In today's rapidly globalizing world, developing global and cultural competency has become essential for student success. As classrooms become increasingly diverse and our world more interconnected, the ability to understand, communicate, and collaborate across cultures is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Research consistently demonstrates that students equipped with these competencies are better prepared for both academic success and future careers in an increasingly diverse society.
Global competency encompasses knowledge, skills, and dispositions that allow individuals to thrive in an interconnected, multicultural world. According to research from the OECD, this includes understanding world regions, global issues, and cultural differences; communicating effectively with people from diverse backgrounds; and appreciating different perspectives.
Cultural competency refers to the capacity to interact respectfully and effectively with people of diverse backgrounds, drawing on an awareness of one's own cultural lens and understanding of other cultures. Research shows that cultural competence in education creates "inclusive learning environments that celebrate diversity" (Eden, 2023).
Culturally responsive teaching practices that build upon diverse cultural assets have been linked to improved academic outcomes, particularly for traditionally marginalized students. According to research published in the Journal of Education, "authentic, culturally relevant teaching is an important method to help shorten achievement gaps and promote positive ethnic-racial identity for students of color."
When curriculum and instruction draw meaningfully on students' cultural backgrounds and lived experiences, learners show higher levels of engagement and motivation. Researchers indicate that "culturally responsive practices are a practical way to affirm diversity, positively affecting academic achievement and student engagement" (Hoytt, 2023).
Global competency encourages students to examine issues from multiple perspectives, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. The Regional Educational Laboratory (REL) Midwest notes that cultural competency is crucial to "increase understanding and use of research to close stark and persistent academic achievement gaps" (Goldston, 2022).
Employers increasingly seek candidates with cross-cultural communication skills and the ability to collaborate in diverse teams. Research indicates that in "the global competitive environment, the competency-based approach and the competencies that individuals need to acquire and develop should be the major focus" (Fejfarová M., 2023).
Students with global competency demonstrate greater adaptability in international contexts. Human resource management research emphasizes the importance of "intercultural personal skills, sensitivity toward foreign norms and values, and the capacity to adapt to new environments" (Bornay-Barrachina, 2019).
Global and cultural competency promote empathy, open-mindedness, and cross-cultural understanding—qualities essential for active, engaged citizenship. In an era of increasing polarization, these competencies empower students to break down stereotypes, celebrate diversity, and work toward a more equitable society.
Research emphasizes "the significance of multilingual education and social equity in creating more equitable and inclusive societies, emphasizing the value of linguistic diversity, cultural understanding, and equal opportunities for all students" (Mouboua, 2023).
To effectively develop these competencies in students:
As we prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, global and cultural competency must be prioritized. The research is clear: these skills enhance academic achievement, prepare students for diverse workplaces, and foster the empathy needed in our interconnected world. By intentionally developing these competencies, educators equip students with essential tools for success in school, career, and life.
ERIC. (2023). Cultural competence in education: Strategies for fostering inclusivity and diversity awareness. ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/379042636_CULTURAL_COMPETENCE_IN_EDUCATION_STRATEGIES_FOR_FOSTERING_INCLUSIVITY_AND_DIVERSITY_AWARENESS
ERIC. (2023). International human resource management: How should employees be managed in an international context. ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/331981993_International_Human_Resource_Management_How_should_employees_be_managed_in_an_international_context
ERIC. (2023). Cross-cultural competence in global HRD: Strategies for developing an inclusive and diverse workforce. ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/381000737_Cross-cultural_competence_in_global_HRD_Strategies_for_developing_an_inclusive_and_diverse_workforce
ERIC. (2023). The competency-based approach and the competencies that individuals need to acquire and develop. Files.eric.ed.gov. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1376557.pdf
IES. (2022). Culturally responsive instruction: Best practices and supports. Institute of Education Sciences. https://ies.ed.gov/learn/blog/culturally-responsive-instruction-best-practices-and-supports
Journal of Education. (2023). Culturally relevant teaching is an important method to help shorten achievement gaps. Files.eric.ed.gov. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1362100.pdf
OECD. (2019). Global competency and intercultural sensitivity. ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/249632095_Global_Competency_and_Intercultural_Sensitivity
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