Should mixed-mode (virtual and physical meetings) be implemented for engagement related events in order to improve and complete the learning experience as well as accommodate those who may be incapable to travel?
Supervisior: Tom Karrel
Fellows: Alekhya Reddy, Rollins College, Emmanuel Howard, University Of Colorado Boulder, Godwin Albert Acquah, Bridge Africa, Hawa Barry, Cornell University, Lauryn Vania Kurniawan, Hong Kong Baptist University, Matthew Willis, Rollins College, Sarah Annabel
Background
As the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a wave of office and school closures around the world, many organizations have had to adapt their activities to a virtual modality. The sheer volume of individuals suddenly thrust into virtual work or education programs has doubtlessly raised questions regarding the conduciveness of such programs to achieving key outcomes. However, it is important to observe that there is a substantial body of research on the effectiveness of virtual exchange programs, particularly within the context of higher education, which predates the pandemic. There have also been studies and evaluations done by foundations and programs such as the Erasmus+ Virtual Exchange. The Erasmus+ Virtual Exchange is a program designed to enhance academic and intercultural cooperation amongst the European Union and select neighboring states.
According to the Merrian-Webster Dictionary, cross-cultural exchange is defined as "dealing with or offering comparison between two or more different cultures or cultural areas". However, it is important to note that cross-cultural exchange can be viewed from a variety of perspectives. Cultural exchange takes place through tourism (focused in the research by Thyne, Lawson and Todd), joint business ventures, higher education (DeLong et al, 2011), and military activities, not to mention the intergroup interactions which are common within multicultural societies. This makes it harder to form a fixed definition about what exactly cross-cultural exchange encases. Nevertheless, it is safe to mention that cross-cultural exchange refers to any activity that involves more than one culture.
Target Group
In analyzing in-person vs virtual cross-cultural exchange, we need not compare the two because they are different aspects that offer different experiences; so they should not be treated as opposites (O'Dowd, 2021). Hybrid programs that combine both in-person and virtual tools are seemingly the best and most progressive way forward. However, hybrid programs need to consider the ratio in which they merge the two tools for cross-cultural exchange in a way that is best fit for the groups involved. There are various groups that can be involved in cross-cultural exchange and this affects how effectively virtual or in-person programs can be used. Countries of origin can affect the ability of participants to travel and engage in in-person activities. Travel restrictions, long wait times to attain visas and other documentation hindrances may limit the access of people from certain countries to engage in in-person cross-cultural exchange programs.
Purpose
The purpose of our research is to assess the effectiveness of cross-cultural communication between in-person and online settings.
Our research will help us evaluate the Pros and Cons of global classrooms and their impact on cultural exchange for young adults.
Our findings are being conducted through primary research in the form of interviews with community leaders and secondary research that is already compiled through various sources such as papers.
The research we acquire is to be presented to GLI's staff, board, and sponsors. We plan to provide ideas that help improve the future of cultural exchange programs within GLI and other Academic programs and institutions.
