PERCEPTION OF TAIWANESE STUDENTS ON CROSS-CULTURAL INTERACTION IN THE CONTEXT OF ACADEMIC DIPLOMACY

Purpose: The conference article explores Taiwanese students' perceptions of cross-cultural interactions with international students in academic settings. Objective: This study’s objective is to analyze how students in Taiwan experience cross-cultural interaction within the context of education as a soft power. Methodology: This is a qualitative research study focused on gathering and analyzing data from semi-structured interviews to examine soft power elements in international classrooms in Taiwan. Research findings: The research findings indicate Taiwan students’ view on cross-cultural interactions in international and higher education classrooms at the National Taipei University. Scientific value: There is value in contribution to the understanding of cross-cultural interaction within the context of academic diplomacy. Examining Taiwan’s host student population’s perceptions of international exchanges, we provide evidence of how such interaction can shape soft power trends in higher education. Practical value: The contribution provides education policymakers and administration with an understanding of the benefits and challenges of effective international programs that are part of the Ministry of Education of Taiwan’s strategy. Research limitations: The sample and collected data may not fully represent the diversity of Taiwanese students’ perceptions and experiences with international peers. Also, for this conference, the study does not have enough space to cover all elements of Soft Power