Assessing Cultural Intelligence and Study Abroad Experiences of Dietetics Students and Professionals.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationship between study abroad participation and levels of cultural intelligence (CQ) of dietetics students and professionals. METHODS: Participants were recruited via e-mail to complete an online survey, which included the Cultural Intelligence Scale and an additional 21 items developed and partially validated by the researchers. A mixed-method analysis was used to examine relationships between CQ levels, study abroad program participation, and international travel experiences. RESULTS: Participation in study abroad programs and international travel experiences were related to higher levels of CQ in metacognitive (P = 0.003; P < 0.001), cognitive (P = 0.001; P = 0.001), motivational (P < 0.001; P < 0.001), and behavioral (P = 0.02; P < 0.001) dimensions. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Results suggest that participation in study abroad programs and international travel experiences may result in high CQ levels and may equip students and practicing dietitians with skills, knowledge, and resources for practicing in culturally diverse communities. Future experimental research implementing study abroad programs and international travel opportunities for this population may help determine how these experiences impact dietetics practice in the long term.