How can diversity lead to richer unity? Developing intercultural competences through

Abstract

International audience

In this paper, an innovatory experiential teaching design, which aims to develop the intercultural competences of students in two French Graduate Engineering Schools, is described and analysed. Using a concept called "interity", developed by Demorgon, students are encouraged to negotiate a common frame of reference and action, creating unity from diversity. Our main objective is to use the diversity represented by cultural and disciplinary differences to produce new synergies. The intercultural competences which emerged are analysed using the five savoirs developed by Byram & Zarate and Demorgon's multiperspectivist approach. Successful elements of the teaching design are highlighted and suggestions for future improvements are given.