71 Infusing Animal Science Curricula with Cultural Intelligence

Abstract

Abstract Increasingly, universities across the United States are expecting their undergraduate programs to meet, not only, discipline-specific, knowledge content learning outcomes, but also, soft skills and general education objectives, as well. It is not unusual today that outcomes about diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) are found in either or both program-level and general education learning objectives, including capstone courses. Cultural intelligence is an effective approach to accomplish DEI goals. The purpose of the presentation is two-fold: (1) to discuss the empirical evidence about increasing cultural intelligence in academic programs outside of animal science and (2) the transference of that work into animal science. Curricula to foster cultural intelligence among students includes focusing on deep cultural awareness (implicit biases, privileges and prejudices), diversity education (guest speakers, textbooks, documentaries), and high-impact educational experiences. One of the best strategies is ensuring that all courses are taught by culturally intelligent educators. Increasing a single aspect of cultural intelligence, particularly cultural awareness, improves the environment for students from underrepresented populations which leads to better retention and graduation rates. Five teaching modules with multiple lessons within each, were developed, based on a five-level, progressive model of cultural intelligence, beginning with cultural awareness and ending with cultural proficiency, to infuse into animal science curricula. The first module comprises a basic understanding of cultural concepts and recognizing cultural implications of behavior. The second module comprises elements of culture and their impact on human behavior, including animal care. The third module comprises an integration of cultural knowledge. The fourth module involves social and economic contexts. The fifth module involves negotiating across culture and an intrinsic desire for inclusivity. The presentation will be interactive: the lessons will be demonstrated; assessments developed shared; and the faculty and graduate teaching assistant training sessions experienced. Today’s employment-ready graduates must be culturally intelligent to be able to think critically and solve complex problems in an increasingly diverse and global workplace.