AMB390 Cultural Intelligence
To view more information for this unit, select Unit Outline from the list below. Please note the teaching period for which the Unit Outline is relevant.
| Unit code: | AMB390 |
|---|---|
| Antirequisite(s): | AMB120 |
| Other requisite(s): | To enrol students must have completed 144cp (or equivalent to three semesters full-time study), have a course GPA of 4.5, which must include a minimum of 48cp of study in BS08 |
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
|
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2027, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | AMB390 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Other Requisite: | To enrol students must have completed 144cp (or equivalent to three semesters full-time study), have a course GPA of 4.5, which must include a minimum of 48cp of study in BS08 |
| Anti-requisite: | AMB120 |
Overview
This unit focuses on developing the skills, behaviours, and attitudes necessary for effective interaction in culturally diverse environments. In an increasingly globalised workforce, cultural awareness, sensitivity, and the ability to navigate cross-cultural situations with confidence and respect are critical. Drawing on Cultural Intelligence (CQ), this unit will equip you with practical intercultural skills and capabilities needed to engage effectively in global networks and multicultural teams. It lays a strong foundation for studying, working, and leading in culturally diverse settings. This unit is specifically designed for students enrolled in BS08 Bachelor of Business - International.
This is a designated unit which is essential to your course progression. Designated units include professional experience units, units requiring the development of particular skills, and units requiring demonstration of certain personal qualities. If you fail to achieve a satisfactory level of performance in a designated unit, you may be excluded from enrolment or will be put on academic probation. If you fail a designated unit twice within your course, you may be excluded. Supplementary assessment is not available on designated units.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Identify and analyse the key factors that impact the effectiveness of communication across different cultural settings and among individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. [KS 1.1, HO 2.1, IC 6.1]
- Critically evaluate real-world culturally diverse situations and cases and formulate culturally intelligent business recommendations. [KS 1.2, HO 2.2, IC 6.1 ]
- Drawing on cultural intelligence, reflect on and assess both your own strengths and limitations, including those of others, in interactions within diverse cultural contexts. [PC 3.1, TS 4.1, SE 5.2, IC 6.1]
- Use your cultural intelligence personal profile to compare and contrast and reflect on your cultural behavioural preferences and values from the start of the semester to the end of your exchange. [PC 3.1, TS 4.1, IC 6.1]
Content
Key topics covered in this unit:
- The concept of culture, both visible and invisible aspects
- Principles of intercultural communication
- An introduction to cultural intelligence and its four core components
- Practical strategies for building cultural intelligence
- Barriers to effective cross-cultural communication, such as ethnocentrism, bias, and prejudice
- Cultural preferences regarding rules and relationships
- The interplay between language and culture
- Different communication styles across cultures
- The role of non-verbal communication in cultural contexts
- Real-world case studies highlighting cultural dynamics
- Navigating international experiences in study, work, and everyday life
- Adjusting to new cultural environments, including transitions and managing culture shock.
QUT Business Capabilities (Undergraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
2.2 Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
3.2 Communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to engage, inform, and influence diverse audiences using appropriate technologies and presentation formats across varied business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
4.2 Collaborate effectively in diverse and digitally enabled team environments, applying teamwork knowledge and skills to achieve shared goals.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles to analyse and respond to business issues with integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible and sustainable business practices to address national and global business challenges in ways that create long-term value.
