Internalization of Civic Culture Among International Students Through Cross-Cultural Engagement at Universities in the Special Region of Yogyakarta

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the internalization of civic culture among international students through cross-cultural engagement programs in higher education institutions in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. It employs a qualitative literature review approach using secondary sources, including scholarly journal articles, academic books, proceedings, research reports, and relevant policy documents. The data were analyzed thematically across three focuses: intercultural interaction among international students, cross-cultural engagement as a social learning process, and the internalization of civic culture. The findings indicate that cross-cultural engagement provides opportunities for cultural adaptation, intercultural communication, experience sharing, and understanding diversity. Through social learning, international students observe, interact with, and practice social values and behaviors in multicultural environments. These processes contribute to civic culture development, reflected in tolerance, appreciation of diversity, cooperation, mutual respect, inclusive communication, and social participation. This study contributes to civic education by conceptualizing cross-cultural engagement not merely as a means of cultural adaptation but also as a social learning environment that supports civic culture internalization and fosters multicultural social relations in higher education.