Video-Conferencing in a Foreign Language:Cross-Cultural Communication among University Students through Cyber Forums

摘要

This study considers the role of new technologies in facilitating cross cultural communication between the East and the West through cyber-forums. In particular, it looks at using video-conferencing to build a network of university students from Jordan, and from Europe and the United States to empower them to bridge the gap between the West and the Arab World. The study explores the Jordanian students' perception of what they have in common with their counterparts before and after exchanges, and compares it to that of the other participants form the Middle East, on one hand, and western countries, on the other. The data were collected through analyzing random sessions conducted in English as a foreign language over a period of two months, structured interviews and online questionnaires before and after exchanges. The results indicated that the forums have a significant effect on improving the participants' attitudes towards the students from Western countries. In addition, they play an effective role in building knowledge and relationships, increasing understanding, developing media literacy and communication skills, and promoting a sense of empowerment among its participants. Recommendations are made regarding integrating such forums in EFL courses.