ABSTRACT
The geographic and demographic landscape of the world is rapidly changing as societies are becoming more technologically advanced. Globalization has reduced the distance between spaces and increased interdependence and interconnectedness among diverse people throughout the world. A sense of connectedness has increased awareness and knowledge of the economic, environmental, and technological concerns affecting local and international communities (Gerstein, Heppner, Ægisdóttir, Leung, & Norsworthy, 2009). Although global diversity is often viewed as a means for fostering positive interactions within and between societies, the process of creating an interconnected world also has been wrought with global challenges. Information can be delivered instantaneously through cyberspace; however, historical and situational contexts that create meaningful and relevant knowledge may be missing. As a result, knowledge may be limited and is unlikely to be transformative. However, when sufficient and understood within a socio-cultural/ historical context, knowledge may serve as a social catalyst that transforms societies toward economic and social equities.
