Using films in teaching intercultural concepts: An action research project at two universities in India and the United States

Abstract

Films are used as a tool for teaching cross-cultural and intercultural concepts in higher education and in corporate settings. However, the processes and outcomes of using films in intercultural training and education have not been systematically researched. This paper discusses the results of a collaborative project involving faculty and students from two universities, a large public university in the Midwestern United States and a private university in India. The goal of this action research project was to further develop a methodological approach to using a feature film, Outsourced, in teaching cross-cultural concepts to graduate students, and to understand how different cultural contexts affect the effectiveness of the use of films. The project involved development and implementation of the new approach and research on the factors affecting the effectiveness of using films in cross-cultural training. KeywordsFilms; intercultural training; intercultural education; HRD students; management students Films (this term is used in this paper for feature/popular films) are used in management education and in corporate training to provide a backdrop for discussion of various theories and models, and to communicate ideas and concepts in memorable and engaging fashion. According to Champoux (1999), films are a familiar medium to students and, therefore, they can be effective in ensuring students' interest in otherwise dry theories and concepts. Films expose students to powerful and unique experiences not simulated in a classroom that provoke strong emotional reactions, and stimulate animated discussions that could lead to reassessment of one's values and self-image if the scenes in the films have strong emotional content (Champoux, 1999). Champoux (1999) suggested that films could be used in

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