Cultural Translation as a Transformative Pedagogical Tool: Enhancing Intercultural Competence in Modern Education

Authors

  • Ning Li

    School of Foreign Languages, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i1.7388
Received: 27 September 2024 | Revised: 23 October 2024 | Accepted: 8 November 2024 | Published Online: 13 January 2025

Abstract

In today’s interconnected global landscape, education must prioritize the development of intercultural and transcultural competence to equip students with the skills necessary to navigate and thrive in culturally diverse environments. This paper investigates cultural translation as a transformative pedagogical tool, demonstrating its potential to foster intercultural and transcultural communication through innovative curriculum design. Cultural translation, conceptualized as both a theoretical framework and a practical strategy, enables the integration of diverse cultural perspectives into educational practices, encouraging students to engage critically and empathetically with global cultures. The study delves into the theoretical underpinnings of cultural translation, highlighting its ability to bridge cultural divides and promote mutual understanding. Through practical applications such as case studies, bilingual interactions, and cultural mediation projects, the research illustrates how cultural translation can enhance students' awareness and appreciation of cultural diversity. These strategies not only deepen cultural engagement but also foster essential skills such as critical thinking, empathy, and adaptability. Furthermore, the paper addresses key challenges in implementing cultural translation, including the risks of cultural misrepresentation and oversimplification. It advocates for ethical solutions, such as fostering inclusivity, promoting nuanced representations, and encouraging active dialogue among educators and students. By embedding cultural translation into the educational framework, this study underscores its potential as a transformative tool for cultivating global competence. In doing so, it positions cultural translation as a critical component of modern education, preparing students to navigate the complexities of a globalized world while fostering mutual respect and understanding across cultures.

 

Keywords:

Cultural Translation; Intercultural Competence; Curriculum Design; Global Education; Multicultural Learning Environment

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How to Cite

Li, N. (2025). Cultural Translation as a Transformative Pedagogical Tool: Enhancing Intercultural Competence in Modern Education. Forum for Linguistic Studies, 7(1), 867–878. https://doi.org/10.30564/fls.v7i1.7388

Issue

Vol. 7 , Iss. 1 (January 2025)

Article Type

Article

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Copyright © 2025 Ning Li

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This is an open access article under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0) License.