ICT Technologies and Intercultural Issues

Given the likely increase in intercultural interaction over global computer networks, intersection area between intercultural studies and new communication and information technologies merits study. How successful is intercultural communication in cyberspace? Intercultural education can take advantage of new technologies; but risks also exist: we point out the salvation narrative that a value-free communication technology can provide the means to overcome deep social and cultural divisions. Is it possible to intercultural learning take place in a not culture-free virtual environment? Computer-based simulation games provide players the opportunity to explore potentially threatening topics in a safer arena to confront cultural differences