Intercultural Conflict Resolution Micro-Credential

The Intercultural Conflict Resolution Micro-Credential explores competency-based learning to develop soft skills while offering a micro-credential, a shareable endorsement, in resolving intercultural conflict. We are still currently accepting applications for this pilot. Reach out to Anne Marie Espiritu (aespiritu@bowvalleycollege.ca) to find out more.

This two-year project develops and offers a micro-credential which will be piloted in Fall 2021. The micro-credential will focus on enhancing industry knowledge, language, and intercultural conflict resolution skills within the hospitality industry. Cohort recruitment seeks to engage newcomer professionals who work in the hospitality industry and those who are looking to improve their skills; whether aspiring to be or currently working in a supervisory position. In addition to providing an opportunity for newcomer workers, the project aims to inform how micro-credentials can validate elements of global competence in Alberta.

Throughout, Intercultural Conflict Resolution will consider participants’ intersecting identity factors as the coursework is rooted in reflection and the examination of understanding one’s own identity and how it may influence interactions in culturally diverse workplaces. The program will be designed to be flexible and learner driven, providing opportunities for learners to practice and assess their skills to ensure that they are set up successfully for real world problem solving in the industry.

An employer advisory committee will help identify the core competencies and will support creating rubrics for assessments, reflections, and evaluations. They will also inform what determines successful competencies in the workplace. The advisory committee will reflect voices from across Alberta and will include employers from hotels specifically from the Banff and Canmore regions.

For newcomer workers, the micro-credential supports workplace integration by helping cohort participants validate intercultural conflict skills they bring to the workplace and to upskill in areas where they may have gaps.

For employers, the project will help to determine if a course-based, micro-credential approach is scalable and effective in helping individuals in the hospitality industry mitigate and manage conflict in the workplace. Intercultural Conflict Resolution also aims to provide employers a lens to inform not only how they train employees, including newcomers, but also how they hire.