What is the true benefit of studying abroad?
Is it meeting new people, learning about new cultures, experiences new languages?
If that’s the case, can it be done virtually?
That’s the question we have after reading this article about how the virtual reality “videogame” Second Life is spreading into study abroad.
At StudyAbroad.com, we believe one of the best benefits of study abroad is the improved foreign relations that comes with it. The student traveling learns more about the host country, and everyone that student interacts with learns more about the student’s home country. Can this occur as effectively (or at all) online? Is seeing a virtual representation of the Louvre in Paris as culturally beneficial as taking art classes within the museum’s walls? Can a Second Life user pick up the customs and international knowledge necessary to thrive in a global environment?
On the other hand, is some semblance of study abroad better than none at all, and so is this an acceptable alternative for those who don’t think they can afford a real summer abroad/semester abroad/year abroad in another country?
You tell us. What do you think about this? I’ll say one thing – when the Lincoln Commission created its goal of sending 1 million students abroad by 2010, I doubt they counted this.
2 responses so far ↓
1 Sour Patch // Jul 10, 2008 at 9:06 pm
This is totally preposterous! There is nothing like actually being on the ground in a country and learning from the locals. It may be worthwhile as an addition to a program but not as a replacement. But probably not!
2 JDuncan // Jul 14, 2008 at 10:32 am
I would agree with you but I am excited about how technology is advancing. Some of the virtual reality stuff makes me feel like we are living in a sci fi movie from 50 years ago.
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