The Effect of Cross-Cultural Differences on Team Performance Within an Educational Setting: A mixed methods study

The Effect of Cross-Cultural Differences on Team Performance Within an Educational Setting: A mixed methods study

Abstract:

Faculty members’ performance, experience, satisfaction while on a team, and their professional development were investigated to determine the benefits and challenges of cross cultural differences. The sample consisted of full- and part-time faculty members at James Madison University (JMU), located in Harrisonburg, Virginia. The purposes of this mixed methods study (online survey and one-to-one interview) were to determine and measure the effect of cross-cultural differences on team performance, highlight advantages and disadvantages of those cross-cultural differences within the team; and, apply the knowledge learned from this study to enhance team performance within an educational setting. The online survey assessed faculty performance while on a team. The results provided statistical evidence regarding the effect of multicultural team performance within an academic organization. The interview, the second step, provided more detailed information about the university`s international faculty members` experiences on a multicultural team. By referencing these findings, educational institutions may improve organizational culture and provide a vision for increasing multicultural team performance. By highlighting the benefits and challenges of cross-cultural differences, educational administrators will gain greater knowledge in understanding and promoting more productive team performance. The study concludes by suggesting appropriate directions for future research.

Keywords: cross-cultural; workplace diversity; educational setting; educational setting culture; team diversity; multicultural team performance; teams.