Journal Emerging Technologies in Education
Vol. 3 No. 6 (2025)

Digital Translanguaging: Harnessing Technology to Foster Intercultural Competence in Multilingual Educational Contexts

Ethan Tan (National University of Singapore (NUS))
Siri Lek (Silpakorn University)
Ton Kiat (Assumption University)



Article Info

Publish Date
06 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background. The increasing globalization of education has resulted in more diverse, multilingual classrooms, highlighting the need for intercultural competence alongside language proficiency. Translanguaging, a practice where learners utilize their entire linguistic repertoire to communicate, offers a potential framework for fostering this competence. With the rise of digital tools, the practice of digital translanguaging has emerged, enabling students to navigate and interact across multiple languages using technology. Purpose. This study investigates how digital translanguaging, facilitated by technology, can foster intercultural competence in multilingual educational settings. It aims to explore the impact of digital tools in promoting both language proficiency and cultural awareness, providing students with the skills to communicate. Method. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining pre- and post-test surveys to measure language proficiency and intercultural competence, alongside qualitative interviews and focus groups to explore students' experiences with digital translanguaging tools. Results. The findings indicate significant improvements in both language proficiency (23% increase) and intercultural competence (24% increase) in the experimental group using digital translanguaging tools. Students reported enhanced engagement and a deeper understanding of cultural diversity. Conclusion. Digital translanguaging tools effectively enhance both language learning and intercultural competence, suggesting that technology can play a pivotal role in multilingual education.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jete

Publisher

Subject

Description

Journal Emerging Technologies in Education (JETE) is an international peer-reviewed journal dedicated to interchange for the results of high quality research in all aspect of science, technologies and Education. The journal publishes state-of-art papers in fundamental theory, experiments and ...