INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION AND MULTICULTURAL CHALLENGES IN EDUCATIONAL SPACE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.57033/mijournals-2026-5-0096Keywords:
multiculturalism, intercultural communication, multicultural education, cultural diversity, inclusive learning, political philosophy, cross-cultural competence, higher education, curriculum reform, language learningAbstract
This article examines the conceptual foundations of multiculturalism and
intercultural communication within contemporary educational environments. Drawing on
scholarship in political philosophy, applied linguistics, and educational theory, the study
explores how cultural diversity manifests in classroom settings and how pedagogical
practices must evolve to accommodate it. The article defines multiculturalism as both a
descriptive reality the coexistence of multiple cultural groups and a normative political
philosophy that seeks the inclusion of historically marginalised communities. Intercultural
communication is distinguished from multicultural communication by its emphasis on
productive cross-cultural interaction rather than mere coexistence. The article surveys
the principal criticisms of multiculturalism, including concerns about social cohesion,
the dilution of individual rights, and the risk of reinforcing dominant power structures.
It concludes that the future of equitable education depends on equipping both educators
and students with the competencies to navigate cultural difference effectively and to build
genuinely inclusive learning spaces.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Khasanova SHAKHRIZODA (Author)
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Shahzod Islomov
Bahrom Abduhalimov
Mahmud Erol Qilich
