Opportunities For Knowledge Exchange Research Articles

A novel approach to enterprise technical collaboration: Recommending R&D partners through technological similarity and complementarity

Choosing the right partner is a key factor in the success of enterprise R&D cooperation, directly affecting innovation outcomes and market competitiveness. Technical similarity provides a common language and foundational understanding between enterprises, while technical complementarity offers opportunities for knowledge exchange and innovation. However, no previous research has effectively integrated these two features within a collaborator recommendation framework. This study aims to explore a method that combines technological similarity and complementarity for collaborator recommendations. We introduced the Technological Similarity and Complementarity Enhanced Collaborator Recommendation (TSCE-CR) model, which constructs a heterogeneous corporate collaboration network and designs a tailored loss function. This model effectively integrates features of technological similarity and complementarity, enabling the neural network to capture and elucidate the nonlinear and multidimensional relationships in corporate collaborations. Experimental validation on patent data in the field of artificial intelligence demonstrated that our TSCE-CR model excels in identifying potential collaborators, effectively confirming the critical role of technological complementarity in R&D collaboration. This research provides a flexible framework for future studies on collaborator recommendations and offers reliable decision-making support for enterprises in selecting R&D partners.

A systematic review on the role of nature-based solutions (NbS) in housing delivery in Africa

Purpose The study aims to examine the potential benefits of integrating nature-based solutions (NbS) in the housing sector. Design/methodology/approach The approach adopted was a systematic literature review aided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews criteria and the VOSviewer software. Abductive reasoning was used to analyze the collected data, which was then subjected to content analysis through an iterative read-and-review procedure. Findings The study identified green walls, indoor greenery, porous pavement and landscaping, rainwater harvesting and water purification and green roofs as elements of buildings where NbS should be incorporated. Although nature-based research on integrated greenery facades and roof applications was noted, rainwater harvesting and water purification-oriented research remained dominant. These findings demonstrate the advantages of implementing NbS in the housing sector, including energy efficiency, environmental development, flood prevention and sustainable water management. Integrating NbS into housing designs can considerably contribute to the creation of more resilient, eco-friendly and comfortable living environments. However, the adoption of NbS faces hurdles, including a lack of awareness, limited policy support and economic constraints. Practical implications This study recommends that NbS be mainstreamed into housing development and knowledge exchange opportunities between sub-Saharan Africa and Europe, as well as other regions, to promote the adoption of NbS through research and collaborations. Also, it contributes to the discourse of sustainable affordable housing in the Global South while addressing United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 11, 12, 13 and 15. This study offers valuable guidance to stakeholders, thereby fostering the development of more sustainable and resilient housing practices and policies. Originality/value The study used VOSviewer software visualization to identify structural patterns and track prominent research frontiers, allowing for a more thorough yet concise mapping and capture of a scientific knowledge domain.

A Review on Scaling Up Successful Agricultural Extension Techniques for Global Benefit

Agricultural extension services are important for enhancing agricultural productivity, food security, and rural development. Examination of future and research needs highlights the significance of innovative approaches and emerging technologies, such as digital agriculture, precision farming, artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, and biotechnology, in transforming extension services. These technologies offer the potential to optimize resource use, increase yields, and improve supply chain transparency. Comprehensive impact assessments, including randomized controlled trials and mixed-methods approaches, are essential for evaluating the effectiveness of extension programs and understanding their long-term impacts on productivity, food security, and livelihoods. Supportive policy development and advocacy efforts are crucial for creating an enabling environment that promotes innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices. This includes establishing regulatory frameworks, providing financial incentives, and integrating extension services into national development plans. Cross-disciplinary research and international collaboration are key to addressing the complex challenges facing agriculture, fostering the exchange of knowledge and best practices, and enhancing the capacity of national extension systems. Interdisciplinary research teams and systems thinking approaches can provide comprehensive solutions to agricultural challenges, while international research networks and development assistance programs can facilitate the transfer of appropriate technologies and practices. South-South cooperation offers additional opportunities for knowledge exchange and technology transfer between developing countries. By addressing these future directions and research needs, agricultural extension services can effectively contribute to sustainable agricultural development, improved livelihoods for farmers, and greater resilience to climate change. This approach will ensure that extension services remain responsive to the evolving challenges and opportunities in the agricultural sector, ultimately promoting global food security and economic growth.

