Intercultural Education and Virtual Reality

In this article, the idea of having an interconnected 'web' of knowledge is the key to expanding on the already fast growing trend of utilizing technology in the classroom. As the information accessed on the web can actually lead to more questions than answers the 'The Knowledge Web' has been developed. K-Web, demonstrates that all subjects are connected and offers an innovative, accessible, interactive tool for their exploration. The Knowledge Web is not only the product of a community, but it is itself a community building tool. All contributors are potential resources.

Since this web virtual community is in its infancy, it is hard to tell how it might actually work. However, the leading forces behind it are part of PBS's Discovery and have been doing field tests of K-Web. From what I understand, the program would work as a virtual avatar of professionals and experts on subjects. This way, the information that is being gained by the user is the most current, up-to-date, and most importantly accurate. I am not exactly sure if this will take off like wildfire. It sounds like a very complex version of Wikipedia. How does one know things are valid? How would this 'virtual reality' really be a benefit to a classroom in which the reality of things is 'sitting in a classroom'. I guess we will wait and see if 'Avatar' the movie can influence the use of avatars as the motive!