Supporting Positive Peace on Campus: Cultural Intelligence as a Tool for Conflict Resolution in University Settings
Institutional Affiliation
Nova Southeastern University
Start Date
January 2026
End Date
January 2026
Proposal Type
Presentation
Proposal Format
On-campus
Proposal Description
Abstract
In the modern workplace, cultural intelligence (CQ) and conflict resolution skills are essential for success. This study examined the role cultural intelligence plays in resolving conflicts within university settings. Using a phenomenological approach, it explored the lived experiences of 12 university staff working in administrative, management, or counseling roles as they applied cultural intelligence for communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyze the findings. The study applied Ang and Earley’s four-factor model of cultural intelligence to help structure the interpretation of the findings, and Bennett’s developmental model of intercultural sensitivity as an additional lens for understanding participants’ experiences. Preliminary results point to the importance of building trust in cross-cultural relationships. Key components of effective, CQ-informed conflict resolution include inclusive communication and decision-making, ongoing self-awareness, intentional communication choices, and flexibility in adapting approaches to diverse cultural contexts. The findings also highlight that maintaining order and ensuring the safety and well-being of all involved may require the confident use of authority in certain situations. This study underscores the need to integrate cultural intelligence training into professional development programs to enhance intercultural competence among university staff. Ultimately, the research aims to contribute to the advancement of cross-cultural skills training and empower individuals and organizations to achieve greater success in intercultural communication and conflict resolution.
Keywords: Cultural intelligence, intercultural communication, intercultural competence, conflict resolution, university staff, self-awareness.
Supporting Positive Peace on Campus: Cultural Intelligence as a Tool for Conflict Resolution in University Settings
Abstract
In the modern workplace, cultural intelligence (CQ) and conflict resolution skills are essential for success. This study examined the role cultural intelligence plays in resolving conflicts within university settings. Using a phenomenological approach, it explored the lived experiences of 12 university staff working in administrative, management, or counseling roles as they applied cultural intelligence for communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyze the findings. The study applied Ang and Earley’s four-factor model of cultural intelligence to help structure the interpretation of the findings, and Bennett’s developmental model of intercultural sensitivity as an additional lens for understanding participants’ experiences. Preliminary results point to the importance of building trust in cross-cultural relationships. Key components of effective, CQ-informed conflict resolution include inclusive communication and decision-making, ongoing self-awareness, intentional communication choices, and flexibility in adapting approaches to diverse cultural contexts. The findings also highlight that maintaining order and ensuring the safety and well-being of all involved may require the confident use of authority in certain situations. This study underscores the need to integrate cultural intelligence training into professional development programs to enhance intercultural competence among university staff. Ultimately, the research aims to contribute to the advancement of cross-cultural skills training and empower individuals and organizations to achieve greater success in intercultural communication and conflict resolution.
Keywords: Cultural intelligence, intercultural communication, intercultural competence, conflict resolution, university staff, self-awareness.