IMPACT OF LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY AND INTERCULTURAL EXPERIENCE ON CONFLICT MANAGEMENT AMONG ACADEMIC STAFF IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between cross-cultural dialogue andconflict management, focusing on the roles of language proficiency and interculturalexperience among academic staff at Kwara State University, Nigeria. Using survey data from272 respondents, the study found that both language proficiency and intercultural experiencepositively impact conflict resolution effectiveness, with intercultural experience showing amore substantial effect. The data were collected from 272 respondents through a structuredquestionnaire, representing a 94.77% valid response rate from the initial sample of 287academic staff. The study was hinged on the theoretical strength of the resource-based view(RBV) which was proposed by Barney in 1991. Multiple regression analysis was used to testtwo null hypotheses. The findings revealed that both language proficiency and interculturalexperience significantly influence resolution effectiveness. Language proficiency had amodest positive impact (β = 0.134, p < 0.01), indicating that increased language skillscontribute to better communication and conflict resolution. Intercultural experiencedemonstrated a stronger positive relationship (β = 0.755, p < 0.00), indicating that individualswith more diverse cultural experiences are better equipped to handle conflicts effectively.The model explained approximately 69.7% of the variance in resolution effectiveness (R² =0.697), demonstrating the substantial influence of language proficiency and interculturalexperience on these outcomes. The study concluded that while language proficiencyfacilitates clearer communication, intercultural experience plays a more substantial role inenhancing conflict resolution capabilities. Recommendations include investing in languagetraining programs and promoting opportunities for intercultural exposure to improveorganizational conflict management strategies.