ERIC Number: EJ1134262
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2017-Apr
Pages: 25
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1042-1629
EISSN: N/A
The Efficacy of an Immersive 3D Virtual versus 2D Web Environment in Intercultural Sensitivity Acquisition
Coffey, Amy Jo; Kamhawi, Rasha; Fishwick, Paul; Henderson, Julie
Educational Technology Research and Development, v65 n2 p455-479 Apr 2017
Relatively few studies have empirically tested computer-based immersive virtual environments' efficacy in teaching or enhancing pro-social attitudes, such as intercultural sensitivity. This channel study experiment was conducted (N = 159) to compare what effects, if any, an immersive 3D virtual environment would have upon subjects' intercultural sensitivity, compared to a 2D web environment. Significant gains in intercultural sensitivity were found, with subjects exposed to the Second Life-based immersive virtual environment scoring higher than web-based subjects, both toward other cultures in general and toward Chinese culture in particular. An interaction effect for gender and channel was found, with males experiencing greater intercultural sensitivity outcomes than in a web environment. These empirical findings add to our theoretical understanding of channel effects and intercultural sensitivity. The results can guide cultural instructors or trainers toward the best platforms for content delivery to learners. These findings are worthy of future investigation to better understand their application in educational endeavors as well as in other fields.
Descriptors: Computer Simulation, Simulated Environment, Computer Uses in Education, Instructional Effectiveness, Prosocial Behavior, Cultural Awareness, Educational Experiments, Comparative Analysis, Social Systems, Internet, Web Based Instruction, Scores, Outcomes of Education, Gender Differences, Delivery Systems, Asian Culture
Springer. 233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-348-4505; e-mail: service-ny@springer.com; Web site: http://www.springerlink.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: US Army (DOD)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: 00066834