Impact of Cultural Dimensions on E-Learning under Face-to-Face Learning Mode and Distance Learning Mode in Papua New Guinea

摘要

E-learning provides for virtual interactive learning. However, people in certain social structures prefer customized and face-to-face learning to e-learning due to the influence of their culture-specific factors on the learning process. This paper examined the impact of cultural factors on face-to-face and distance learning modes in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The study used the Hofstede's cultural variables to assess the impact of culture on e-learning, and concluded that cultural factors did not contribute to success in e-learning. It is therefore suggested that e-learning should be complimented with the instructors and/or tutors support for face-to face interaction in the societies like PNG viz., high power distance, high degree of uncertainty avoidance, collectivism and femineity.