Learning Approaches
Each week, you will participate in learning activities designed to both inform and actively engage you with key concepts related to developing cultural intelligence. Sessions will be interactive and will require you to complete assigned readings in advance. At the commencement of the unit, you will complete a cultural intelligence self-assessment, which will be repeated upon completion of the unit. This assessment evaluates individual capabilities and cultural behavioural preferences against global benchmarks and norms, providing valuable insights into personal development and intercultural competence.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessments in this unit include a reflection on personal cultural intelligence (CQ) scores and a real-world case study involving a multicultural team. These assessments are designed to encourage you to critically evaluate your own intercultural competencies and apply theoretical concepts to practical, globally relevant international business situations. By engaging with authentic case material and self-reflective activities, you will develop a deeper understanding of how cultural intelligence influences teamwork, leadership, and decision-making in diverse organisational contexts. Further details are available on Canvas.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Cultural Intelligence Reflection
You will prepare a report based on your cultural intelligence (CQ) assessment results from the beginning of the semester (T1 CQ assessment). The report will analyse key strengths and weaknesses across CQ dimensions, identify areas for improvement, and discuss how these insights can be applied to real-world, culturally diverse contexts.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.2), PC (3.1),TS (4.1), IC (6.1)
Assessment: Reflective Journal
You will develop a reflective journal focusing on your cultural intelligence experiences throughout your exchange period. This journal should capture both the opportunities and challenges you encounter, as well as any observed changes in your cultural intelligence during this time. Through critical self-reflection, you will be encouraged to connect theory with practice by examining how your intercultural interactions have influenced your attitudes, behaviours, and understanding of cultural diversity.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.1) SE (5.2), IC (6.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resources for this unit are drawn from the recommended textbook, scholarly journal articles, and industry-based materials. The QUT Readings List available on Canvas provides access to all resources used throughout the unit.
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
Liu, S, Volčič, Z & Gallois, C. (2023). Introducing Intercultural Communication: Global Cultures and Contexts. Fourth Edition. London: Sage Publishing
Other
A range of other resources, including online videos, will be provided on the Canvas site or viewed in lectures and tutorials.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with this unit.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Undergraduate) 2027
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO2, Reflective Journal
KS (1.1): Discipline Knowledge
Relates to: ULO1
KS (1.2): Technical and Technological Skills
Relates to: ULO2, Cultural Intelligence Reflection
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal
SE (5.2): Global Social Responsibility
Relates to: ULO3, Reflective Journal
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS08 Bachelor of Business - International
- Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
Relates to: ULO1 - Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI, and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Relates to: ULO2, Cultural Intelligence Reflection - Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
Relates to: ULO1 - Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Relates to: ULO2, Reflective Journal - Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal - Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible and sustainable business practices to address national and global business challenges in ways that create long-term value.
Relates to: ULO3, Reflective Journal - Develop and apply intercultural awareness and communication strategies through global mobility and cross-cultural learning experiences, demonstrating adaptability and respect in diverse international business contexts.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2027, Online
| Unit code: | AMB390 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Other Requisite: | To enrol students must have completed 144cp (or equivalent to three semesters full-time study), have a course GPA of 4.5, which must include a minimum of 48cp of study in BS08 |
| Anti-requisite: | AMB120 |
Overview
This unit focuses on developing the skills, behaviours, and attitudes necessary for effective interaction in culturally diverse environments. In an increasingly globalised workforce, cultural awareness, sensitivity, and the ability to navigate cross-cultural situations with confidence and respect are critical. Drawing on Cultural Intelligence (CQ), this unit will equip you with practical intercultural skills and capabilities needed to engage effectively in global networks and multicultural teams. It lays a strong foundation for studying, working, and leading in culturally diverse settings. This unit is specifically designed for students enrolled in BS08 Bachelor of Business - International.
This is a designated unit which is essential to your course progression. Designated units include professional experience units, units requiring the development of particular skills, and units requiring demonstration of certain personal qualities. If you fail to achieve a satisfactory level of performance in a designated unit, you may be excluded from enrolment or will be put on academic probation. If you fail a designated unit twice within your course, you may be excluded. Supplementary assessment is not available on designated units.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Identify and analyse the key factors that impact the effectiveness of communication across different cultural settings and among individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. [KS 1.1, HO 2.1, IC 6.1]
- Critically evaluate real-world culturally diverse situations and cases and formulate culturally intelligent business recommendations. [KS 1.2, HO 2.2, IC 6.1 ]
- Drawing on cultural intelligence, reflect on and assess both your own strengths and limitations, including those of others, in interactions within diverse cultural contexts. [PC 3.1, TS 4.1, SE 5.2, IC 6.1]
- Use your cultural intelligence personal profile to compare and contrast and reflect on your cultural behavioural preferences and values from the start of the semester to the end of your exchange. [PC 3.1, TS 4.1, IC 6.1]
Content
Key topics covered in this unit:
- The concept of culture, both visible and invisible aspects
- Principles of intercultural communication
- An introduction to cultural intelligence and its four core components
- Practical strategies for building cultural intelligence
- Barriers to effective cross-cultural communication, such as ethnocentrism, bias, and prejudice
- Cultural preferences regarding rules and relationships
- The interplay between language and culture
- Different communication styles across cultures
- The role of non-verbal communication in cultural contexts
- Real-world case studies highlighting cultural dynamics
- Navigating international experiences in study, work, and everyday life
- Adjusting to new cultural environments, including transitions and managing culture shock.
