E-learning in India: the role of national culture and strategic implications

• Published in: Multicultural education & technology journal 2011-06, Vol.5 (2), p.129-150
• Main Author: Rao, Pramila
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Asynchronous Communication; Career Development; Cognitive style; Computer Uses in Education; Cultural Influences; Culture; Distance learning; Educational Environment; Educational Technology; Electronic Learning; Employees; Foreign Countries; Global Approach; Human resource management; India; Learning Processes; Learning Theories; Online instruction; Outcomes of Education; Power Structure; Social Influences; Studies; Synchronous Communication; Teaching methods; Training
• ISSN: 1750-497X; 2053-535X; 1750-4988; 2053-5368
• DOI: 10.1108/17504971111142664

Purpose - The primary purpose of this research paper is to understand the role of national cultural dimensions on e-learning practices in India. India is considered a major player in the world economy today. US multinationals are significantly increasing their presence in India and understanding cultural preferences will help global companies transition better.Design methodology approach - This conceptual paper uses the national cultural dimensions of the global leadership and organizational behavior effectiveness project, which is identified as the most topical theoretical framework on culture. The national cultural scores are used to develop hypotheses for specific cultural dimensions. Examples from the literature are also used to strengthen the proposed hypotheses.Findings - This research proposes that national cultural dimensions of power distance, uncertainty avoidance, in-group collectivism, and future-orientation influence e-learning practices. This study distinguishes between synchronous and asynchronous methods of e-learning and the role of culture on the same. Future research can definitely empirically test the hypotheses proposed.Practical implications - This study provides strategic implications for multinationals with a guide sheet identifying the role of the various cultural dimensions on e-learning. The suggested strategies can be implemented by multinationals in other countries with similar national cultural dimensions also.Originality value - This research also proposes a theoretical e-learning model identifying the impact of national cultural dimensions on e-learning practices. This research also provides practitioners a strategic implications model that could be implemented for e-learning initiatives in multinationals.