Culture as a Decision Variable for Designing Computer Software

Abstract

Computer software design generally follows a systematic process that addresses decisions on variables known to influence learning success. We propose that culture should be included as part of this decision process. Culture represents the complex of social, emotional, intellectual, physical, and personal factors that individuals use to create meaning. When these cognitive anchors are missing from instructional materials, achievement may be imperiled. Examples of how cultural variables can be incorporated into instructional decisions are presented to illustrate the potential for enhancing software.