QUT Business Capabilities (Undergraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
2.2 Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
3.2 Communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to engage, inform, and influence diverse audiences using appropriate technologies and presentation formats across varied business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
4.2 Collaborate effectively in diverse and digitally enabled team environments, applying teamwork knowledge and skills to achieve shared goals.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles to analyse and respond to business issues with integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible and sustainable business practices to address national and global business challenges in ways that create long-term value.
Learning Approaches
Each week, you will participate in learning activities designed to both inform and actively engage you with key concepts related to developing cultural intelligence. Sessions will be interactive and will require you to complete assigned readings in advance. At the commencement of the unit, you will complete a cultural intelligence self-assessment, which will be repeated upon completion of the unit. This assessment evaluates individual capabilities and cultural behavioural preferences against global benchmarks and norms, providing valuable insights into personal development and intercultural competence.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessments in this unit include a reflection on personal cultural intelligence (CQ) scores and a real-world case study involving a multicultural team. These assessments are designed to encourage you to critically evaluate your own intercultural competencies and apply theoretical concepts to practical, globally relevant international business situations. By engaging with authentic case material and self-reflective activities, you will develop a deeper understanding of how cultural intelligence influences teamwork, leadership, and decision-making in diverse organisational contexts. Further details are available on Canvas.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Cultural Intelligence Reflection
You will prepare a report based on your cultural intelligence (CQ) assessment results from the beginning of the semester (T1 CQ assessment). The report will analyse key strengths and weaknesses across CQ dimensions, identify areas for improvement, and discuss how these insights can be applied to real-world, culturally diverse contexts.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.2), PC (3.1),TS (4.1), IC (6.1)
Assessment: Reflective Journal
You will develop a reflective journal focusing on your cultural intelligence experiences throughout your exchange period. This journal should capture both the opportunities and challenges you encounter, as well as any observed changes in your cultural intelligence during this time. Through critical self-reflection, you will be encouraged to connect theory with practice by examining how your intercultural interactions have influenced your attitudes, behaviours, and understanding of cultural diversity.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.1) SE (5.2), IC (6.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resources for this unit are drawn from the recommended textbook, scholarly journal articles, and industry-based materials. The QUT Readings List available on Canvas provides access to all resources used throughout the unit.
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
Liu, S, Volčič, Z & Gallois, C. (2023). Introducing Intercultural Communication: Global Cultures and Contexts. Fourth Edition. London: Sage Publishing
Other
A range of other resources, including online videos, will be provided on the Canvas site or viewed in lectures and tutorials.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with this unit.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Undergraduate) 2027
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO2, Reflective Journal
KS (1.1): Discipline Knowledge
Relates to: ULO1
KS (1.2): Technical and Technological Skills
Relates to: ULO2, Cultural Intelligence Reflection
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal
SE (5.2): Global Social Responsibility
Relates to: ULO3, Reflective Journal
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS08 Bachelor of Business - International
- Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
Relates to: ULO1 - Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI, and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Relates to: ULO2, Cultural Intelligence Reflection - Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
Relates to: ULO1 - Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Relates to: ULO2, Reflective Journal - Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal - Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible and sustainable business practices to address national and global business challenges in ways that create long-term value.
