Abstract

Computer-mediated classrooms coupled with heightened emphasis on removing geographic limitations have led to growing dependence on asynchronous learning networks as a delivery medium. An increasingly robust body of literature suggests both positive and negative implications of knowledge delivery using this medium. However, much less is known about the implications of this delivery method relative to the cultural differences which exist in a geographically limitless environment. Exploratory research from a graduate level course was used to ascertain some of the basic cross cultural issues which may be relevant in this environment. Using cultural context as a separator, twenty four participants evenly split between low context participants and high context participants were polled regarding their experience in the course. The poll addressed a number of key issues finding increasing frequency in the asynchronous learning network literature. Results confirm some of the published benefits as touted in the literature, but identify an additional set of issues for further research and evaluation.

Highlights

  • Over the past decade, the global environment has changed significantly, reducing the importance of both geographical boundaries and temporal limitations on activities in the global village

  • Computer-mediated classrooms coupled with heightened emphasis on removing geographic and temporal limitations have led to growing dependence on asynchronous learning networks as an education and training delivery medium

  • Despite the limitations identified above, this case study indicates that the advantages of asynchronous learning networks carry over from one culture to another, through a range of cultural discriminators

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Summary

INTRODUCTION

The global environment has changed significantly, reducing the importance of both geographical boundaries and temporal limitations on activities in the global village. Computer-mediated classrooms coupled with heightened emphasis on removing geographic and temporal limitations have led to growing dependence on asynchronous learning networks as an education and training delivery medium. Much less is known about the implications of this delivery method relative to the cultural differences which exist in the global village. Perhaps due to their single culture nature, most if not all of. Some conclusions are drawn relative to the benefits and drawbacks of asynchronous learning network delivery, followed by suggestions for further research into this as yet poorly investigated area of discovery

LITERATURE BACKGROUND
Computer-mediated communication
Cultural differences
EXPLORATORY CASE STUDY
The context
Data Collection
Data Analysis
Limitations
CONCLUSIONS
VIII. APPENDIX
Findings
Objective
Full Text
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