ABSTRACT

Approaching the 21st century gives pause to reflect on the many social and economic changes as well as technological advances that have influenced American lives. Globalization and technology have reduced the distance between people and cultures, affecting lifestyles both locally and internationally, as we now have access to immediate information and knowledge. These events have changed the context of education and the nature of learning. From an international perspective, “…nations and people are confronting increased cultural diversity in their economic, political, and social spheres. Many changes occurring within the borders of most nations force people of different backgrounds to interact in ways never imagined a generation ago” (Cushner, 1998, p. 1). Not only are Americans finding commonalities with people living in other regions of our nation, but mutual interests exist between people living in different parts of the world. As we learn to accept, respect, and appreciate cultural differences in the world, common goals among people include understanding the role of culture and socialization in the development of identity and understanding how identity affects our relationships with others.