Technology

The development of technology has increased drastically in recent years, playing a major role in globalisation. Technology, in particular the Internet, has changed the ways in which cultures interact with each other. Rantanen, (2005) says, "Globalization is a process in which worldwide economic, political, cultural and social relations have become increasingly mediated across time and space."

At the start of the year I embarked on a three month trip to the city of angels, Los Angeles. It was my first time travelling overseas and my parents were nervous to say the least. They were concerned that they would not be able to contact me as easily and often as they were used to, however they soon realised with the ever growing forces of technology they were able to be updated with my daily activities through social media sites such as Facebook and Instagram. The biggest social outlet that made my parents 'sleep easier at night' was Skype. The fact that they could speak to me and see me in real time was at first confusing for them, but soon became second nature. Showing them how to use it properly before I left proved to be a challenge, it was hilarious at times, picture lots of extreme close ups of their faces and the use of their 'outside voices'. A vivid memory I hold was when my Nan 'Skyped' with me for the first time. She was so astounded that she could see and talk to me from half way across the world that she began to cry.

Santa Monica

Curious how radically times have changed I asked my Dad how he used to keep in contact with his Mum when he was younger, as she was always travelling over to the states for work. With the Internet non-existent, he had to rely on writing letters. The wait for a response would take weeks at a time (there's a reason it's called 'snail mail' after all). On special occasions only, due to it being very expensive, he was able to call his Mum. However unlike phone calls today, it was delayed and lagged, making a conversation near impossible.

It makes you really appreciate how far technology has come. The Internet has had a major role in connecting people and allows us to communicate with anyone from anywhere in the world with the simple click of a button. We are able to read about, listen to, see and talk to people all over the world without even leaving our homes. It really is mind blowing.

This isn't related to this post but this is what AFL was listed as on American TV :P

References:

Rantanen, T. (2005) The Media and Globalisation, Sage, London.