Communicative adaptation of Indonesian migrant workers: a communication ethnographic study using Dell Hymes SPEAKING framework

Indonesian migrant workers face challenges in adjusting their communication patterns after returning to their country. This study analyzed their communicative adaptations using the communication ethnographic approach and SPEAKING framework from Dell Hymes. Through observation and interviews, this study revealed changes in the setting, communication objectives, participants, and norms faced. The results show that retired migrant workers need to adapt to new communications, such as business presentations and negotiations, but minimal preparation before returning and lack of training afterward are constraints. Research recommendations include the development of more comprehensive empowerment programs, including pre and post-return communication training, to better support their adaptation.