Why cultural intelligence matters more than ever in our schools

In my previous articles, I highlighted the diversity of the UAE, a country with over 200 different nationalities. If one walks into one of our classrooms, they will hear a symphony of languages and accents. In addition, our students and teachers alike bring a wealth of cultural heritage that needs to be cherished and celebrated. For all these reasons, school leaders need to move beyond being aware of diversity to being culturally intelligent. In this article, I uncover what Cultural Intelligence (CQ) is and highlight its paramount importance in our schools.

Defining Cultural Intelligence (CQ)

Cultural Intelligence refers to how we act and respond to different situations based on our cultural understanding and awareness. The idea was first developed by Soon Ang and Christopher Earley who described CQ as the ability to navigate and respond to situations across cultural contexts including national, ethnic, and generational ones. In education, Cultural Intelligence is the foundation for inclusive and equitable school culture, communication, staff development, and parental engagement. It is no longer a soft skill. It is a strategic one.

Defining a culturally intelligent leader

Culturally Intelligent leaders understand that the world is their classroom. They are open to educating themselves about other cultures through deliberate and intentional learning and dialogue. When faced with a challenge, they avoid judgment. Instead, they investigate and ask questions to help them understand unfamiliar behaviors and perspectives. Furthermore, they stay away from assumptions realizing that meaning is culturally constructed and situated. Culturally Intelligent leaders also prioritize open communication. They are willing to reach out, simplify their message, and ensure clarity across cultural and linguistic differences.

This approach reflects positively not only on the school leader but on the culture of the institution. When teachers, students, and families feel seen, respected and understood, engagement grows. And with engagement comes higher outcomes and innovation.

How to develop Cultural Intelligence

Developing Cultural Intelligence is a very intentional process, as mentioned earlier. It stems from a sincere desire to embody the principles of inclusive practice. It starts with self-awareness or understanding of one’s cultural background and biases. It is then followed by educating oneself on local norms, cultural values, and traditions, motivated by genuine curiosity to learn and grow. The last step is behavioral flexibility or one’s ability to adapt actions based on newly formed understanding of cultural differences and nuances. Research has shown time and time again that adults learn through dialogue and reflection. It is important for school leaders to engage in professional learning communities and develop cross-cultural mentorships to broaden their understanding, tackle misconceptions and reflect on their ideas and perspectives.

Tips for school leaders

1. Listen beyond words. School leaders need to practice listening attentively while paying special attention to tone and context. Often, what is not said is just as important as what is said.

2. Surround yourself with diverse voices. School leaders need to build advisory groups that welcome diverse voices including teachers, parents and students from different backgrounds.

3. Hire strategically. Leaders also need to be intentional in challenging traditional hiring techniques in which dominant cultures and languages are preferred. Instead, they should hire qualified, diverse schoolteachers and administrators who can contribute to building an inclusive school culture.

4. Engage in regular reflection. It is helpful to document our biases and track our journey as aspiring culturally intelligent leaders. Using a cultural journal can help leaders reflect after major decisions or meetings. They can also help leaders reflect on the role of assumptions in decision-making.

5. Practice curiosity. Leaders need to ask questions about culture and context that help them make informed decisions. Instead of acting in ways that they are familiar with, they should step out of their comfort zone to ask about ways the school can best align with the values, beliefs and traditions of its students and the larger community.

To sum up, Cultural Intelligence (CQ) is no longer an optional skill. Global trends in teaching and learning indicate that leaders who make the biggest impact are those who are willing to go the extra mile to represent the communities they serve. Schools in the UAE are especially in need of leadership that represents our diverse communities and aligns with our national agenda of being a leading nation in tolerance and inclusion.