Cultural Intelligence and Higher Education's Response to Ensuring Global Success

• In Event: 58.067 - Unequal Access and Cultural Intelligence: Global Student Engagement and Study Abroad Experiences

Abstract

Aligned with the field of international and educational psychology, the concept of cultural intelligence (CQ) presents a new approach to understanding factors that lead to success in the borderless international arena, as well as ways to effectively address acculturation challenges. This study expanded on the concept of cultural intelligence by focusing on factors that contributed to students being interested in studying abroad and their comfortability with interfacing with diverse cultures. The results of this qualitative study revealed four striking themes: “improving their livelihood”, “sense of nationalism”, “accent” and “unsatisfactory experiences with foreigners”. This study highlights the responsibility of institutions to ensure that students are prepared for global success through the development of an international curriculum and effective cultural intelligence training.

Author

• Roblyn Phillita Lewter, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology