The impact of globalization and multinational corporations on schools and universities in Costa Rica

2014-04-23Theoretical frameworks for globalization, 21st‐century skills, and leadership were used as part of the study. The purpose of the study was to understand the impact of globalization and multinational corporations (MNCs) on educational leadership and development of 21st‐century skills in schools and universities in Costa Rica. The research questions asked (a) what results of globalization and the presence of MNCs are seen in Costa Rica, as well as in schools and universities in Costa Rica; and (b) how educational leadership has been impacted directly by policy decisions that came as a result of the influence of globalization and MNCs. Participants were a purposeful sample of 11 government, industry, and school officials from Instituto Technológico de Costa Rica (ITCR) who agreed to interviews and 22 anonymous ITCR faculty from the computer engineering department who responded to an electronic survey. The study was conducted in Costa Rica, including a review of artifacts, interviews, observations, and a survey for data collection. Data analysis was conducted on a collective but individual basis. Survey questions were pre‐coded and aligned to the study’s conceptual frameworks and the research questions. Each team member collected survey data individually. Findings indicated that educational leaders maintain a world culture perspective and that globalization and MNCs have had a major impact on the educational system and its leaders in Costa Rica. Three implications emerged: (a) The workforce requires educated employees skilled in the use of technology and collaboration, (b) accreditation can improve the quality of education, and (c) industry partnerships can improve resources and programs at educational institutions. Costa Rica has made considerable strides in meeting the needs of MNCs but in the country, a shortage of skilled workers, especially engineers, remains