Does Exposure to an International Environment Increase our Cultural Intelligence?

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the impact of two kinds of exposure to the international environment on international students' cultural intelligence (CQ). We examined whether students who had the experience of living abroad for a minimum period of six months or those who had participated in international education would have higher CQ than their fellow students who did not have such experiences. An online survey measured the CQ of 359 degree-seeking college students from Indonesia in several countries with CQS (Cultural Intelligence Scale). T-test analysis was conducted to compare the CQ scores between students with different experiences of international exposure. Pearson product-moment and one-way ANOVA analyses were also performed to examine the relationship of CQ with age and level of education. The results indicated no significant difference in CQ between students based on their prior experience living abroad or participating in international education. However, students who had lived abroad before scored higher on CQ's metacognitive and motivational aspects. Older students and students in higher levels of education also showed higher CQ scores. These results provide further discussion on the impact of exposure to the international environment on students' CQ. Some types of exposure to international environment appears to assist the development of some aspects of the CQ of international students. However, the extent of the effects might further depend on other factors. Furthermore, the results also suggested that more agencies could act as alternatives strategies to develop students' intercultural competencies.