What This Document Is
This document, “A Model for Cross-Cultural Problem Solving” by Tom Stallter, explores the concept of cultural intelligence (CQ) and its application to missions work. It draws parallels between successful problem-solving strategies used in international business and their relevance to effectively sharing faith across cultural boundaries. The document proposes a framework for missionaries to enhance their ability to navigate and resolve challenges encountered when working in different cultural contexts.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is valuable for students and practitioners in intercultural communication, missiology, and related fields. It’s particularly relevant for those preparing for or currently engaged in cross-cultural ministry, international development, or global business. The document addresses a common challenge: the difficulty of applying problem-solving skills effectively when cultural differences are at play. It highlights the importance of not only spiritual preparation but also the development of specific cognitive and social skills needed for successful intercultural engagement.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This document presents a model for cultural intelligence, but it does not offer a simple checklist or guaranteed formula for success. It acknowledges the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in spiritual endeavors and emphasizes that problem-solving techniques alone are insufficient. The document focuses on the *ability* to approach problems, not on providing solutions to specific cultural dilemmas. It also leans heavily on insights from the international business community, requiring readers to consider how those principles translate to a missiological context.
What This Document Provides
The full document provides:
* An overview of the origins of cultural intelligence, linking it to psychology and anthropology.
* A discussion of different understandings of cultural intelligence – innate ability versus learned skills.
* A proposed model for applying cultural intelligence to cross-cultural problem-solving.
* The author’s background and expertise in intercultural studies and mission work.
* References to relevant research and publications in the field.
This preview does *not* include the detailed breakdown of Sternberg’s components of reflective intelligence, the specific steps within the proposed CQ model, or a comprehensive analysis of the challenges in applying these concepts to missions. It also does not include the full list of cited works.