Activity system for intercultural competence development at the Facultad de Ciencias Médicas “Enrique Cabrera”, La Habana

Abstract

Introduction: language influences the way of thinking, living and the relationships of speakers because its role for reflecting the realities of each human group and the transmission of knowledge. This means that the communication and learning of English as foreign language includes elements present in the language culture.

Objective: to design a system of activities to build the intercultural competence in medical students of the Facultad de Ciencias Médicas Enrique Cabrera, La Habana, Cuba.

Method: a system of activities is proposed supported by test agenda, documentary study, collection and information gathered through whole research process. Several research methods were used in the study, for instance, the empirical methods (comprising the observational, survey, and interview methods), the theoretical methods (historical-logical analysis, the systemic approach and modeling), also were used the logical thinking procedures and mathematical-statistical methods.

Results: learning English as international language and the corresponding intercultural knowledge has a great value in the English subject. This learning process was supported by the application of a system of activities for training of future doctors, who must learn to communicate in this language, which implies mastering the intercultural contents that allow them to interact efficiently with people, authorities, organizations and works in the countries where they perform their functions.

Conclusions: learning English as international language and the corresponding intercultural knowledge, using a system of activities, is essential for training of medical students at the Facultad de Ciencias Médicas Enrique Cabrera.