Stimulating Critical Thinking in U.S Business Students through the Inclusion of International Students

Abstract

Students enroll in college with different expectations, aptitudes, and cultural backgrounds. Research supports the need for faculty to create an atmosphere where students feel comfortable discussing cultural sensitive issues. As the business world is becoming more global, critical thinking and the ability to form and articulate thoughts proficiently have become essential competencies for effective communication in all avenues of life. Discussion and Multicultural Education as methods of teaching have the potential in aiding the development of critical thinking skills of students. Moreover, students’ intellectual progress by means of the discussions enhances from critically evaluating views from global perspectives. This paper provides an argument as to the importance of faculty being knowledgeable of the cultural and sociopolitical history of international students to better foster a classroom climate of respect to ensure that the discussion perspectives from all students are inclusive and valued