A game to gain awareness of cultural differences : Comparing the effect of a social game and an open discussion exercise

Abstract: This thesis explores whether a social game shows indications of being more effective to raise awareness of cultural differences than an open discussion exercise. Within the field of Serious Games there are studies exploring the area. Among them some studies aim to train the cultural understanding of military personnel or are business relationship oriented, while others try to motivate immigrant to interact with local population or convey situation which may lead to culture shock.To conduct the experiment critical incidents were developed using a model where individualistic and collectivistic cultures are compared in social and work related situations. Participants, students from Swedish for immigrants, were divided into two groups. One group was playing the game and the other was having an open discussion exercise. Results show after the session and three weeks later indications of the game being more effective raising awareness of cultural differences.