It All Begins with You: A Role Playing Application for Analyzing Intercultural Communication
Dr. Chynette Nealy

Abstract
This article aims to contribute to literature by describing how collaborative learning can be used in Business Communication courses at universities to teach learners about culture as it relates to Intercultural Communication. The author discusses how role playing cultural scenarios develop skills and lessen knowledge gaps about culture. Ethnographic research methods were applied to capture learners’ experiences while training to develop cultural knowledge and cultural competency in terms of understanding and applying Intercultural Communication. These experiences were analyzed using data such as personal observations, analyses of documents, and presentations. Results of this exploratory study indicated positive learner outcomes related to developing cultural knowledge and cultural competency via engaging training methods. Viewed through the lens of closing the gap between theory and practice, results provide evidence that support a longitudinal study focusing on developing pedagogical strategies that equip learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to improve Intercultural Communication.

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