InterCom, November 2025
Upcoming Events:
- Date: 17 October, Lightning Talks
- Date: 12 November, 9 am EST, Coffee Hour, M. Faruq Ubaidillah, Who We Are When We Speak: Identity and Intercultural Communication in Language Education
- Date: 10 December, Winter Solstice gathering
We are on social media: Facebook, X, MyTESOL, LinkedIn, YouTube
Letter from the Chair
Nichole McVeigh, PhD, University of Richmond, Virginia, USA
Letter from the Editor
Patricia Moon, English Language Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, US
Applying The Intercultural Communication Needs (ICN) Model and Triple Needs Theory (TNT Framework) In Iranian Classrooms from Theory to Practice
Vahid Ghorbani, Shams University, Iran
This article introduces the Intercultural Communication Needs (ICN) model and its companion Triple Needs Theory (TNT framework). Drawing on both theoretical foundations and classroom-based research in Iran, it highlights how the model fosters intercultural competence among English learners and invites TESOL professionals worldwide to apply and evaluate it in their own contexts.
Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions in International Education
Dana Saif, International Language Academy ILA, McLean, Virginia, USA
This article reflects on how Hofstede’s cultural dimensions, particularly power distance and individualism versus collectivism, influence leadership and classroom dynamics in international education. Drawing on practical examples from the International Language Academy, this highlights strategies for fostering cultural humility, inclusivity, and stronger communication across cultures.
Using The U.S. Naturalization Civics Test for Academic Vocabulary Development and Cultural Exchange
Matt Goode, University of Florida English Language Institute, Gainesville, Florida, US
The US naturalization civics test is an authentic text with multiple benefits for students. It provides relevant information for anyone living in the US, and it contains dozens of Academic Word List items. Citizenship tests from Canada, the UK, and Australia can be used similarly to varying extents.