Introduction
In the realm of education, cultural differences can significantly impact student performance. A recent study titled The surprising underperformance of East Asians in US law and business schools: The liability of low assertiveness and the ameliorative potential of online classrooms provides valuable insights into how cultural factors affect academic outcomes and how online classrooms can mitigate these challenges. This blog explores how practitioners can leverage these findings to improve educational outcomes for diverse student populations.
Understanding the Research
The study conducted by Lu, Nisbett, and Morris (2022) highlights the underperformance of East Asians in US law and business schools, attributed to cultural differences in assertiveness. Despite excelling in admission tests, East Asians often receive lower grades in courses emphasizing verbal assertiveness and class participation, such as leadership and strategy. The research suggests that this underperformance is not due to a lack of motivation or English proficiency but rather a cultural incongruence with the assertive communication style favored in these educational settings.
The Role of Online Classrooms
Interestingly, the study found that online classrooms, particularly those conducted via platforms like Zoom, can mitigate the underperformance of East Asian students. Online environments reduce social presence, allowing students more time to formulate responses and participate without the immediate pressure of in-person interactions. This finding underscores the potential of online classrooms to create a more inclusive learning environment for students from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners, these findings offer several actionable insights:
- Encourage Participation: Create opportunities for all students to engage in discussions, recognizing that some may require more time or different formats to express their thoughts.
- Leverage Online Tools: Utilize online platforms to facilitate discussions and provide alternative channels for participation, such as forums or written responses.
- Foster Inclusivity: Be mindful of cultural differences in communication styles and adjust pedagogical practices to accommodate diverse student needs.
- Promote Assertiveness Training: Offer workshops or activities that help students develop assertiveness skills in a supportive environment.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, it also highlights the need for further research into the educational experiences of culturally diverse students. Practitioners are encouraged to explore how different educational settings and teaching methods can impact student performance and to contribute to the development of more inclusive educational practices.
Conclusion
The findings from this research underscore the importance of understanding and addressing cultural differences in educational settings. By leveraging the potential of online classrooms and fostering an inclusive learning environment, practitioners can help bridge the gap in educational outcomes for students from diverse cultural backgrounds.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The surprising underperformance of East Asians in US law and business schools: The liability of low assertiveness and the ameliorative potential of online classrooms.
