Internationalization of eLearning - Consideration of Culture-specific Differences of Self-directed Learning Ability

In the course of globalization there is a world-wide demand for increased use of eLearning, offering a variety of design possibilities supporting self-directed learning. However, a high degree of self-directed learning does not necessarily result in higher learning success. This paper reviews and compiles the current research, and points out how current IS research can be enriched by applying learning psychological approaches. Considering the current limitations, we qualitatively and quantitatively investigate culture sensitive success factors of eLearning with respect to overall satisfaction and learning success, comparing China and Germany. We hypothesize that eLearning outcome, regulated by the offered degree of self-directed learning possibilities, is dependent on a learner’s cultural background. The quantitative survey is ongoing, with more than 1.500 completed questionnaires so far. Its purpose is to explore the main cross-culture differences that need to be considered for eLearning arrangements, and how such settings can be optimized.