How to Approach International Students from Multi-active Cultures?

We continue our exploratory journey into the culture typology by famous linguist and cross-cultural management theorist, Richard D. Lewis. You already know the main characteristics of multi-active cultures with three representative countries – Bolivia, Chile and Morocco. Now, let’s discuss how you can implement this knowledge in your daily work with international students.

So, how to address the needs of international students coming from multi-active countries? Keep reading to find out!

Focus on building personal relationships

People coming from multi-active cultures will respond very positively towards the idea of having a mentor, developing a close relationship with a lecturer or being able to get genuine help from the local student union. Good relationships within the university and on campus provide a secure environment for such students. They like to see structures and patterns they can recognize from life in their home country.

Introduce flexibility into the curriculum

You can sort out a lot of misunderstandings on campus by simply introducing more flexible options that could work both for students that have a more linear-active mindset and for those coming from multi-active communities. Gamification, for example, could be the perfect tool here. It will not just help you diversify your student mix but also the approaches you use when designing curriculum for international students.

Set up space for cultural and social activities

People from multi-active cultures with focus on community. They will gladly embrace all kinds of opportunities to celebrate their culture. Use these occasions not only to foster inclusive multi-cultural environment on campus but also to help international students open up to each other.

Encourage group projects

While multitasking comes natural to most people from multi-linear cultures, group work with students of linear-active background will help both types share their best traits and learn from each other. Finding the balance between building a plan and adapting to it and following schedules while leaving room for flexibility can be difficult at first. But it will ultimately result in a rewarding relationship among members of different cultures. More importantly, it will develop awareness and appreciation of different cultures and the approaches towards working together they all bring.

So, what is your experience with international students from multi-active cultures? Do you use any particular approaches or have any useful tips to share? Let us know in the comments!