Bridging Communication Gaps: A Collaborative Research Initiative with Budi Waluyo from Walailak University, Thailand

Utami Widiati

In today’s interconnected era, effective cross-border communication underscores the importance of foreign language proficiency. Universitas Negeri Malang takes a significant stride with an ambitious research initiative delving into communication willingness within the Indonesian EFL landscape. This pioneering study zeroes in on deciphering the motivational, contextual, metacognitive, and communicative elements that shape the landscape of English language interaction.

Leading the research team is Prof. Utami Widiati, M.A., Ph.D., supported by Prof. Dr. Sri Rachmajanti, Dip. TESL., M.Pd., and a doctoral student researcher Suci Nugrah Amalia. The team is honored to collaborate with Budi Waluyo, a foreign researcher from Walailak University, Thailand.

This research initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly the goal of “Quality Education.” By understanding the dynamics of English language communication, the project aims to enhance language education, foster global communication, and promote cultural understanding. The compatibility of this research with the SDGs underscores the commitment to not only advancing academic knowledge but also contributing to global educational development.

The collaboration with Budi Waluyo adds an international dimension to the research, enriching the perspectives and methodologies employed. It signifies a shared vision between Universitas Negeri Malang, Indonesia, and Walailak University, Thailand, to elevate language education and communication skills.

Funded by Universitas Negeri Malang, this research is part of a broader dissertation project that promises to shed light on the complexities of language communication in a globalized world. It is a testament to the university’s dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and international collaboration.

As we move towards a future where communication is key, this research project stands as a beacon of hope and a model for academic collaboration. It not only seeks to understand the intricacies of language communication but also strives to build bridges between cultures and nations.