Relates to: ULO3, Reflective Journal - Develop and apply intercultural awareness and communication strategies through global mobility and cross-cultural learning experiences, demonstrating adaptability and respect in diverse international business contexts.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2027, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | AMB390 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Other Requisite: | To enrol students must have completed 144cp (or equivalent to three semesters full-time study), have a course GPA of 4.5, which must include a minimum of 48cp of study in BS08 |
| Anti-requisite: | AMB120 |
| Coordinator: | Charmaine Glavas | charmaine.glavas@qut.edu.au |
Overview
This unit focuses on developing the skills, behaviours, and attitudes necessary for effective interaction in culturally diverse environments. In an increasingly globalised workforce, cultural awareness, sensitivity, and the ability to navigate cross-cultural situations with confidence and respect are critical. Drawing on Cultural Intelligence (CQ), this unit will equip you with practical intercultural skills and capabilities needed to engage effectively in global networks and multicultural teams. It lays a strong foundation for studying, working, and leading in culturally diverse settings. This unit is specifically designed for students enrolled in BS08 Bachelor of Business - International.
This is a designated unit which is essential to your course progression. Designated units include professional experience units, units requiring the development of particular skills, and units requiring demonstration of certain personal qualities. If you fail to achieve a satisfactory level of performance in a designated unit, you may be excluded from enrolment or will be put on academic probation. If you fail a designated unit twice within your course, you may be excluded. Supplementary assessment is not available on designated units.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Identify and analyse the key factors that impact the effectiveness of communication across different cultural settings and among individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. [KS 1.1, HO 2.1, IC 6.1]
- Critically evaluate real-world culturally diverse situations and cases and formulate culturally intelligent business recommendations. [KS 1.2, HO 2.2, IC 6.1 ]
- Drawing on cultural intelligence, reflect on and assess both your own strengths and limitations, including those of others, in interactions within diverse cultural contexts. [PC 3.1, TS 4.1, SE 5.2, IC 6.1]
- Use your cultural intelligence personal profile to compare and contrast and reflect on your cultural behavioural preferences and values from the start of the semester to the end of your exchange. [PC 3.1, TS 4.1, IC 6.1]
Content
Key topics covered in this unit:
- The concept of culture, both visible and invisible aspects
- Principles of intercultural communication
- An introduction to cultural intelligence and its four core components
- Practical strategies for building cultural intelligence
- Barriers to effective cross-cultural communication, such as ethnocentrism, bias, and prejudice
- Cultural preferences regarding rules and relationships
- The interplay between language and culture
- Different communication styles across cultures
- The role of non-verbal communication in cultural contexts
- Real-world case studies highlighting cultural dynamics
- Navigating international experiences in study, work, and everyday life
- Adjusting to new cultural environments, including transitions and managing culture shock.
QUT Business Capabilities (Undergraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
2.2 Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
3.2 Communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to engage, inform, and influence diverse audiences using appropriate technologies and presentation formats across varied business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
4.2 Collaborate effectively in diverse and digitally enabled team environments, applying teamwork knowledge and skills to achieve shared goals.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles to analyse and respond to business issues with integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible and sustainable business practices to address national and global business challenges in ways that create long-term value.
Learning Approaches
Each week, you will participate in learning activities designed to both inform and actively engage you with key concepts related to developing cultural intelligence. Sessions will be interactive and will require you to complete assigned readings in advance. At the commencement of the unit, you will complete a cultural intelligence self-assessment, which will be repeated upon completion of the unit. This assessment evaluates individual capabilities and cultural behavioural preferences against global benchmarks and norms, providing valuable insights into personal development and intercultural competence.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessments in this unit include a reflection on personal cultural intelligence (CQ) scores and a real-world case study involving a multicultural team. These assessments are designed to encourage you to critically evaluate your own intercultural competencies and apply theoretical concepts to practical, globally relevant international business situations. By engaging with authentic case material and self-reflective activities, you will develop a deeper understanding of how cultural intelligence influences teamwork, leadership, and decision-making in diverse organisational contexts. Further details are available on Canvas.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Cultural Intelligence Reflection
You will prepare a report based on your cultural intelligence (CQ) assessment results from the beginning of the semester (T1 CQ assessment). The report will analyse key strengths and weaknesses across CQ dimensions, identify areas for improvement, and discuss how these insights can be applied to real-world, culturally diverse contexts.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.2), PC (3.1),TS (4.1), IC (6.1)
Assessment: Reflective Journal
You will develop a reflective journal focusing on your cultural intelligence experiences throughout your exchange period. This journal should capture both the opportunities and challenges you encounter, as well as any observed changes in your cultural intelligence during this time. Through critical self-reflection, you will be encouraged to connect theory with practice by examining how your intercultural interactions have influenced your attitudes, behaviours, and understanding of cultural diversity.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.1) SE (5.2), IC (6.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resources for this unit are drawn from the recommended textbook, scholarly journal articles, and industry-based materials. The QUT Readings List available on Canvas provides access to all resources used throughout the unit.
