A Multicultural Learning Solutions' (MLS) prototype was designed in the spring 2002. MLS has a hybrid structure, combining traditional in-class, instructor-guided teaching, with online learning instruction. MLS utilizesa new, interactive and fun approach to multicultural learning, incorporating and stimulating many of the learning intelligences, as described in Howard Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences research, including interpersonal, intrapersonal, verbal/linguistic, visual/spatial, bodily/kinesthetic, musical/rhythmic, existentialist, and emotional learning intelligences.
Methods of instruction include but are not limited to:
- lectures (PowerPoint enhanced)
- in-class and online-threaded discussions
- global case studies
- cultural Immersion project
- global guest speakers
- multicultural feature films
- individual exercises and group activities
- international media analysis
- global role plays
- cultural simulations
- short instructional videos
- international and multicultural interviews
The balance between the diverse activities, reading material and communication collaboration in an online discussion forum, provides an interactive learning environment that has the potential to reduce ethnocentric attitudes in individuals.
Topics featured include but are not limited to:
- history and evolution of culture and communication
- cultural and intercultural personal development
- multicultural competence inside and outside the United States
- verbal and nonverbal communication in different cultures
- international food, social etiquette and customs
- cultural transitions and adaptation i.e. culture shock and reversed culture shock
- constructive intercultural conflict management
- multicultural and international ethics
- multicultural and global workplaces
MLS Instructional Model
MLS is based on a multicultural instructional model that incorporates three forms of communication.
'Individual-to-Content' Communication
Multicultural readings and assignments foster interaction between learners and content in MLS.'Individual-to-Instructor' Communication
In addition to traditional interaction between the MLS participant and the instructor, an Online Multicultural Discussion Forum (OMDF), which supports individual and instructor interaction, is a part of MLS.'Individual-to-Individual' Communication
MLS participants posting answers to assigned questions and commenting on the reactions and thoughts of their peers in an online forum engage in 'individual–to–individual' contact, which is crucial for learning success. The flowchart provides more detail on the various components incorporated in the interactive student-centered structure of MLS trainings.MLS Unit Content
Each MLS training begins with a general multicultural introduction which lays the foundation for expanding global mindedness and multicultural awareness. A variety of individual cultural content topics, based on the specific needs of the participants, is introduced and discussed. Depending on the interests of the individual participants, course focus or learning emphasis, an existing MLS training can be easily modified to fit a specific learning purpose. The graphic demonstrates how the individual cultural content topics can be expanded from the core component, the general multicultural introduction, of a MLS instructional unit.
