Perception difference analysis using digital technology: case study on Ghanaian Adinkra symbols and Chinese traditional symbols

Abstract

Based on data analysis, this study measured the level of perception of Ghanaians and Chinese cultural symbols. The objective was to investigate the possible differences and misconception in visual perception and comprehension between Ghanaians and Chinese. One hundred symbols, fifty from Ghana and fifty from China was used to administer questions in a survey to a total of hundred Ghanaian and Chinese subjects. By employing digital technology such as data collection and data analysis the most typical and least typical cultural symbols among both countries were collected. Further analysis was done to find out the factors affecting the perception of symbols by subjects and interaction effects between genders. Findings show that at least 40% of both Ghanaian and Chinese subjects had a relatively good knowledge of their cultural symbols which help identify them as typical symbols of their nations. The cultures of the subjects played a significant role on the results while gender, level of education, employment and the academic status of individuals impacted minutely on the outcome. The significant outcome of this study provides the basic foundation for researchers who are interested in examining cross cultural perception of cultural symbols. This study increases the need for awareness of cultural symbols and their meanings outside a country’s borders.