Entrepreneurial Exposure Effect

The paper investigated whether prior entrepreneurial exposure moderated the effect of entrepreneurial leadership and learning orientation on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) growth. A cross-sectional survey research design was utilized to retrieve data from 471 owners/managers of SMEs in South-West Nigeria. The simple random sampling technique was applied. The results from the pilot study were used to determine the test of reliability and validity of the adapted questionnaire. The partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) analysis findings showed that entrepreneurial leadership and learning orientation effect on SME growth is not significantly moderated by prior entrepreneurial exposure in South-West, Nigeria [(βiz= 0.002, t = 22.771, p>0.05)], although it has a positive effect. SME owners and managers should leverage their entrepreneurial insights and experiences to inform strategic initiatives, foster innovation, and drive growth. Additionally, creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and collaboration among individuals with diverse entrepreneurial backgrounds could enrich the organizational learning process and fuel innovation. Nevertheless, there are no guarantees that prior entrepreneurial exposure would affect firm growth.

How does high-speed railway affect green technology innovation? A perspective of high-quality human capital

Green development is the main theme of modern development in China and even the world. Green development depends on green technology innovation (GTI). Therefore, for developing countries like China in the stage of economic transition, it is urgent to accelerate GTI to gain sustained advantages in the new round of international competition. As an important representative of contemporary rapid transportation, high-speed railway (HSR) can not only alleviate the rapidly growing transportation demand of the public, but also have potential benefits to the energy consumption structure and environmental quality. Whether and how HSR affects GTI has become the focus of this paper. Hence, by employing the panel data of 286 cities in China from 2007 to 2018 with the time-varying DID model, this paper verifies that HSR development can contribute to GTI. The main findings of this paper are as follows: (1) The operation of HSR can not only make the incremental development of GTI, but also improve the quality of GTI simultaneously. Moreover, the quality improvement effect of HSR is greater than the quantity increment effect. (2) Heterogeneity analysis shows that the positive effect of HSR on GTI is more significant for cities that have implemented LCCP. (3) This paper verifies the mediating effect of high-quality human capital. The opening of HSR further stimulates GTI by improving the level of high-quality human capital in cities and increasing the opportunities for knowledge exchange and diffusion. Based on the above findings, this paper proposes some policy recommendations to help developing countries achieve GTI with positive externalities.

Secondary School Teachers' Attitudes Toward Information Technology

Every aspect of human existence has been touched by information technology, and it has the ability to contribute to education and training—especially distance learning—to make it a cutting-edge learning environment. The need for new technology in the teaching and learning process is growing. With sound and unmatched feasibility for information exchange, communication, and discovery to support teaching and learning, the information age evolves into an era of knowledge. Information technologies support opportunities for knowledge exchange on a global scale. These can help by giving teachers and students access to the most recent knowledge and information. According to Haag (1998), information technologies are a "set of tools that can help provide the accurate and appropriate information that is necessary for effective teaching and learning"

Insights into Internet of Medical Things (IoMT): Data fusion, security issues and potential solutions

The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) has created a wide range of opportunities for knowledge exchange in numerous industries. The opportunities include patient empowerment, healthcare collaboration, medical education and training, remote monitoring and telemedicine, customized treatment plans, data sharing for innovation, continuous medical learning, supply chain management, public health initiatives, wearable health devices, and quality improvement initiatives. However, the adoption of IoMT faces numerous challenges regarding interoperability, data privacy, security, regulatory, and infrastructure costs. This paper aims to address the implications of data fusion in IoMT, as well as the associated security challenges and their potential solutions, which are lacking in the literature. Data collected from IoMT devices has a direct impact on the accuracy of predictions because of its quality, quantity, and relevance. With an accuracy of 99.53 % to 99.99 %, the Epilepsy seizure detector-based Naive Bayes (ESDNB) algorithm is found to be the most effective for detecting epileptic seizures in IoMT networks. However, the way data are stored must also undergo a major revolution, and all phases—collection, protection, and storage—need to be improved. The standardization of architecture and security measures may improve the detection of security threats and compromises. Methods to detect malware in cross platforms is also an avenue for future research that can effectively tackle the heterogeneity of the IoMT systems. Cryptography and blockchain technology have shown to be promising ways to increase the security of an IoMT-based system. The findings of this review will assist a wide variety of stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem.

