Chapter 1. Advancing intercultural communicative competence in future specialists in IT and Computer Science: development and implementation of the 'Navigating Cultural Diversity' course project

This chapter examines the critical importance of advancing intercultural communicative competence (ICC) among future specialists in IT and computer science, addressing the challenges posed by increasing globalization and Ukraine's integration into the European economic and cultural landscape. Intercultural communicative competence is conceptualized as a dynamic interplay of knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors that enable effective, respectful communication and collaboration across diverse cultural settings. It represents a fundamental prerequisite for professionals engaged in international teams, navigating cross-cultural business environments, and contributing to the global digital economy.

The relevance of ICC for Ukrainian students, particularly in technical fields, is underscored by the context of Ukraine’s integration into the European Union and the demands of the multicultural workplace. A comprehensive needs analysis conducted with 136 first- and second-year students from Lviv Polytechnic National University revealed significant gaps in their confidence and preparedness for cross-cultural communication, thereby highlighting the necessity for targeted educational interventions.

In response to these findings, the course "Navigating Cultural Diversity: Effective Business Communication in the European Economic Landscape" was developed to address these specific gaps. This innovative program combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, aiming to enhance students' cultural awareness, multilingual capabilities, and intercultural communication skills. The curriculum features lectures, workshops, educational quests, and round-table discussions, employing interactive and experiential learning methodologies. Practical components such as case studies, role-playing exercises, and simulations equip students to effectively manage real-world multicultural scenarios.

Preliminary outcomes indicate measurable improvements in students' cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and confidence in professional intercultural communication. By bridging the divide between technical expertise and intercultural competence, the course provides students with essential tools for thriving in international teams and collaborative projects.

This chapter concludes by emphasizing the imperative of embedding ICC into higher education curricula, particularly for technical disciplines such as IT and computer science. It advocates for ongoing refinement and broader implementation of such courses to align with the evolving demands of the global economy.