Fostering the critical perspective in intercultural competenceVassileva, Magdalena (Avtor) intercultural competencecritical intercultural perspectiveL2 Japanese learnersL2 Japanese teacherL2 Japanese teaching methodologyThis study examines an underexplored aspect of intercultural competence, focusing on critical evaluation, communicative criticality, and a critical intercultural perspective. It investigates how an L2 Japanese teacher purposefully integrates a critical approach in an Intercultural Communication course. Insights from the teacher, learners, and institutional authorities reveal a holistic design that blends language and culture through cycles of instruction, discussion, reflection, and evaluation. A key feature is its scaffolding structure and smooth theory-to-practice transitions, supporting critical intercultural development. The teacher plays a vital, evolving role as both mediator and bridge between institutional goals, pedagogy, and learning outcomes.20252026-10-29 13:01:16Članek v reviji190475ISSN pri članku: 2232-3317DOI: 10.4312/ala.15.2.87-121sl