SOCIAL MEDIA AND VIRTUAL PLATFORMS FACILITATOR'S FOR INTERCULTURAL DIALOGUE.
SOCIAL MEDIA AND VIRTUAL PLATFORMS FACILITATOR'S FOR INTERCULTURAL DIALOGUE.

Summary/Abstract: The present paper debates the topic of intercultural dialogue in the context of global and multicultural societies. Nowadays key issues like intercultural communication, intercultural sensitivity and tolerance are becoming a must rather than an option. The international context of terrorism and numerous conflictual religious aspects require a careful analysis and understanding of how we can improve the communication and negotiation among nations. The paper tries to answer questions like: Is intercultural dialogue possible in the virtual world? Such an initiative brings positive or negative contributions? Could the virtual environment support and eliminate some of the major disparities perceived by individuals? The social media, such as web-based forums, or wiki's, provide opportunities for collaboration among diverse cultures? Research until now suggests that a mix of new media platforms, including on-line and video chat/conferencing, may increase the chances for achieving intercultural dialogue. Literature on virtual intercultural dialogue is limited, but the evidence suggests that it is challenged by many of the same factors that affect intercultural dialogue in real communities. One impact that social media has on intercultural dialogue is the common medium for exchanging messages. People around the globe can use the Internet to communicate and collaborate. Such a self- development tool is insufficiently exploited for now; it reduces time and space, gives the opportunities of mutual ideas before physical contact. People find a common ground, they are encouraged to debate to find new ideas to discover passions and hobbies without the actual material contact. Such an opportunity creates a virtual portrait starting from the positive side of every individual and many find themselves encouraged to act natural in such a virtual world. The present paper will provide an inventory of online supporting intercultural dialogue platforms with possible improvement suggestions for further use.

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