<P> Research has indicated that certain themes and images such as children, animals, life cycles, relationships, and sports can transcend cultural differences, and may be used in international settings such as traditional and online university classrooms to create common ground among diverse cultures (Van Hook, 2011). </P> <P> The main theories for cross-cultural communication are based on the work done looking at value differences between different cultures, especially the works of Edward T. Hall, Richard D. Lewis, Geert Hofstede, and Fons Trompenaars . Clifford Geertz was also a contributor to this field . Also Jussi V. Koivisto's model on cultural crossing in internationally operating organizations elaborates from this base of research . </P> <P> These theories have been applied to a variety of different communication theories and settings, including general business and management (Fons Trompenaars and Charles Hampden - Turner) and marketing (Marieke de Mooij, Stephan Dahl). There have also been several successful educational projects which concentrate on the practical applications of these theories in cross-cultural situations . </P> <P> These theories have also been criticized mainly by management scholars (e.g. Nigel Holden) for being based on the culture concept derived from 19th century cultural anthropology and emphasizing on culture - as - difference and culture - as - essence . Another criticism has been the uncritical way Hofstede's dimensions are served up in textbooks as facts (Peter W. Cardon). There is a move to focus on' cross-cultural interdependence' instead of the traditional views of comparative differences and similarities between cultures . Cross-cultural management is increasingly seen as a form of knowledge management . Cross cultural communication gives opportunities to share ideas, experiences, and different perspectives and perception by interacting with local people . </P>

Outline the significance of cross cultural communication in global business environment