Exploring virtual classrooms: network communication in a cross-cultural context

Abstract Using only desktop computers linked to gateway networks, students from around the world can communicate in a ‘virtual classroom'. (A term which is similar in concept to, but in no way associated with the Virtual Classroom Project, a registered trademark of the New Jersey Institute of Technology (Hiltz 1990).) One such network, the Apple Global Education network (AGE), † links over one hundred classes from over 20 countries. This network was evaluated with respect to its role in facilitating cross-cultural communication activities. † Developed by Apple Computer Inc., Cupertino, CA, USA. The nature of communication on the network is described by classifying transmissions sent during a major international crisis: the Gulf War. A taxonomy is proposed containing four levels of network function: audience, diffuser, repository and facilitator. Following the evaluation of the AGE network, recommendations are given to educators regarding network activities in relation to the age and experience of the learner.