Intercultural Computer-Mediated Communication Between Chinese and U.S. College Students

Abstract

This study incorporates the effects of culture and computer-mediated communication (CMC) in the investigation of Chinese college students’ use of English in communication with U. S. college students. Ethnography of communication was used as the method to uncover four language patterns in Chinese college students’ use of English: others-oriented talk, mentor-mentee talk with limited relationship development, adoption of others’ talk, and icebreaker talk. Chinese cultural values showed a strong effect on Chinese college students’ use of English in CMC. Chinese cultural values included Chinese significance of personal relationships, Chinese collectivism, Chinese understanding of authority, and Chinese use of CMC. The characteristics of CMC showed minimal effect as either a constraint or a way of encouragement in the four language patterns.