Training Soldiers to Decode Nonverbal Cues in Cross-Cultural Interactions

The overall objective of the proposal is to generate guidelines for the conceptual design of an interactive, computer-based training tool to improve Soldiers' ability to decode nonverbal cues and behavior in multiple channels (i.e., vocal tones, gestures). The tool will assist Soldiers to exhibit effective cross-cultural communication skills and prepare them to interpret and predict behavior more accurately in cross-cultural environments. The specific objectives of this Phase I research are to (1) conduct a comprehensive review to identify universal and culture-specific nonverbal cues that are particular to a specific Middle Eastern culture; (2) examine which nonverbal cues are more reliable across American and Arab cultures to determine similarities; (3) investigate which nonverbal cues and behaviors may be misinterpreted across cultures; (4) identify methods for teaching the recognition and interpretation of nonverbal cues cross-culturally; and (5) generate guidelines for the conceptual design of a training approach that is computer-based and interactive to improve Soldiers' ability to decode nonverbal cues and behavior. In Phase II, the development and testing of a prototype system in a realistic environment will be undertaken.