Cultural mosaics with mouse clicks: Using the Web to enhance understanding

Abstract

The World Wide Web offers incomparable opportunities to visualize parallel perspectives underlying world cultures, biases, attitudes, behaviors, and opinions. A simple methodology employed at Coastline Community College improves intercultural understanding as well as adaptation to and appreciation of differences. Teachers and learners can exploit electronic “mind tools” as they engage in “cultural dimensions exams” that have been demonstrated to be effective in enlightening culturally diverse adults studying a foreign language. Exam results stimulate both asynchronous and synchronous discussion, as well as the sharing of ideas in the interest of enhancing awareness, understanding, acceptance, and delight in “the other”.