Distance-learning receptivity differences between American and Korean graduate students

Abstract

The purposes of this study were to determine if differences exist in distance-learning receptivity and perceived technology usefulness between American and Korean graduate students as well as Individualists and Collectivists. Results indicated that the two groups differed in distance-learning receptivity and perceived technology usefulness. However, cultural value tendency did not influence either receptivity or usefulness. Recommendations based on this study: 1. Researchers who are interested in cross-cultural field of distance learning should find what potential factors influence the differences in the receptivity and perceived usefulness between American and Korean group. 2. Administrators and decision makers who want to implement or adopt distance learning for their employees or students need to understand that cultural value, at least individualism and collectivism, is not a significant factor in distance learning. Instead, they should understand the importance of prior experience because people feel that distance is better than they??ve ever thought possible once they experience. 3. In implementing distance learning, practitioners should consider interactive media more than non-interactive media. Distance learning is mostly dependent upon technology. Practitioners should consider that distance-learning technology should be developed in terms of perceived usefulness to users. 4. In respect to usefulness, advanced and contemporary technologies were perceived more useful than traditional technologies in distance learning. Therefore, practitioners should also consider advanced technology rather than traditional technology in distance learning. Recommendations for future research: 1. It is suggested that Hofstede??s other cultural value dimensions should be included in future studies. 2. Future researchers should consider other factors such as personal background, learning style, skill level, and motivation. 3. Future research is needed to extend the current findings and test their generalizability to other types of users, for example, undergraduate students or organization employees. 4. This study used American and Korean samples only. Other national cultures should be tested with various cultural dimensions in a future study.