Building bridges: Enlightening foreign correspondents through the virtual classroom

Currently, no model exists for providing lifelong learning opportunities to foreign correspondents. This paper provides a rationale and framework for the development of a foreign correspondent's Internet learning network model which could facilitate structured and semi-structured professional development opportunities. In this context, a discussion of the literature in relation to lifelong learning, the virtual classroom and computer-mediated communication is provided. Sustained exposure to and participation in such a network would provide foreign correspondents with opportunities to enhance their cultural knowledge, sensitivity and perspective and could provide support to what is often a socially, culturally and personally isolating role.