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TTI, 303/4
Using Graphic Organizers to Advance Intercultural Disclosure and Awareness 
Richard J. Hodge, Ritsumeikan University, Japan 
Wayne Johnson, Ryukoku University, Japan
 

This paper describes an Action Research project which explores how student generated "graphic organizers" support richer disclosure and competency in impromptu English conversation.
 
Graphic organizers encompass a wide range of expressive forms, including: brainstorming, clusters, schedules, charts, and drawn images. Graphic organizers activate and develop schema, elicit learner disclosure, and support speech. They also allow students to develop an understanding of a body of knowledge, gather and explore new information, access prior knowledge, and share this information with their peers. 

This Action Research project specifically focuses on how graphic organizers have been incorporated into Japanese university classes. Over a period of time, this technique has helped students develop an awareness and skill for using an appropriate level of disclosure in intercultural and cross-cultural settings. Given the 
wide variety of different disclosure levels in various cultures, this research has focused on the importance of raising learner awareness of these differences.