Algerian Students’ Perceptions of Common Ground in Building Intercultural Communication: A Case Study in Hungarian Universities

Abstract

In the context of the increasing cultural diversity in Hungary, common ground remains largely unidentified, thereby hindering the development of strategies that create a meaningful intercultural communication between Algerians and Hungarians. The current research investigated how shared experiences, values, and cultural practices are perceived to shape interactions. Drawing on the results of a questionnaire distributed to 40 Algerian individuals studying in Hungary, and through a mixed-method approach, the collected data were treated using SPSS and MAXQDA software. Additionally, via thematic analysis, the study examines instances of cultural convergence and divergence, stereotypes, and practices for overcoming communicative challenges. The findings accentuated the significance of identifying and leveraging shared understanding as a foundation for fostering empathy and mutual respect. However, they ascertained that language barriers are not the main factor affecting intercultural communication virtuosity. Eventually, this research elaborates on the complex interplay between identity and strategy where embracing diversity is a proof of existence of both core and emergent common ground conceptions. To sum up, it provides valuable insights into the cultivation of cross-cultural comprehension across diverse contexts for further discussion.