietnamese students, higher education in Taiwan, intercultural experiences, intercultural communication, written reflections

Abstract

This study explores the intercultural experiences of four Vietnamese students in a Taiwanese intercultural communication course over 15 weeks of self-reflective writing. Guided by Mezirow’s transformative learning theory, this analysis examines how these students navigate cultural differences, make sense of stereotypes, and reconstruct their identities. Qualitative analysis reveals disorienting dilemmas, critical reflection, and shifts in perspective that deepen cultural awareness and empathy. Self-reflective writing has emerged as a crucial tool for expressing and connecting classroom discussions with personal experiences. The findings highlight the importance of experiential learning and reflection in promoting intercultural sensitivity, offering valuable insights for curriculum design in global education settings.

Author Biographies

  • Nguyen-B-Ngoc Jade, Yuan Ze University, Taiwan

    Nguyen B. Ngoc Jade (APA 7th cited as “Jade, N. B. N.”) is currently a Doctoral Candidate in Management and an Adjunct Lecturer at Yuan Ze University (Taiwan), where she obtained an MBA in Leadership and an MA in Language Studies. Jade teaches undergraduate EMI courses, including English Communication Technique, Digital Applications in Humanities, and others. Jade focuses on research related to Technology Management, Education, and Applied Linguistics. Her research work can be found in International Journal of Management Education, International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction, Technology in Society, English Today, and many others.

  • Kazuaki Nakazawa, Yuan Ze University, Taiwan

    Kazuaki Nakazawa obtained his Ph.D. in Linguistics from Purdue University, USA. He is currently an Associate Professor in Department of Foreign Languages and Applied Linguistics at Yuan Ze University (Taiwan). His research interests include Japanese Language Education, Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL), and Teacher Professional Development.

  • I-Chung Ke, Yuan Ze University, Taiwan

    I-Chung Ke obtained his Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, USA. He is currently a Professor in Department of Foreign Languages and Applied Linguistics at Yuan Ze University (Taiwan). His research interests include Global English, Curriculum and textbook studies, Intercultural Communication, Online Intercultural Exchange, and Translanguaging in Education.

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Published

2026-02-05

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Vol. 16 No. 2 (2026): Journal of International Students | Special Issue Building Inclusive Futures

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Special Issue | Building Inclusive Futures

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How to Cite

Jade, N.-B.-N., Nakazawa, K., & Ke, I.-C. (2026). The intercultural experiences of Vietnamese students in Taiwan: A transformative learning analysis of written reflections. Journal of International Students, 16(2), 45-68. https://doi.org/10.32674/68m00x13