Exploring the Correlation between Foreign Language Enjoyment (FLE) and Culture Intelligence (CQ)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jhet.202515130

Author(s)

Zheng Wang*

Affiliation(s)

Xiamen University Tan Kah Kee College, Zhangzhou, Fujian, China *Corresponding Author.

Abstract

Cultural intelligence (CQ) enhances a person's ability to communicate and engage with people from different cultural backgrounds. As the carrier and container for culture, language is in turn influenced and shaped by culture. In this study, we collected a sample of 182 EFL learners (N = 182) from an ordinary university in Fujian Province in order to explore the correlation between foreign language learning enjoyment and CQ. Statistical analyses revealed that CQ was positively correlated with foreign language enjoyment and positive emotional state. Open-ended questions and qualitative analysis reconfirmed our quantitative results and the important role of CQ in enhancing foreign language enjoyment. The findings suggest that CQ plays a significant role in improving learner’s overall confidence, interest and psychological state in language learning. As learners engage with a foreign language, they often subconsciously enhance their intercultural awareness and CQ, which can positively affect their emotional state and contribute to a more favorable attitude toward language learning. This, in turn, can cultivate their interest in language learning by reducing stress and increasing motivation. CQ and foreign language enjoyment are interrelated and can mutually reinforce each other, creating a positive feedback loop in the language learning process. This positive feedback loop can positively affect learners’ emotional state and contribute to a more favorable psychological well-being.

Keywords

EFL Learners; Cultural Intelligence (CQ); Foreign Language Enjoyment (FLE); Intercultural Awareness

References

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