Culture and Cognition: Implications for Cognitive Design of Learning Resources

Abstract

The rapid growth of computer-based learning applications has generated the need for the consideration of learning styles of culturally diverse students. However, few attempts have been made to empirically study the influence of learner's cultural backgrounds on computer-based learning. Many studies have shown that mismatches between students' cultural learning preferences and pedagogy may negatively affect their academic performance and attitudes toward learning. The primary purpose of the study was to evaluate a Web-based tutorial for global positioning systems (GPS) designed by employing culture-centered interface design guidelines that would be compatible with cultural learning preferences of two ethnic groups -African- and European-Americans. Results of the study showed that AA students preferred a Web-based tutorial designed with interface design guidelines that were compatible with their cultural learning preferences. There are several implications for culture-centered cognitive design of learning resource.