Concurrent Sessions

Identifying and Understanding Cultural Influences in Business Communication: Cross-Cultural E-Mail Communication Project

Authors: Becca R. Farr (Iowa State University) , Mary A. Littrell (Iowa State University)

Abstract

International communication can be difficult when you have the benefit of intonation and nonverbal communication. Difficulty is increased when those aids are removed as with e-mail communication. Composing e-mails for business and recognizing cultural influences in international communication are needed skills for today's graduates. A project was developed and implemented in a junior level dress and culture class at a large Mid-western university to facilitate development of such abilities. The purpose of the cross-cultural e-mail communication project was to introduce students to international communication and the influence culture plays when using e-mail. Student groups functioned like product development teams responsible for sourcing one of their firms' products.

Keywords:

How to Cite: Farr, B. R. & Littrell, M. A. (1998) “Identifying and Understanding Cultural Influences in Business Communication: Cross-Cultural E-Mail Communication Project”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings. 1999(1).