Adaptasi Komunikasi Antarbudaya Mahasiswa pada Kegiatan Modul Nusantara Pertukaran Mahasiswa Merdeka di Universitas Sumatera Utara

Abstract

This research is entitled "Intercultural Communication Adaptation of Pertukaran Mahasiswa Merdeka (PMM) Students in the Nusantara Module Activity Universitas Sumatera Utara." The purpose of this study is to determine the intercultural communication adaptation of PMM students in the Nusantara Module activity, the challenges and barriers of intercultural communication among PMM students in the Nusantara Module activity, and the implementation of the Nusantara Module at the Universitas Sumatera Utara. The theories and concepts in this study are communication, intercultural communication, intercultural communication adaptation, the Nusantara Module, and PMM students. This study uses a qualitative approach with descriptive research method. The data collection techniques used are in-depth interviews and observations. The Informants in this study consist of eight individual selected based on purposive technique. The Informants are active students participating in the Merdeka Student Exchange (PMM) program at the Universitas Sumatera Utara, representing various universities throughout Indonesia and different Nusantara Module groups. The process of intercultural communication adaptation in this study is analyzed using Guddykunts' Anxiety/Uncertainty Management Theory. The results of this study show that all PMM students are capable of managing anxiety and uncertainty in various ways. These management strategies include strengthening self-identity, preparing mentally, developing positive and open attitudes, seeking information or learning languages through friends, the internet, or experiences, understanding the interlocutor's character, being a good listener, speaking according to the context and conditions, and actively engaging in various activities. The supporting factors for students' adaptation include friends, social support, motivation and goals, personality, previous experiences, environment, and education provided. The inhibiting factors for intercultural communication adaptation among students are language barriers in oral and written communication, personality, cultural values, and non-verbal behavior. Seven out of eight Informants stated that the Nusantara module program greatly facilitated the communication adaptation process for students. In terms of activity preferences, students chose Kebhinekaan as their favorite program.