Date of Award
8-2017
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Communications Media
First Advisor
James Lenze
Second Advisor
B. Gail Wilson
Third Advisor
Nurhaya Muchtar
Abstract
Although intercultural communication has long been a vital issue, accelerating globalization and immigration over the past century have increased its importance. Therefore, it is imperative that education and training in intercultural communication are created and continually evaluated for effectiveness. One effective new strategy is the use of technology in this type of training.
This study examines the effectiveness of using HERO I® to enhance intercultural communication skills. HERO I® is a 3D video game that was designed and developed to address the cultural differences between the Middle East and the United States as well as to also educate the trainees about those differences.
Results show that the use of video games is functional on the levels of interpersonal and intercultural communication. Hence, video games may positively influence the intercultural competency of a player. In terms of interpersonal communication, the results as reported in the ICC test after playing the game show the players demonstrating a better understanding of the dispositional factors of interpersonal communication. Thus, video games may function as a productive training tool by which to address abstract aspects of the communication process. Consequently, HERO 1® is expected to address the learning needs of young students whose visual learning style can help them understand abstract concepts.
Recommended Citation
Yousof, Ahmed K., "An Investigation Into the Use of HERO I ®, a Videogame for Interpersonal Communications in Enhancing Intercultural Competency" (2017). Theses and Dissertations (All). 1571.
https://knowledge.library.iup.edu/etd/1571