JEELS (Journal of English Education and Linguistics Studies)
Vol. 13 No. 1 (2026): JEELS May 2026

Intercultural sensitivity and linguistic adaptation among Indonesian students in Cairo: A narrative inquiry

Rushafah, Afanin (Unknown)
Fitriyah, Ulil (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
25 May 2026

Abstract

While a growing body of research has acknowledged the importance of Intercultural Sensitivity for international students, studies focusing on linguistic adaptation in this context remain limited. This study explores the experiences of Indonesian students in Cairo in adapting their linguistic practices through the adjustment of various linguistic resources in a multilingual context. By using a narrative inquiry approach, the data were collected through written open-ended questions and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. The conceptual framework of the Intercultural Sensitivity dimensions by Chen and Starosta (2000) and the Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT) framework developed by Giles (1973, 1991) are employed to examine students’ linguistic adjustment in intercultural encounters. The results showed that students’ level of intercultural sensitivity vary and are affected by their educational background and experience in Arabic and English language acquisition. Students who demonstrated more intercultural sensitivity tended to be more open to local culture, more confident when interacting with local communities, and more flexible in adjusting their linguistic practices. This flexibility is reflected in their language choices, communication strategies, and the forms of linguistic adaptation used in intercultural communication.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jeels

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

JEELS aims to disseminate the results of research in English Education and Linguistics. The published articles are the findings of research in the field of English language education and linguistics. The scope of research includes: English language teaching and learning English language testing and ...