Consolidating Medical Education in Sudan During War

Background: Providing quality medical education in Sudan faces challenges due to armed conflicts. This short communication explores practical solutions for ensuring the continuity of medical education during the conflict in the Sudanese context. Methods: A comprehensive literature review covered relevant articles published from 1915 to 2023. Four major databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) were searched using keywords related to medical education, war, armed conflict, and affected countries. Data synthesis identified common themes, challenges, and trends and suggested solutions for medical education in conflict zones. Case studies from Ukraine, Liberia, and Iraq were included for a comprehensive understanding. Results: Collaborative alliances among medical schools facilitate resource sharing and support. Engaging the Sudanese diaspora through virtual collaborations, mentorship programs, and faculty exchanges enhance educational experiences. Stable regions as educational hubs ensure uninterrupted academic progress for students from conflict-affected areas. Online and remote education, including asynchronous learning and social media platforms, overcome access barriers and fosters knowledge sharing. Ambulatory teaching provides practical experience and adaptability. Prioritizing faculty well-being and professional development through training and support is crucial. Emphasizing resilience and adaptability in student education prepare them for healthcare delivery in resource-limited settings. Research and innovation contribute to evidence-based strategies. International collaboration and support offer opportunities for knowledge exchange and infrastructure improvement. Conclusion: Implementing collaborative strategies and innovative approaches helps Sudanese medical schools overcome challenges during armed conflicts and maintain quality medical education. These solutions empower students and faculty, enhance resilience, and contribute to improving healthcare systems in post-war Sudan.

Communities of practice for contemporary leadership development and knowledge exchange through work-based learning

ABSTRACT This study explores the experiences of leaders who have led organisations and teams through an extended period of crisis management whilst completing a UK work-based master’s programme. This paper examines contemporary approaches to work-based learning and explores the effect of organisational and workforce demands in a volatile era of global economic uncertainty. Theoretical and conceptual foundations relating to experiential learning, digital education and communities of learning are analysed and discussed. Taking an inductive qualitative approach, the study analyses semi-structured questionnaire data from senior leaders. The widespread adoption of technology exposes challenges to facilitation and the academic-employer interface, impacting upon learning communities and knowledge exchange opportunities. The findings also suggest enhanced leaders’ adaptive traits, including confidence and self-reliance. This study illuminates critical issues associated with contemporary work-based learning, specifically relating to prolonged macro uncertainty and the effect upon workplaces as sites of knowledge and learning, and risks to dynamic relationships between the psychosocial work environment, genuine opportunities to learn and learner well-being. This work seeks to inform the design of future programs, specifically in terms developing inter and intra-organisational communities of learning and knowledge exchange to enhance best practice and inculcate crucial leadership skills.

Cancer Research in Pakistan: Progress, Challenges, and Future Directions

Cancer is a growing public health concern in Pakistan, with rising incidence rates and significant impacts on individuals and communities. In recent years, cancer research in Pakistan has made notable strides in understanding the epidemiology, risk factors, and treatment outcomes of various cancer types. However, numerous challenges persist, hindering progress in cancer control and prevention. Exploring the progress made, acknowledging the challenges faced, and outlining future directions is crucial for advancing cancer research and improving cancer care in Pakistan.
 In terms of progress, cancer research in Pakistan has provided valuable insights into the burden of different cancer types across various regions. Studies have shed light on the prevalence of common cancers such as breast, lung, and gastrointestinal cancers, enabling targeted interventions and screening programs. Furthermore, collaborative efforts between research institutions and healthcare providers have resulted in improved diagnosis and treatment modalities, with advancements in radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgical techniques.
 Despite these advancements, several challenges persist. Limited access to quality cancer care, particularly in rural areas, remains a significant barrier. Insufficient infrastructure, shortage of skilled healthcare professionals, and financial constraints impede timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Additionally, cultural beliefs and social stigmas surrounding cancer often lead to delayed diagnosis and inadequate support for patients and their families. Overcoming these challenges requires comprehensive strategies, including strengthening healthcare infrastructure, training healthcare professionals, and raising awareness about cancer prevention and early detection.
 Looking ahead, the future of cancer research in Pakistan lies in a multidimensional approach. Enhancing collaboration among researchers, healthcare providers, and policymakers is crucial for effective data collection, research translation, and evidence-based policymaking. Investment in research infrastructure, including molecular and genetic profiling facilities, can facilitate targeted therapies and personalized treatment options. Additionally, fostering international collaborations and partnerships can provide opportunities for knowledge exchange, access to innovative technologies, and clinical trials.
 Cancer research in Pakistan has made significant progress in understanding the burden of cancer and improving treatment outcomes. However, challenges such as limited access to quality care and cultural barriers must be addressed to ensure equitable and comprehensive cancer services across the country. By investing in research infrastructure, fostering collaborations, and promoting awareness, Pakistan can enhance cancer research capabilities and make substantial strides in cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. A concerted effort by researchers, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and communities is necessary to combat the growing burden of cancer and improve the lives of individuals affected by the disease.

