The Use of English in Intercultural Professional Settings: Virtual Encounters and Identities

The main objective of this publication is to raise awareness of different norms of communication and promote mutual understanding in intercultural contexts. In addition, this issue has a unique focus on virtual encounters and includes the analysis of instances of language (namely, English) connected with various semiotic forms and visual images typical of computer-mediated communication. Research findings are presented with the intent to observe the construction of identity (personal, institutional and social), the establishment of social relationships, as well as the underlying ideology. This type of approach is made possible thanks to direct collaboration between scholars from different cultural and disciplinary backgrounds. Dynamics between east and west have also proved to be extremely positive and productive.