| Presenter(s) | Keiji Fujimura (Aichi Institute of Technology), Vachira Jantarach (Silpakorn University), Shigenori Wakabayashi, Jun Iio (Chuo University), Suttiya Khongyai (Silpakorn University) |
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| Abstract | As English continues to function as a global resource used by speakers from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, fostering learners’ awareness of World Englishes (WE) has emerged as one of the key pedagogical priorities. However, EFL learners often have limited opportunities to interact with diverse English users in an authentic setting. To address this gap, the Students Meet Internationally through Language Education (SMILE) project was implemented to create an accessible virtual space for intercultural communication. In this study, 28 Thai students from Silpakorn University, 8 students from Chuo University, and 6 students from Aichi Institute of Technology participated in three autonomous 60-minute virtual exchange meetings across one month. The aim was to examine whether repeated interaction with international peers could foster shifts in English as an International Language (EIL) perception. Data were collected through pre- and post-exchange surveys and a series of written reflections gathered at multiple stages throughout the project. Preliminary results indicate positive tendencies in learner’s views toward EIL. Participants also reported increased confidence and acceptance of diverse English accents. While full analyses are still in progress, these observations suggest the potential of virtual exchanges through the SMILE project to support learner’s development of WE awareness within EFL contexts. |
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| Misc | Aichi Institute of Technology (Japan), Chuo University (Japan), & Silpakorn University (Thailand) |
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