We Will Figure This Out Together: New Approaches to Conflicts Rooted in Intercultural Differences at an Ontario College
Year: 2026
Type: dissertation
Abstract: This Dissertation-in-Practice (DiP) examines how minor conflicts rooted in intercultural differences escalate into significant disruptions at Imperial College (a pseudonym), a southern Ontario college experiencing rapid growth in international students. Guided by a social constructivist lens and informed by a social justice-oriented approach, the DiP analyzes how rapid institutional growth, unclear goals, siloed structures, and reactive responses have created conditions in which routine misunderstandings between students, faculty, and staff become major incidents. The analysis identifies a cross-functional team of campus representatives as the most promising solution to this recurring problem. The team would create opportunities to learn across silos, address the broader conditions that give rise to conflict, and develop more coordinated, proactive, and context-specific responses. The proposed change initiative is grounded in servant leadership and implemented through a three-step stage change model, supported by a communications strategy and a monitoring and evaluation plan. Together, these elements are designed to help the campus community move from reactive conflict management to collaborative, systemic problem-solving. This plan proposes that a cross-functional, learning-oriented approach can reduce escalated intercultural conflicts while strengthening Imperial College’s capacity to support students, faculty, staff, and administrators in an increasingly complex campus environment.
Author: Taylor, Dwayne
Language: English
Subfield: Communication
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7208688783