During the Spring Semester of 2018, we applied the phases of CBL to develop a prototype (proof of concept) adaptation of an existing online course using the prescribed text, standard syllabus, and Blackboard 9.1. In this report, the four phases of the CBL model are explained, each phase is discussed as it relates to the design, implementation, and delivery of the intercultural organization communication simulation. During the design, the intercultural communication department of Global Holdings, Ltd was conceptualized as a communication service department. A service department prepares messages in different forms and different media for different stack holders who are internal or external to the organization. Challenges were created and presented to the division associates (enrolled learners) using Voki avatars to represent the corporate leaders. Associates worked individually, in pairs or as a team to meet the challenge and produce a digital artifact of their learning. While completing the challenge, the associates had the opportunity to develop interpersonal and small group team communication skills through using audio and video conferencing software. After a review of the features of the prototype as proof of concept, suggestions for additional development are considered.

1. CBL in Intercultural Communication
Prototype Demonstration
Challenge Based Learning
CPS, Undergraduate Communication Studies
Northeastern University Charles A. Findley, Ph.D.

2. Welcome to Global Holdings
Greeting to New Associates

3. Four stage model for CBL simulation
Challenges are tasks based in real-life situations
Pre-Pre Challenge
(planning and
development)
Design Challenges
Curate Resources
Pre Challenge—
Present challenge to
the associate
learner
Challenge—Associate
learner engages in
applying knowledge to
create artifact to
demonstrate mastery of
challenge.
Post Challenge—
assessment, discussion
and debriefing

4. Main Menu Challenge 1
Outline for Speech of Introduction
Learner clicks
on Challenge
assignment

5. First Challenge Outline for Speech of Introduction
Applied knowledge of interpersonal mediated
interviewing
Synthesis of content from interview
Applied knowledge of three part speech organization and outline
Supporting resources included in the Challenge folder
Associates get to meet and greet each other

6. Challenge 6, Partnership with Space X, Design for New World
Division
Applied knowledge of cultural values,
environment and space travel
Creative Brainstorming
Interpersonal Mediated Communication
Self-directed research about latest new
inhabitable environment
Support Resources in Challenge Assignment
folder including basic references for culture
values and Ross 128 b

7. Challenge 9, Non-verbal Communication Infographic
Applied knowledge of the important and
popular domain of non-verbal communication
Knowledge synthesis
Interpersonal mediated communication
Artifact is infographic with texted and
embedded graphics

8. Challenge Write Case for Training Global Issues
Applied knowledge world problems Energy
Consumption
Knowledge synthesis
Writing problem-solution organizational
structure
Interpersonal Mediated Communication
Support resources in Challenge folder

9. Final Challenge—analysis of organizational culture for recruiters
Annual Report, State of
Organizational Culture (Final Report)
Applied knowledge Corporate
workplace cultural values
Team Project, Collaboration and
project planning
Power Point Presentation with
narration from written report
Small group communication in
virtual team context

10. Conclusions—summary and new directions
Authenticate real world
challenges
Identify underlying
competencies
Define cooperative and
collaborative challenges
Supporting resources
Add curated resources
Recommend paths and
leveling
Support Communication
process Interpersonal
and team mediated
communication
Structured Simulation with
Voki avatars
Question– media rich
enough?
Advantage Flexible
CBL simulation challenges & artifacts
Nine challenges
Two case studies
Cultural analysis Power Point for new hires