Review article: Potential of nature-based solutions to mitigate hydro-meteorological risks in sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract. Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is the region most vulnerable to climate change and related hydro-meteorological risks. These risks are exacerbated in rapidly expanding urban areas due to the loss and degradation of green and blue spaces with their regulating ecosystem services. The potential of nature-based solutions (NBSs) to mitigate hydro-meteorological risks such as floods is increasingly recognised in Europe. However, its application in urban areas of SSA still needs to be systematically explored to inform and promote its uptake in this region. We conducted a multidisciplinary systematic review following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) protocol to establish the general patterns in the literature on NBSs and hydro-meteorological risk mitigation in SSA. We searched scientific journal databases, websites of 12 key institutions and 11 NBS databases and identified 45 papers for analysis. We found at least 1 reported NBS in 71 % of urban areas of SSA across 83 locations. Of the papers, 62 % were clustered in South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria only, while the most studied cities were Dar es Salaam and Kampala. Moreover, 66 NBS practices were identified, most of which (n=44) were for flood mitigation. With only Mozambique (n=2) among the most at-risk countries reporting NBSs, we found that NBSs are implemented where risks occur but not where they are most severe. Mangrove restoration (n=10) and wetland restoration (n=7), reforestation (n=10) and urban forests (n=8), and agroforestry (n=3) and conservation agriculture (n=2) were the most common NBS practices identified for floods, extreme-heat and drought mitigation, respectively. Traditional practices that fit the definition of NBSs, such as grass strips and stone bunds, and practices that are more popular in the Global North, such as green roofs and green façades, were also identified. These NBSs also provided ecosystem services, including 15 regulatory, 5 provisioning and 4 cultural ecosystem services, while 4 out of every 5 NBSs created livelihood opportunities. We conclude that the reported uptake of NBSs for hydro-meteorological risks in SSA is low. However, there could be more NBSs, especially at the local level, that are unreported. NBSs can help SSA address major development challenges such as water and food insecurity and unemployment and help the sub-region progress towards climate-resilient development. Therefore, we recommend that NBSs be mainstreamed into urban planning and knowledge exchange opportunities between SSA and Europe and that other regions be explored to promote uptake.

Agrifood systems knowledge exchange through Australia‐Pacific circular migration schemes

AbstractPacific Island workers contribute significantly to Australiaʼs agriculture and food security through the Seasonal Worker Programme (SWP). Previous studies show the economic benefits of the SWP to both Australian agro‐industries and Pacific workers. However, there are limited studies about the agricultural knowledge exchange that occurs via the circular migration enabled by the SWP, and the experiences of workers and employers as agricultural knowledge holders. With the SWP merged into the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility Scheme, there is an opportunity to help define how circular migration is both an economic and agricultural development policy. In this paper, we present findings from interviews with 63 workers (from Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu) about agricultural knowledge and skills acquired and exchanged via SWP participation. We provide a discussion of opportunities for knowledge exchange in international labour mobility, and areas of future research in circular migration.

