International Business Students' Cross-Cultural Competence Development: The Influence of the Educational Environment

This study explores the role of educational programs in promoting students' cross-cultural competence (CCC) development in international business education. Using constructivist grounded theory methodology (GTM), a comparative analysis of four extensive case studies was conducted within four schools, all of which offer international management education in English for local and international students. This study examines institutional contributions to an environment that supports students' CCC development. A typology model consisting of four educational approaches to students' CCC development is presented based on student experiences. The study provides recommendations regarding the steps that higher educational institutions (HEIs) can take to promote educational environments that support cross-cultural exchange, cultural knowledge creation, and individual and organizational cross-cultural competence development.