Teaching cultural intelligence for a VUCA world

Abstract

This paper seeks to add to the understanding of how to conceptualise and promote intercultural competencies in a VUCA world by reviewing core elements of cultural intelligence and parameters of VUCA. We argue that recommendations for how leaders can positively face VUCA in their organisations and core elements of cultural intelligence conceptually correspond to such an extent that promoting students' cultural intelligence may also equip them with the necessary skills to deal with VUCA. Specifically, teaching cultural intelligence should focus on the role of self-reflection, mindfulness, and self-efficacy. Based on these theoretical propositions, we designed, conducted, and evaluated a university course aimed at promoting students' cultural intelligence and self-efficacy. Quantitative and qualitative data provide evidence for its effectiveness. Overall, the data offer insights into how to teach transferable skills at universities to prepare students to become global leaders, able to confidently engage with cultural diversity in a globalised, VUCA world.