Cultural competence in web-based instruction: a conceptual framework

Abstract

Web-based instruction has become a preferred method of instruction for increasingly diverse communities of learners. To address the instructional needs of these learners greater consideration must be given to cultural differences in course design including architecture and instructional course structure. This paper argues that a cultural competence model of instruction is needed to guide web-based instruction and to develop the potential of online communities of learners. A cultural competence framework is described to meet this need. It incorporates cultural considerations within three domains: cognitive, interpersonal and environmental. The framework provides a guide for designing and using web-based instruction.