Managing a short international study trip: the case of China

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to discuss the major planning and implementation practices that should be followed in a short term international study trip (IST). The focus throughout is on how to utilize experiential learning to establish cultural competence. Design/methodology/approach The pa...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International journal of educational management 2020-01, Vol.34 (2), p.386-396
Main Authors: Mu, Fengli, Hatch, James
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Business Administration Education
Case studies
Cultural Awareness
Cultural competence
Experiential Learning
Goal setting
Graduate Study
Learning Processes
Masters Programs
MBA programs & graduates
Multiculturalism & pluralism
Program Development
Program Implementation
Skills
Student Needs
Students
Study Abroad
Teaching Methods
Travel
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Summary:Purpose The purpose of this paper is to discuss the major planning and implementation practices that should be followed in a short term international study trip (IST). The focus throughout is on how to utilize experiential learning to establish cultural competence. Design/methodology/approach The paper shows how to plan and manage an international MBA study trip to China using a specific case to illustrate the methods employed. Findings The use of a highly structured approach to an experiential learning exercise combined with a focus on key elements of cultural competencies creates a positive environment and leads to significant focused learning. Originality/value This paper fills three key gaps in the literature. First it uniquely focuses on the implementation of a conceptual framework that incorporates the types of cultural competency related learning that are to take place. Second, it illustrates how to design and implement an IST highlighting two key aspects of experiential learning: providing challenging experiences and encouraging reflection. Third, it focuses on a trip to China which, although one of the most popular destinations for business students, is lightly reviewed in the literature. This study fills a significant gap in the literature dealing with the management of short term study trips.
ISSN:0951-354X
1758-6518
DOI:10.1108/IJEM-06-2019-0204