When Greeks learn Turkish: developing intercultural competence through learning the language of the ‘enemy’

ABSTRACT

Learning a foreign language is not only an interesting cognitive process. It is also a means of communication with other peoples and becoming acquainted with their cultures. Therefore, learning a foreign language can contribute to the development of intercultural competence, i.e. the competence to manage new communication conditions and situations. In this context, Turkish language learning by Greek citizens may act as a means to transform negative stereotypes and prejudices against Turkish people, which predominate in a large segment of the Greek population. This article presents qualitative research findings of twenty Greek adult citizens’ transformation of perceptions, subsequent to their attending Turkish language courses. The research established that the majority of the participants acknowledged Turkish language learning and acquisition as a contribution to the development of intercultural communication, to a better acquaintance with Turkish people and the transformation of former negative perceptions of Turkish people and culture.

KEYWORDS:

• Foreign language learning
• turkish
• greeks
• intercultural competence

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Kostas Magos

Kostas Magos is Associate Professor of intercultural education at the University of Thessaly in Greece. His scientific interests focus on the theory and practice of intercultural and critical pedagogy.

Kanella Georgopapadakou

Kanella Georgopapadakou studied Archaeology and History of Art at the University of Athens and has a master’s degree in Education Studies. She speaks English, Italian and Turkish and her scientific interests focus on linguistic issues in the field of Adult Learning.