Management teaching and learning: A cross-cultural perspective

Among the major goals of the educational system in the United States are the development of creativity and originality amongst individuals. On the other hand, in collectivistic nations such as Japan and Thailand, a social system has evolved that avoids conflict and promotes harmony. The Japanese system is rather unique and warrants a more detailed explanation. While Australia falls in between the United States and Japan, surprisingly it is closer to the Asian countries than to its Anglo counterpart. Hence, while American business practices and management education are admired around the world, applying these models without adapting to local cultures is both unrealistic and dysfunctional.