For this project, we were tasked with researching how technology varies across global communities. I chose Portugal because it is on my travel bucket list for its beaches, cuisine, and architecture. However, when I think about travel destinations, I rarely consider their technological landscape. This project provided an opportunity to explore how a culturally rich and popular destination like Portugal compares in terms of technology use and culture. Additionally, I worked with a partner to examine the technological landscape of a completely different country, North Korea.
Portugal is one of the most digitally connected countries in Europe, with widespread public Wi-Fi, even in smaller towns and coastal areas.
North Korea has its own closed internal internet system called Kwangmyong, which allows citizens to access only government-approved websites and information instead of the global internet.
Technology use can be very different depending on a country’s culture, government, and access to resources. Comparing Portugal and North Korea showed me how differently technology can be used depending on a nation’s level of openness, infrastructure, and political system. Working with my partner helped me improve my collaboration and communication skills, , especially while working independently online, by sharing ideas, dividing responsibilities, and combining our individual research into one presentation.