Changing mental models and developing global mind-sets of business students through international study modules

Abstract

The fast-changing interdependent global context and the accompanying need to teach capabilities required in the global marketplace led to the implementation of international global modules for business management students. The study explored students’ perceptions about their learning experiences on international modules to BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China) countries abroad. The findings suggest that a module abroad encouraged a broader vision outside of their own mental representations and contributed to the development of students’ mental models and global mind-sets. The module exposed them to foreign ways of thinking and behaving in diverse contexts and in so-doing disturbed current thinking. The global educational experience enhanced experiential learning, stimulated reflection, and contributed to the development and transfer of deep knowledge. This article provides insight into the experienced value of international global modules, and it proposes a reflection framework on improving the learning outcomes of such modules abroad.