Ontology of Culture: A Procedural Approach for Cultural Adaptation in ITSs

Abstract

We believe that Culture can affect teaching and learning, primarily due to the existence of cultural variables in educational practices. The multiplication of opportunities to learn and teach abroad and the growing desire on the part of universities to attract an international clientele increase the need for cultural adaptation. However, as pointed out by Rogers, Graham and Mayes (2007), teachers are not always aware of these cultural variables. If these cultural variables were made explicit, it would be easier for instructional designers, teachers and learners to adapt to the different cultures. In this article, we present our understanding of the notion of Culture and an upper ontology of Culture modeled according to a procedural approach. We believe that such an approach allows us to make explicit the functionalities of Culture so that we are able to understand how it can influence not only our daily lives, but more particularly teaching and learning. It opens the door to concrete and practical solutions for cultural adaptation in ITSs.