The article discusses how cross-cultural communication based on information and communication technologies (ICT) may be used in participatory health promotion as well as in education in general. The analysis draws on experiences from a health education research project with grade 6 pupils in Nairobi (Kenya) and Copenhagen (Denmark) addressing the topic of physical activity in everyday life.

The article outlines a sequence of educational events (the Cross-Cultural Communication (3C) model) comprising exchange of letters, recording and exchange of films1 and Skype communication sessions interchanging with reflection sessions in the classes. The educational rationale for using cross-cultural communication is that meeting the unfamiliar (different children, cultures, schools and contexts) leads to curiosity and reflection about one’s own situation; and subsequently that reflexivity builds action competence. In the present case study, the 3C model was used as a means of health promotion, but the approach may be used in relation to almost any topic. The 3C model is discussed in relation to theories of co-learning, knowledge guiding and sharing and participation. The article discusses methodological potentials and challenges.

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