Simmons College

Culturally Intelligent Leaders

Description: In today's global economy, the ability to interact effectively across cultures is a fundamental job requirement and critical leadership competence. This course is designed to develop knowledge and skills in the areas of optimizing human performance, cultural intelligence, diversity and inclusion, and leading and managing intercultural organizations. This course will explore the implications of culture on managerial and leadership approaches, business practices, communication and interpersonal relations, organizational and individual performances as well as on human resource management dimensions, in both international and domestic settings. Global cultures, subcultures, and domestic cultures will be considered. The ethical and sustainable implications of managing cultures and diversity will be examined. By learning about the dilemmas and opportunities that are presented in international and multi-cultural work environments, students will be better able to function in an increasingly global business world. Students will be positioned to lead in a way that is more culturally competent, effectively addressing critical human resource issues, challenges, and opportunities that will arise and leveraging cultural differences as a competitive talent management advantage. The overall goal of this course is to convey a way of thinking that increases students? abilities to understand the influence of national and cultural boundaries on individuals, organizations, and on organizational practices. Special emphasis will be placed on the management of people, with a particular focus on women, and groups in international organizations. Students will also learn how to apply cultural intelligence (CQ) at all levels of an organization and will take a Global Mindset Inventory to asses personal levels of cross cultural literacy and preparation for overseas assignments. Summer 13 dates: Face to face meetings: Friday 5/17, 6-9pm; Saturdays: 6/1, 6/15, 6/22, 10-3pm; Sunday, 6/2, 10-3pm.
Plus online work.