This study used a quasi-experimental design to compare the effects of an intercultural development program on students' Cultural Intelligence (CQ) compared with students in a summer research program who did not receive the intervention. Social Learning Theory guided a 9-week student-centered cultural learning course focused on attention, retention, and reproduction of each CQ domain. After the course, students had opportunities to practice their CQ abilities while studying abroad. Pre-assessment CQ determined an
individualized learning plan. Reflective journaling and cultural mentoring were used to maximize student CQ growth. Using multi-level modeling, we observed a statistically significant increase in three CQ domains compared to the comparison control group: cognitive (p<.01), metacognitive (p<.01), and behavioral CQ (p<.01). Motivation CQ scores did not significantly improve (p=0.08). Our results suggest that a university intercultural
development program that intentionally combines a cultural learning course with a study abroad experience may improve students’ CQ.
Some colleges, departments, and study abroad offices have developed cultural development courses and study abroad opportunities designed to help improve students’ cultural awareness, knowledge, and skills. Some evidence suggests combining these approaches can be effective at helping students increase their Cultural Intelligence (CQ). This study examined the effects of a combined semester long, on-campus cultural development course followed by either a three- or six-week faculty-led study abroad program on student CQ. Students in both short-term programs increased in all four CQ domains (motivation, cognitive, metacognitive and behavior CQ) relative to a comparison group. No differences were found between the three- and six-week program for motivation, cognition, and behavior. However, there was a significant difference in metacognitive CQ between the two programs. Our study suggests participating in a semester-long cultural development course prior to a short-term study abroad increases undergraduate students’ motivation, cognitive, metacognitive, and behavior CQ.
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