The Paradox of Knowledge Networks: Why More Knowledge Does Not Always Make You More Successful

The purpose of this research was to further the understanding of knowledge exchange within organisations by examining how the dyadic relationships between individuals, in terms of the channels of communication used (structural capital), knowledge awareness (cognitive capital), and the quality of their relationships (relational capital), influence opportunities for knowledge exchange (access to advice), and ultimately individual performance. data were analysed using social network analysis to determine individual network centralities, and structural equation modelling was used to test the hypotheses at the individual level. The findings suggest (1) face-to-face channels with trusted sources are the most preferred method for exchanging sensitive knowledge, (2) knowing where expertise resides and source availability is key to research knowledge exchange, and (3) centrality in knowledge network does not result in uniform increases in individual performance. While technology has the potential to increase the efficiency of knowledge exchange by removing the barriers to same-time, same-place interactions, computer-mediated communication may actually inhibit the exchange of tacit knowledge and advice because of the lean medium of the exchange, negatively impacting performance. Using a network perspective, this study adds to the literature on intra-organisational learning networks by examining how an individual’s use of different communication channels to share knowledge is related to centrality in knowledge networks, and how this impacts individual performance.

DOI SYSTEM: A SMART ONLINE PLATFORM FOR SUPPORTING OMAN'S RESEARCH TALENT IN SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY LEVEL

Research is important in creating a culture in the present, and knowledge is new. Research allows scholars to develop the state of knowledge in the broader public. Research is important because it provides a glimpse into the future, the direction in which disciplines of knowledge are heading, and how well they will develop. Research is important because it allows humanity to better understand and see the universe. Most university students usually work on different projects for their academic requirements. However, rare students might have the ability to publicly share his/her work. Our proposed platform will give the students ability to share full or partial of his/her project content. We believe our platform will provide a great opportunity for students to see each other work. We think it is relevant to have a national database for our student work (school and university) level. This definitely will increase user performance and give a great opportunity for knowledge exchange and sharing experiences. At this project, we proposed to create a DOI website that provides sufficient and reliable support for school and university students.              

Finding the missing and unknown: Novel educational approaches to warming up cold cases

In recent years, students in police academies and higher education institutions around the world have worked together to analyse cold cases including long-term missing persons cases in collaboration with investigators and prosecutors. In 2020, three European organisations, the Police Expert Network on Missing Persons (PEN-MP), AMBER Alert Europe and Locate International, succeeded in connecting these educational organisations enabling them to work collectively on cases and conduct cold case analyses (CCA) across international borders. The International Cold Case Analysis Project (ICCAP) learning objectives were to 1) collect the necessary information about the victim, 2) reconstruct the crime, and 3) investigate trace control.In a learning objective-based evaluation using Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing, 76 participating students from the German and International ICCAP teams were asked to complete a pre- and post-review questionnaire to self-assess their personal competence development. Participants reported significant increases in competence in all evaluated areas, thus demonstrating that authentic and relevant collaborations can enrich the learning environment, promote the use of professional skills, and provide significant knowledge exchange opportunities between academia and industry.Drawing on case studies of cold case missing persons' investigations and unidentified found remains, this article shares how university academics, students and community volunteers can work together nationally and internationally to find out what has happened to missing people and how we can more effectively identify the previously unidentified. In so doing, we share the expertise required to progress these cold cases and provide recommendations to support other institutions and organisations in adopting this innovative approach.

Comparing Colorectal Cancer Screening Outcomes in the International Cancer Screening Network: A Consortium Proposal

Randomized trials have shown that stool testing for occult blood and flexible sigmoidoscopy reduce colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality, and based on observational evidence of its effectiveness, colonoscopy is also frequently used as a screening modality.1 Opportunistic and organized CRC screenings are now available in many countries, presenting opportunities for knowledge exchange and data sharing that could improve the delivery of screening and further reduce CRC morbidity and mortality worldwide.

Exploring motivation to engage in intraorganizational knowledge sharing: a mixed-methods approach

