Revisiting Kim’s Integrative Theory of Communication and Cross-Cultural Adaptation (ITCCA): Insights from a Study of Algerian Students Abroad

Kim’s Integrative Theory of Communication and Cross-Cultural Adaptation (ITCCA) is widely recognized as one of the key contributions to the field of intercultural research. Framed within a constructivist paradigm and based on an ethnographic case study, this article explores the intercultural experiences of Algerian students attending a UK university. As such, it seeks to provide new insights into the impact ofcultural exposure on intercultural learning. The results of the research suggest the need for a refinement of Kim’s theory. The findings also have implications for the policy and practice of educational institutions involved in study abroad programmes.