Cultural Values and Intercultural Sensitivity among College of Teacher Education Students

Abstract

Most university and college students are susceptible to prejudice, stereotype, or even discrimination towards individuals or groups of people from different cultures. This confluence of concerns has occurred both within and outside the educational sector. As a result of this alarming predicament, this study aims to determines the relationship between cultural values and intercultural sensitivity among College of Teacher Education students officially enrolled for the Academic Year 2022–2023 in the University of Mindanao in Matina, Davao City. With a total population of 2,054 students in the College of Teacher Education program, the researchers obtained a total of 324 respondents, which was calculated using the Raosoft sample size calculator. This study used convenience sampling and a descriptive correlational research design. The Mean, Standard Deviation, and Pearson Product Correlation were utilized as statistical techniques. The overall findings show that the level of cultural values is high, with a mean score of 4.46 and a standard deviation of .38, while the level of intercultural sensitivity is also high, with a mean score of 4.44 and a standard deviation of .40. This indicates that the cultural values and intercultural sensitivity among undergraduate teachers at the University of Mindanao are highly manifested. Furthermore, the p-value of .000, states that there is a significant relationship between cultural values and intercultural sensitivity. The r-value of .622* also indicates a moderately positive (direct) correlation between cultural values and intercultural sensitivity. Finally, the study's overall results affirm that cultural values have a significant (direct) relationship with the intercultural sensitivity of the College of Teachers Education students at the University of Mindanao. It concludes that students better understand and appreciate cultural diversity. In this sense, future educators have practical intercultural communication skills and collaboration among people of diverse cultural backgrounds. Thus, it creates an inclusive and equitable environment for civically competent individuals in a pluralistic society.