Cultural Differences in Online Learning: International Student Perceptions

Abstract

This article reports the findings of a case study that investigated the perceptions of international students regarding the impact of cultural differences on their learning experiences in an online MBA program. The study also revealed that online instructors need to design courses in such a way as to remove potential cultural barriers, including language, communication tool use, plagiarism, time zone differences and a lack of multicultural content, which may affect international students ’ learning performances. The study indicates that a culturally inclusive learning environment needs to consider diversity in course design in order to ensure full participation by international students.