Objectives
A. Explain how cultural and global issues affect communication.
B. Appreciate the impact of communication on society and the world; and
C. Discuss the impact of globalization on how people communicate and vice-versa.
From simple smoke signals and sending messenger pigeons to high-tech video conferencing, communication has extensively changed. Along its transition, it has likewise brought changes to the lifestyle of the communicators. Technology have greatly influenced the lives of modern men. But what exactly are its effects on the people around the world?
The Process of globalization has widely increased the availability of information for people across the world. The emergence of internet and advanced mobile services has allowed people to discuss business plans and proposals on an international level as well as exchange private data securely. Global communication services have likewise contributed to the enlightenment and development of the political process in a number of countries.
The availability of information is one of the major effects of the process of globalization. Large multinational corporations, in its works focused on the cultural dimensions of globalization, have expressed that with the spread of businesses delivering internet, satellite TV and mobile services, the costs of such information technologies drop. The decreased price makes it easier for people across the world to make use o the World Wide Web and the resources available.
Globalization has influenced global communication by implementing new techniques for business conduct among workers at international corporation. Long-distance travels are no longer necessary for business people should they require a meeting with a partner overseas. Internet Technology makes it possible to exchange business information and conduct video conferences. It enhanced the promotion of products more efficiently on the international market. This significantly changed the business world.
The availability of information, which is a direct effect of the development of global communication systems, has led to increase social awareness of people across the world. Information technology and networks enable them to share opinions, views on projects and research different areas. These are among the main reasons why the process of globalization is creating a sense of global society. For example the use of communication, many students from the developing countries enroll in university degrees in the developed world. Education is only a single sector of the social awareness.
Despite its quick spread and continuous developments, global communication has not reached the majority of people on all continents. A study revealed that at least 70% of all people in Africa never make a single phone call of use internet. This demonstrate the need of a more extensive application of communication technologies as part of the process of globalization.
Connecting with people on the other side of the world is now much easier that it was a few years ago. Satellite, optic cables and the internet make it effortless to share information with those in different time zones and locations. Global Communication is directly affected by the process of globalization, and helps to increase business opportunities, remove cultural barriers and develop a global village. Both Globalization and global communication have changed the environmental, cultural, political and economic elements of the world.
Many companies today hire employers that are located in other countries. Imagine not being able to talk to them instantly. Using communication vehicles such as video calling make it simple to converse with colleagues across the globe, almost making it feels as if they are in the same room.
Many people perceive culture to be the root of communication challenges. When people from two different cultures try to exchange information, the way they speak, their body language of their mannerisms can be interpreted differently by the other person. The way people approach problems and how they participate in communities is all influenced by culture.
Globalization has made it possible, for example, for someone in Japan to understand how someone in the US goes about their day. With television and movies, cultural barriers are becoming less prevalent. Being able to communicate effectively and frequently with colleagues or friends across the planet helps people understand each other's cultures a little better.
Directions: Answer the following questions comprehensively. (5 points each)
How does globalization improve the world communication?
Is sharing information through social media always beneficial? Explain your answer.
What could be a negative effect of globalization to a certain country, particularly to a developing country? Cite a particularly example.
According to Ahmed, what are the effects of globalization on global communication?
How does globalization address the cultural barriers between and among countries?