Cross-Cultural Issues in Service Development (5cr)

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- identify and deeply understand cross-cultural issues related to service development
- manage multicultural teams and projects
- support and develop frontline personnel's intercultural communication competences
- involve diverse customers in the service design processes

Teaching methods

This is a virtual study unit starting in May and ending by August 31, 2020. There will be scheduled assignments during the summer, with a four weeks break in July. Online team work included.

Time and location

Online, Optima learning environment.

Learning materials and recommended literature

A list of recommended reading will be published in Optima.

Alternative completion methods of implementation

A student may propose an independent approach to compensate the study unit. The assignment(s) need to lead to similar learning objectives as on this study unit and equal 5 ects.

Co-operation with working life and/or RDI

Research-based service development assignment for an external partner.

Important dates

Assignments due on:
May 5, 13, 20, 24, 26
June 4, 11, 25
August 6,10,13, 27

There will be a summer break in July. However, many of the August assignments and the project can be done independently and handed in earlier.

Forms of internationality

Team work with a student group from Upper Austria University of Applied Sciences (during May-June).

Student workload

In average 135 work hours.
75 % individual work
25 % team work

Content and scheduling

Basics of cultural studies
Intercultural communication
Multicultural teams, cultural frameworks
Culture's role in services
Cultural competence in service development
Service research and development task

Further information

This study unit is for Master Degree students only.
Guidance will take place in Optima learning environment.

Evaluation scale

H-5