Virtual bridges: Enhancing intercultural communication courses through narrative-based virtual reality

Abstract

ABSTRACT In our globalized interconnected world, intercultural and interpersonal communication competencies are essential. Virtual reality (VR) narrative-based scenarios offer a unique opportunity to foster these competencies by simulating quality contact with people of different races, religions, and other identities. This activity had students meet and take the perspective of fictional dorm roommates from different cultural backgrounds. Using VR headsets, students experienced the conflict scenario in a combination of first-person and third-person perspectives. Students responded positively to this immersive activity and reflected on how the story allowed them to see the same situation from different approaches. Instructors may adapt the script from the activity to incorporate narrative-based learning experiences in their own intercultural or interpersonal communication courses. Courses Introduction to Intercultural Communication, Introduction to Interpersonal Communication. Objectives Students will compare and contrast different perspectives of characters in an intercultural conflict scenario; apply the concept of facework to different cultural approaches to conflict management; evaluate the effectiveness of mediation in an intercultural conflict scenario; and relate an intercultural scenario to personal experiences.