International Journal of Education and Development using ICT

International Journal of Education and Development using ICT > Vol. 10, No. 1 (2014)

ICT-based, cross-cultural communication - a methodological perspective

Niels Larsen, Kijani Institute, Denmark
Maria Bruselius-Jensen, Steno Health Promotion Center, Gentofte, Denmark
Dina Danielsen, Steno Health Promotion Center, Gentofte, Denmark
Rachael Kaki Nyamai, Parliament of Kenya, The National Assembly
James Elijah Otiende, Kenyatta University
Jens Aagaard-Hansen, Steno Health Promotion Center, Gentofte, Denmark

Abstract
The article discusses how cross-cultural communication based on information and communication technologies (ICT) may be used in participatory health promotion as well as in education in general. The analysis draws on experiences from a health education research project with grade 6 (approx. 12 years) pupils in Nairobi (Kenya) and Copenhagen (Denmark) addressing the topic of physical activity in everyday life. The article outlines a sequence of educational events (the Cross-Cultural Communication (3C) model) comprising exchange of letters, recording and exchange of films and Skype communication sessions interchanging with reflection sessions in the classes. The educational rationale for using cross-cultural communication is that meeting the unfamiliar (different children, cultures, schools and contexts) leads to curiosity and reflection about one’s own situation; and subsequently that reflectivity builds action competence. In the present case study, 3C was used as a means of health promotion, but the approach may be used in relation to almost any topic. The 3C model is discussed in relation to theories of co-learning, knowledge guiding and sharing and genuine participation. The article discusses methodological potentials and challenges.

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