Gender differences in intercultural competence: The moderating role of intercultural experiences

ABSTRACT

This study investigated the potential gender gap in university students’ intercultural dispositions. Self-report measures were used to assess 671 Chinese students’ attitudinal, cognitive and behavioral aspects of IC. Results of the independent sample T-test showed those male and female students’ scores were only significantly different in Positive Cultural Orientation of the attitudinal dimension of IC, with female students having higher scores. Results of regression analyses further indicated that when intercultural experiences are limited, females reported higher IC levels than males; yet when intercultural experiences are rich for both gender groups, males benefited more from intercultural experiences. Implications of the findings are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Intercultural competence; gender differences; intercultural experiences
• 21st century skills; university students

Correction Statement

This article has been corrected with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.