Crossing the Atlantic: Integrating cross-cultural experiences into undergraduate business courses using virtual communities technology

Abstract

ABSTRACTToday's business school academics are tasked with pedagogy that offers students an understanding of the globalization of markets and the cross-cultural communication skills needed in today's business environment. The authors describe how a virtual cross-cultural experience was integrated into an undergraduate business course and used as an innovative pedagogical tool to give students and faculty an opportunity to build cross-cultural communication skills and develop cultural knowledge in ways similar to more costly travel abroad experiences. This experience contributes to competent and globally minded business graduates and faculty who are fit for the challenges of the global marketplace.