Going global: Faculty development in intercultural communication

This thesis asks "How can a community college most effectively prepare its faculty to teach students to communicate competently in a society that has gone global?" To answer this question, this thesis examines experiential learning theory and determines that experience is key to learning. It also determines that (1) intercultural communication competencies are acquired through experience with other cultures and (2) faculty who possess these competencies are more apt to participate in intercultural activities. An assessment of research and programs helps to determine components of faculty development, and results of a community college survey give an overview of their involvement in faculty development programs. This thesis concludes that successful faculty development programs in intercultural communication must include (1) institutional support, (2) experiential elements, (3) assessment, (4) continuous, in-depth training, (5) a rewards component, and (6) an adequate budget. To complete this research, a faculty development plan, including a timeline and budget, has been designed.