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
Liu, S, Volčič, Z & Gallois, C. (2023). Introducing Intercultural Communication: Global Cultures and Contexts. Fourth Edition. London: Sage Publishing
Other
A range of other resources, including online videos, will be provided on the Canvas site or viewed in lectures and tutorials.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with this unit.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Undergraduate) 2027
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO2, Reflective Journal
KS (1.1): Discipline Knowledge
Relates to: ULO1
KS (1.2): Technical and Technological Skills
Relates to: ULO2, Cultural Intelligence Reflection
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal
SE (5.2): Global Social Responsibility
Relates to: ULO3, Reflective Journal
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS08 Bachelor of Business - International
- Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
Relates to: ULO1 - Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI, and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Relates to: ULO2, Cultural Intelligence Reflection - Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
Relates to: ULO1 - Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Relates to: ULO2, Reflective Journal - Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal - Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible and sustainable business practices to address national and global business challenges in ways that create long-term value.
Relates to: ULO3, Reflective Journal - Develop and apply intercultural awareness and communication strategies through global mobility and cross-cultural learning experiences, demonstrating adaptability and respect in diverse international business contexts.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2027, Online
| Unit code: | AMB390 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Other Requisite: | To enrol students must have completed 144cp (or equivalent to three semesters full-time study), have a course GPA of 4.5, which must include a minimum of 48cp of study in BS08 |
| Anti-requisite: | AMB120 |
Overview
This unit focuses on developing the skills, behaviours, and attitudes necessary for effective interaction in culturally diverse environments. In an increasingly globalised workforce, cultural awareness, sensitivity, and the ability to navigate cross-cultural situations with confidence and respect are critical. Drawing on Cultural Intelligence (CQ), this unit will equip you with practical intercultural skills and capabilities needed to engage effectively in global networks and multicultural teams. It lays a strong foundation for studying, working, and leading in culturally diverse settings. This unit is specifically designed for students enrolled in BS08 Bachelor of Business - International.
This is a designated unit which is essential to your course progression. Designated units include professional experience units, units requiring the development of particular skills, and units requiring demonstration of certain personal qualities. If you fail to achieve a satisfactory level of performance in a designated unit, you may be excluded from enrolment or will be put on academic probation. If you fail a designated unit twice within your course, you may be excluded. Supplementary assessment is not available on designated units.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Identify and analyse the key factors that impact the effectiveness of communication across different cultural settings and among individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. [KS 1.1, HO 2.1, IC 6.1]
- Critically evaluate real-world culturally diverse situations and cases and formulate culturally intelligent business recommendations. [KS 1.2, HO 2.2, IC 6.1 ]
- Drawing on cultural intelligence, reflect on and assess both your own strengths and limitations, including those of others, in interactions within diverse cultural contexts. [PC 3.1, TS 4.1, SE 5.2, IC 6.1]
- Use your cultural intelligence personal profile to compare and contrast and reflect on your cultural behavioural preferences and values from the start of the semester to the end of your exchange. [PC 3.1, TS 4.1, IC 6.1]
Content
Key topics covered in this unit:
- The concept of culture, both visible and invisible aspects
- Principles of intercultural communication
- An introduction to cultural intelligence and its four core components
- Practical strategies for building cultural intelligence
- Barriers to effective cross-cultural communication, such as ethnocentrism, bias, and prejudice
- Cultural preferences regarding rules and relationships
- The interplay between language and culture
- Different communication styles across cultures
- The role of non-verbal communication in cultural contexts
- Real-world case studies highlighting cultural dynamics
- Navigating international experiences in study, work, and everyday life
- Adjusting to new cultural environments, including transitions and managing culture shock.
