Enhancing Intercultural Competence and Teamwork in Business Students: A Problem-Based Learning Approach Across Academic Levels

Abstract

In an era of global interconnectedness, the cultivation of Intercultural Competence (IC) and teamwork (TW) is imperative for business students. This research project, conducted at XXXX Business School in XXXX, explores the potential of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) in fostering IC and TW among business students. The study involved the design and implementation of three PBL sessions in business undergraduate and master's courses, with students working in small groups. The research investigated the impact of PBL on IC and TW development and assessed how the academic level (undergraduate vs. master's) influences outcomes. Data collection included systematic observation and questionnaires. Content analysis of students’ productions was carried out. Findings underscore the potential of PBL in developing IC, with room for improvement in specific areas, especially among undergraduate students. Both undergraduate and master students expressed improvements in their TW as a result of participating in PBL, with master students perceiving a slightly greater impact.

Keywords: Intercultural Competence, Teamwork, Problem-Based Learning, Business Studies, Undergraduate studies, Master studies