STRATEGIES FOR OVERCOMING STEREOTYPES AND CULTURAL BARRIERS IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNING

Résumé

 STRATEGIES FOR OVERCOMING STEREOTYPES AND CULTURAL BARRIERS IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNING

Stereotypes and cultural barriers remain among the most persistent obstacles in foreign language learning, limiting learners’ communicative competence, intercultural sensitivity, and overall language proficiency. While linguistic competence is often prioritized in instructional practice, the cultural dimension of communication—particularly learners’ implicit beliefs, prejudices, and culturally rooted expectations—plays a decisive role in shaping their language learning experience. This study investigates the nature of cultural stereotypes, their influence on language acquisition, and evidence-based pedagogical strategies for reducing their negative impact. Drawing on intercultural communication theory, sociolinguistics, and classroom-based empirical research, the paper analyzes how stereotypes affect comprehension, production, pragmatics, and learner engagement. Through a review of international scholarly literature and synthesized findings from recent studies, the research identifies several effective approaches, such as critical cultural awareness training, experiential learning, contact-based pedagogy, reflective practice, and comparative cultural analysis. The paper argues that systematically integrating these strategies into foreign language instruction enhances learners’ intercultural communicative competence and reduces anxiety and miscommunication. Recommendations for curriculum designers, teachers, and language policy makers are provided.