Abstract

The Chilean Ministry of Education has introduced an intercultural communication-oriented approach to teaching EFL in consideration of our globalized society and the local social composition of Chile. Although initial teacher education programs have progressively implemented this approach, in-service teachers have not necessarily been educated regarding their role as intercultural mediators. This study's objective was to analyze the beliefs EFL teachers from the La Araucania region hold regarding their role as intercultural mediators. A qualitative approach was adopted. Sixteen teachers participated in semi-structured interviews and one focus group. Three beliefs teachers hold regarding the intercultural mediator role: (a) a proponent of positive intercultural attitudes, (b) an expander of intercultural contexts, and (c) a guide in finding purpose in learning.