Exploring the Intercultural Communication Competence of Chinese International Search and Rescue Team

摘要

The concept of intercultural competence and its relationship to international rescue is virtually unexplored.The geographically widespread disasters and the victims from diverse cultural backgrounds have challenged international rescue teams to provide culturally competent rescue.Based on Byram's ICC model (intercultural communication competence),a survey of the intercultural communication competence of Chinese International Search and Rescue Team (CISAR)was conducted with the help of a questionnaire and software SPSS11.5.Participants in this study included 37 members from CISAR.The data were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively.Results indicate that the overall ICC of the CISAR members is not quite satisfactory; the participants demonstrated the highest competence in Attitude dimension among the four,whereas they feel least competent in Knowledge and Skills dimensions.This paper also explores the implication of the study so as to shed some light into the training for culturally competent CISAR member.