The Role of Foreign Language Learning as a Background of Tolerance and Cross-Ethnic Interaction Formation of Higher Educational Institutions’ Students

Abstract

The article deals with the role of language study in improving the level of tolerance and cross-ethnic interaction between students of higher educational institutions. The research methodology is based on the combination of general scientific and special methods that was ensured by the introduction of appropriate forms and methods of education, as well as the principles of objectivity, student-centricity, research and its results’ verification. The systemic analysis of normative acts, documents and international experience resulted in deeper understanding of basic notions of research and the importance of foreign language learning in the formation of tolerance and cross-ethnic interaction. At the initial stage of the experiment, low level of the tolerance formation and cross-ethnic interaction in the process of learning a foreign language was determined. This is due to inability to conduct intercultural dialogue, misunderstanding of ethnic and cultural differences in the process of communication. This prompted development and implementation the authors’ educational model, which provided realization of interactive forms and methods of learning as well as students’ involvement into socio-cultural educational environment. The outcomes of final empirical research highlighted positive dynamics of tolerance formation of higher educational institutions’ students when learning the discipline «Foreign Language for Professional Purposes».