PurposeIntraorganizational knowledge and information sharing are important steps toward more-accessible organizational knowledge. The aim of this study is to qualitatively explore factors that contribute to employees' motivations for sustaining intraorganizational knowledge-sharing behaviors and to examine the impact of these factors in a quantitative study with the Austrian Federal Ministry of Defense. This ministry faces a retirement wave in the next 5–10 years. Intraorganizational knowledge sharing before, during, and following this wave will play a decisive role for the organization in the near future.Design/methodology/approachAn exploratory sequential mixed-methods study was conducted. The study design involved a qualitative study phase with expert interviews and stakeholder workshops (n = 9) and a quantitative study phase based on a cross-sectional online survey with an implicit association test on intraorganizational knowledge sharing (n = 59).FindingsIn the qualitative study phase, three main research topics regarding intraorganizational knowledge sharing were identified: employee attitude, organizational support, and specific relational aspects of knowledge transfer, such as reciprocal relationships among employees and opportunities for knowledge exchange. A hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed that perceived organizational support was the only factor that was a significant predictor of motivation for engaging in knowledge sharing. We also analyzed the data for moderation effects and demonstrated that sociopsychological factors (e.g., the engagement or openness of colleagues to share their knowledge) further strengthened the positive relationship between employees' perceived support and personal willingness to share knowledge.Practical implicationsWe conclude that an organizational culture that supports knowledge sharing within the organization is highly relevant for motivating employees to share their knowledge. Practitioners will also benefit from the insights of the various dimensions of employees' willingness to engage in knowledge-sharing behaviors to better design further interventions in organizations.Originality/valueIn accordance with an exploratory sequential mixed-methods approach, we followed a transdisciplinary process in which scientific and practical experiences and knowledge were integrated. For this purpose, interviews and workshops with experts and stakeholders in the organization were conducted. The qualitative findings were incorporated into a quantitative survey and an implicit association test for the employees of the organization. This approach demonstrates a different and more holistic approach to analyzing a real-world problem in the context of a governmental agency in order to investigate the multidimensional and complex topic of intraorganizational knowledge sharing.

INTERNATIONAL SYSTEM OF KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE FOR YOUNG SCIENTISTS

The paper proposes a system which is electronic data storage (of qualification works of students from different countries) and provides the capability to identify and connect young scientists conducting research on a related problem area. The purpose of developing this system is to provide opportunities for knowledge exchange, research in a team on a common problem, as well as to identify scientific trends in different countries. In this paper, the preprocessing methods influence on the work of classifiers such as Logistic Regression, LSTM, BERT, LightGBM was researched. A study was conducted on the speed of classification and F1 assessment. Conclusions. Lemmatization showed to require a shorter operating time compared to steaming by almost twice and a better score by an average of 5 percent, so it was decided to use the Logistic Regression classifier with lemmatization at the stage of text preparation in the subsequent operation of the proposed ISKE.

Activating Data through Eco-Didactic Design in the Public Realm: Enabling Sustainable Development in Cities

This paper explores how design in the public realm can integrate city data to help disseminate the information embedded within it and provide urban opportunities for knowledge exchange. The hypothesis is that such art and design practices in public spaces, as places of knowledge exchange, may enable more sustainable communities and cities through the visualization of data. To achieve this, we developed a methodology to compare various design approaches for integrating three main elements in public-space design projects: city data, specific issues of sustainability, and varying methods for activating the data. To test this methodology, we applied it to a pedogeological project where students were required to render city data visible. We analyze the proposals presented by the young designers to understand their approaches to design, data, and education. We study how they “educate” and “dialogue” with the community about sustainable issues. Specifically, the research attempts to answer the following questions: (1) How can we use data in the design of public spaces as a means for sustainability knowledge exchange in the city? (2) How can community-based design contribute to innovative data collection and dissemination for advancing sustainability in the city? (3) What are the overlaps between the projects’ intended impacts and the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? Our findings suggest that there is a need for such creative practices, as they make information available to the community, using unconventional methods. Furthermore, more research is needed to better understand the short- and long-term outcomes of these works in the public realm.

Engagement beyond a tour guide approach: Korean and US elementary school students' intercultural telecollaboration

This paper reports findings from a case study of intercultural telecollaboration between elementary school students in South Korea and the United States via the social networking service Classting. The goal was to provide an opportunity for Korean students with limited exposure to authentic English language communication to interact with native speakers of English and for the US students to experience online intercultural activity in class with the hope of promoting intercultural communicative competence (ICC) in both student groups. The study applies Byram’s (1997) model of ICC to analyze patterns of engagement within the communication between students. Findings indicate that although both student groups endeavored to create common ground in their intercultural encounters, there was a tendency to relate to each other by enacting a Tour Guide Approach towards their own culture and a Tourist Approach (Byram, 1997) towards the other culture. Findings also show, however, that students went beyond such approaches during “off task” interactional moments, drawing on shared small cultures to initiate more authentic interpersonal engagement and opportunities for knowledge exchange.