An Experiential Approach to Cross-Cultural Learning: A Review and Integration of Competencies for Successful Expatriate Adaptation

Abstract

This article outlines a taxonomy of skills necessary for cross-cultural learning based on Kolb's experiential learning theory. Review of the empirical literature on expatriate adaptation identifies 73 skills that cluster into 10 thematic cross-cultural learning competencies. From this list, we propose here 7 essential and 2 developmental competencies for learning from cross-cultural experience. We describe the process of cross-cultural learning as the interaction between person and culture. We propose relationships between culture, learning, and success in cross-cultural adaptation and extend the concept of learning style to account for the influence of culture. Finally, we explore the implications for management development and education pedagogy.

Learning styles and typologies of cultural differences: A theoretical and empirical comparison

“…In the task of examining crosscultural differences in learning styles and cross-cultural learning programs, Kolb's model has been applied in the fields of cross-cultural and international studies (e.g., Hughes-Wiener, 1986;Katz, 1988;Hoppe, 1990;Yuen & Lee, 1994;Jackson, 1995;Auyeng & Sands, 1996;McMurray, 1998;Hayashi, 1999;Fridland, 2002;Yamazaki & Kayes, 2004;Barmeryer, 2004;etc. ).…”

The relationship between Kolb's experiential learning styles and Big Five personality traits in international managers

“…This interest is driven by recent attention to the influence of Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory (ELT) (1984) on international management. Studies include the influence of learning style on cultural intelligence of global managers (Li, Mobley & Kelly, 2013), acquisition of managerial tacit knowledge (Armstrong & Mahmud, 2008) , cross-cultural learning and competencies of expatriate managers (Yamazaki & Kayes, 2004), and expatriate management training effectiveness (Lee & Li, 2008). Further investigation into the degree to which Kolb's experiential learning styles overlap with personality traits that have been more widely studied in international management literature could provide insights into whether experiential learning styles should be applied to the assessment, selection, training and development of international managers.…”

Managing diversity: academic’s perspective on culture and teaching

“…This lack of neutrality can create problems for students of ethnic diversity, placing barriers in the adjustment to differing cultures and environments and creating problems to what Yamazaki and Kayes (2004) refer to as 'cross-cultural adaptation' .…”