The shift to technology-mediated modes of instructional delivery and increased global connectivity
has led to a rise in globalized e-learning programs. Educational institutions face
multiple challenges as they seek to design effective, engaging, and culturally competent
instruction for an increasingly diverse learner population. The purpose of this study was to
explore strategies for expanding learner analysis within the instructional design process to
better address cultural influences on learning. A case study approach leveraged the experience
of practicing instructional designers to build a framework for culturally competent
learner analysis.
The study discussed the related challenges and recommended strategies to improve the
effectiveness of cross-cultural learner analysis. Based on the findings, a framework for conducting
cross-cultural learner analysis to guide the cultural analysis of diverse learners was
proposed. The study identified the most critical factors in improving cross-cultural learner
analysis as the judicious use of existing research on cross-cultural theories and joint deliberation
on the part of all the participants from the management to the learners. Several
strategies for guiding and improving the cultural inquiry process were summarized. Barriers
and solutions for the requirements are also discussed.