QUT Business Capabilities (Undergraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
2.2 Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
3.2 Communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to engage, inform, and influence diverse audiences using appropriate technologies and presentation formats across varied business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
4.2 Collaborate effectively in diverse and digitally enabled team environments, applying teamwork knowledge and skills to achieve shared goals.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles to analyse and respond to business issues with integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible and sustainable business practices to address national and global business challenges in ways that create long-term value.
Learning Approaches
Each week, you will participate in learning activities designed to both inform and actively engage you with key concepts related to developing cultural intelligence. Sessions will be interactive and will require you to complete assigned readings in advance. At the commencement of the unit, you will complete a cultural intelligence self-assessment, which will be repeated upon completion of the unit. This assessment evaluates individual capabilities and cultural behavioural preferences against global benchmarks and norms, providing valuable insights into personal development and intercultural competence.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessments in this unit include a reflection on personal cultural intelligence (CQ) scores and a real-world case study involving a multicultural team. These assessments are designed to encourage you to critically evaluate your own intercultural competencies and apply theoretical concepts to practical, globally relevant international business situations. By engaging with authentic case material and self-reflective activities, you will develop a deeper understanding of how cultural intelligence influences teamwork, leadership, and decision-making in diverse organisational contexts. Further details are available on Canvas.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Cultural Intelligence Reflection
You will prepare a report based on your cultural intelligence (CQ) assessment results from the beginning of the semester (T1 CQ assessment). The report will analyse key strengths and weaknesses across CQ dimensions, identify areas for improvement, and discuss how these insights can be applied to real-world, culturally diverse contexts.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.2), PC (3.1),TS (4.1), IC (6.1)
Assessment: Reflective Journal
You will develop a reflective journal focusing on your cultural intelligence experiences throughout your exchange period. This journal should capture both the opportunities and challenges you encounter, as well as any observed changes in your cultural intelligence during this time. Through critical self-reflection, you will be encouraged to connect theory with practice by examining how your intercultural interactions have influenced your attitudes, behaviours, and understanding of cultural diversity.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.1) SE (5.2), IC (6.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resources for this unit are drawn from the recommended textbook, scholarly journal articles, and industry-based materials. The QUT Readings List available on Canvas provides access to all resources used throughout the unit.
Resource Materials
Recommended text(s)
Liu, S, Volčič, Z & Gallois, C. (2023). Introducing Intercultural Communication: Global Cultures and Contexts. Fourth Edition. London: Sage Publishing
Other
A range of other resources, including online videos, will be provided on the Canvas site or viewed in lectures and tutorials.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with this unit.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Undergraduate) 2027
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO2, Reflective Journal
KS (1.1): Discipline Knowledge
Relates to: ULO1
KS (1.2): Technical and Technological Skills
Relates to: ULO2, Cultural Intelligence Reflection
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal
SE (5.2): Global Social Responsibility
Relates to: ULO3, Reflective Journal
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS08 Bachelor of Business - International
- Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
Relates to: ULO1 - Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI, and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Relates to: ULO2, Cultural Intelligence Reflection - Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
Relates to: ULO1 - Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Relates to: ULO2, Reflective Journal - Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal - Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
Relates to: ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible and sustainable business practices to address national and global business challenges in ways that create long-term value.
Relates to: ULO3, Reflective Journal - Develop and apply intercultural awareness and communication strategies through global mobility and cross-cultural learning experiences, demonstrating adaptability and respect in diverse international business contexts.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, ULO3, ULO4, Cultural Intelligence Reflection, Reflective Journal