This will provide practice in developing cross-cultural communication, and specific understanding of a culture that is important to ours. Students will also have a focus for their use of technology. Research shows that a focus is necessary for students to utilize the Internet as a learning tool. Through my project, students will gain valuable experience using the Internet in a focused, important manner. Students' progress will be measured by assessing their use of the Internet and their understanding of Japanese culture both before and after they embark on their Internet relationships.
Introductions are extremely important in Japanese society.
American schools will have greater chances for successful Internet relationships if they are introduced to Japanese schools by someone who has met school officials in person. My personal contact will provide specific names, places, photographs and video footage of Hiroshima residents. Students will get a stronger sense of these people as rounded individuals, rather than merely images on a computer screen. I will also use their video equipment to teach others how to create a video project such as this one. I have learned a lot in the process of developing this project, and my experiences will be valuable to others who want to develop a similar project.