One thing i have realised about the Internet is that it is non-discriminatory to people's view's, their color or what they believe in. In an article from JS Online, Erin Richards explains the situation in the American state of Wisconsin: "If the students are African-American, they've been raised in all-black neighborhoods. If they're white, they've grown up in all white neighborhoods. They get there, (university) and we expect them to all learn together" ('Cultural diversity courses take root in schools, Feb. 18, 2008). The same may also be said for Australian white kids learning with kids from Indigenous communities. To foster 'cultural diversity in the online envrionment,' we have look at few points:
- Avoid racial identification except when it is essential to communication
- Avoid language that has questionable racial or ethnic connotations
- Be aware of rules regarding the distance between speakers during conversation.
- Be aware that objects, characters and symbols may reflect different beliefs or values for different groups.
This information can be viewed here
I think in online environments (forums, discussion groups) it is alot easier to support those who have been racially villified by a contributor. This is a great advantage as it allows people to be supportive of one another. Being supportive while collaborating or sharing information is a key part of networks.
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An admirable post, no doubt, but I think that perhaps you may be looking at the situation through rose-coloured glasses. My main objection to your post lies almost purely in your opening statement – “One thing i have realised about the Internet is that it is non-discriminatory to people's view’s, their color or what they believe in.” as I have discussed in a post of my own race is a definite factor on the internet given that Terry Flew identifies ‘whiteness’ as the operating norm in these online environments and makes the claim that those from minority races are forced to hide their differences in order to participate equally (Flew, 2005, 67).
One need only view a discussion board about an issue people may be passionate about, whether it be movies, comics, politics or humans rights issues in order to see not only the vast differences in peoples views and backgrounds but also the lack of respect and support people are able to garner. So while yes, the internet has the potential to serve as a medium that can work in bringing together various diverse groups so too can it become a great divider.
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