Teaching Intercultural Competence: Challenges and Opportunities

This paper presents a case study analysis of Intercultural Studies electives delivered to students as part of a Business Studies degree programme in Dundalk Institute of Technology, Ireland. A survey captured students’ perceptions of the existing Intercultural Studies electives. Much of the literature endorses the importance of intercultural competence for students in general, and business graduates in particular, in a globalised world.  The nature and range of active learning methods currently employed on this elective are also cited in the literature as being conducive to building intercultural competence.  This was further evidenced in the findings from the student survey conducted. The conclusions of the case study present some clear opportunities regarding both the challenges and the importance of building awareness, knowledge and skills among graduates using a range of relevant teaching and learning methods.