Virtual Worlds

     Modern technology has made it possible for people to communicate over great distances. One of the most popular ways of communicating is through virtual worlds. Virtual worlds are created through the use of computers, XBOX, PlayStation, or similar systems and gadgets that allow people to be linked and share a common automated program or application. Through these programs, individuals are able to interact simultaneously. The use of the Internet and its many functions has become universal. Because of this, people from different regions of the world can participate in virtual worlds which create open lines of intercultural communication.

     “With more and more people using the Internet for online gaming, chatting, business, and other things, cross-cultural communication is happening like never before.” (Bass, 2011) The Internet provides many facets to be used for communication. Virtual worlds are one of many ways for people of different cultures to interact. One of the benefits in using virtual worlds is the exposure to a community of people from different backgrounds.

     The exposure to virtual worlds is an education in itself. Through the interaction with multiple people from different backgrounds, an individual can assimilate information gathered from these individuals about their cultures. The virtual world itself creates a culture of people.

    The limitation of virtual worlds is that in most cases the members who participate will never meet in person. The extent of the relationship between the individuals is the virtual world. There are several barriers outside of the virtual world that can hinder an ongoing relationship. These barriers may include social background or separation by region.

 

Reference

Bass, S. (June, 2011). Virtual Worlds and Intercultural Communication. Retrieved from:

     http://shannondenisebass.blogspot.com/2011/06/virtual-worlds-and-intercultural.html