Socio-Cultural Considerations in International Geomatics Training

The perception of science and scientific findings can vary significantly between different cultures. In order to meaning fully convey scientific and technical information to international audiences, particularly in a training context, an appreciation of cross-cultural communication differences is essential. <p> This paper is derived from a curriculum developed by the Training and Technology Transfer Section (TTTS) of the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing for trainers and scientist/trainers who are new to international projects. The TTTS curriculum is directed at improving the delivery of geomatics training to different countries and cultures. It places primary emphasis on socio-cultural considerations, as they relate to effective cross-cultural training and technology transfer. The discussion includes measures of effectiveness of such training and elements of culture that have the greatest effect on learning. The concepts of adult learning are also discussed. <p> Based on the TTTS experience and that of other colleagues from CCRS and elsewhere, this paper provides ideas for geomatics specialists who will find themselves doing double duty as applications specialists and trainers in the international environment. To illustrate the complexity and diversity of international training, references are made to materials in the workshop, such as field-proven models, examples and anecdotal information. <p> Though oriented towards geomatics, the workshop curriculum outlined in the paper may be extended to other training situations involving complex technology transfer and the goal of sustainable application.