Articles
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Colonial Propaganda In The Belgian Congo Through Postage Stamps (1894–1960): A Quantitative Content Analysis
Abstract: Despite extensive scholarship on colonial propaganda, the use of postage stamps as tools of imperial messaging remains underexplored. This study aims to examine how Belgium employed postage stamps to construct and disseminate propagandistic narratives about its African colony, the Belgian Congo. Using quantitative content analysis, the research analyses a corpus of 149 stamps issued between 1894 and 1960, tracing how visual themes evolved... [...] Read more
Reducing Ethnocultural Bias in Assessing Students’ Intercultural Competence: An Emic-Etic Approach
Abstract: Intercultural competence (ICC) is now widely recognized as essential to living and working in an increasingly globalized and multicultural world. As a result, considerable attention and resources are devoted to programs for enhancing and assessing ICC, particularly within post-secondary institutions. Concomitantly, these efforts have spurred a massive increase in the volume of publications focused on fostering students’ ICC. Yet, recently,... [...] Read more
Comparative Study of the Utilization of Social Media by Indigenous Religious Organizations in Indonesia: The Cases of Paguyuban Budaya Bangsa and Lalang Rondor Malesung
Abstract: This study explores the use of social media by indigenous religious organizations in Indonesia to preserve cultural identity and teachings amidst the challenges of the digital era. Focusing on two contrasting cases—Paguyuban Budaya Bangsa (PBB) in Central Java and Lalang Rondor Malesung (Laroma) in North Sulawesi—the research examines how each organization approaches digital adaptation within its social and cultural context. PBB, with its... [...] Read more
Power Dynamics as Reflected in Tshivenḓa Heritage Forms of Address: A Study From Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Abstract: This sociolinguistic study explores the power dynamics reflected in Tshivenḓa heritage forms of address in the Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Power dynamics refer to the ways in which power is distributed, exercised, and negotiated within social relationships, organisations, and broader societal structures. They encompass how authority is allocated, how individuals or groups assert influence, and how power shifts or is... [...] Read more
The Role of Political Public Relations In Enhancing Voter Engagement: 2020 Jordanian Parliamentary Election As A Case Study
Abstract: Why do political messages so often fail to persuade voters and increase voter turnout, and what does this reveal about voter decision-making? In Jordan, scholars and journalists have long highlighted the challenges associated with low voter turnout in parliamentary elections. However, the media framing techniques intended to engage voters, the reasons these frames have failed—particularly in mobilizing youth participation in the 2020... [...] Read more
Ostensible Commissive Speech Acts In Saudi Spoken Arabic: Socio-Pragmatic Functions
Abstract: This study examines the sociopragmatic functions of ostensible commissive speech acts in Saudi spoken Arabic, focusing on invitations and offers. Using a mixed-methods approach that combined participant observation and recall interviews, we analyzed 58 naturally occurring instances through the lenses of speech act theory, politeness theory, and the joint pretense model. The findings reveal eight core communicative functions: signaling... [...] Read more
Do Gender And Major Affect Preparatory Year Students' Performance On English Tests Across Proficiency Levels?
Abstract: This study investigates the influence of gender and academic major on student performance in two English language assessments—the English Placement Test (EPT), administered by the National Center for Assessment (NCA), and the Preparatory Year Program Tests (PYPT), conducted in-house at a Saudi university. The primary aim was to examine whether these demographic variables significantly affect English language proficiency during the Preparatory... [...] Read more
The Invisible Bridge: How Foreign Tourism Professionals Foster Bridging Social Capital in Japan
Abstract: This study investigates the role of foreign tourism professionals in Japan as key agents of bridging social capital within the tourism industry. These individuals serve as cultural mediators, interpreting Japanese traditions, social norms, and practices for international audiences while facilitating connections between local communities and global visitors. The research adopts a participatory observation approach, in which the author... [...] Read more
Integrating Intercultural Communication and Religious Tourism: A Phenomenology Study of Cultural Worship at Loang Baloq Tomb, Indonesia
Abstract: This study explores the lived experiences of religious tourism and intercultural communication at the Loang Baloq Tomb in West Lombok, Indonesia—a sacred site where spiritual pilgrimage and local cultural practices converge. Using a phenomenological approach, the research investigates how visitors, caretakers, and community members interact, perform rituals, and make meaning within a shared sacred environment. Drawing on interviews with 25... [...] Read more
Positioning of “Self” and “Other” in the Intercultural Art Communication: a Case Study on Chinese Reverse Glass Painting
Abstract: The distinction between the Self and the Other is a foundational concept across disciplines such as sociology, philosophy, cultural studies, anthropology, and psychology. This study examines the dynamic processes by which individuals position the Self and the Other in intercultural communication, with particular focus on how people interpret artistic works from unfamiliar cultures through processes of categorization and identity assignment.... [...] Read more
The Strategic Role of Artificial Intelligence in Overcoming Intercultural Barriers for SME Internationalization: A Systematic Literature Review
Abstract: In the era of digital globalization, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly challenged by intercultural communication barriers as they expand into international markets. Simultaneously, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) offer unprecedented opportunities to overcome such barriers by enhancing linguistic, cultural, and behavioral adaptation. This systematic literature review integrates findings from 131 studies at... [...] Read more
Diversity Contact: The Relationship of Positive and Negative Intergroup Contact with Assimilation and Multiculturalism
Abstract: The present study investigates how positive and negative intergroup contact experiences relate to attitudes toward multiculturalism and assimilation, and examines whether these relationships are mediated by intergroup anxiety, intergroup threat, and pro-diversity beliefs. A secondary analysis was conducted using cross-sectional survey data from a sample of German university students. Structural equation modeling was applied to test the... [...] Read more
Linguistic And Sociocultural Adaptability In The Emergency And Rescue Field
Abstract: This study investigates Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in Kuwait, with a particular focus on the cultural awareness and communication adaptability of paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). EMS professionals routinely engage with patients from diverse sociocultural, linguistic, and religious backgrounds, complexities that are further heightened by the urgent, high-pressure nature of emergency care. Given Kuwait’s unique... [...] Read more
Embracing Diversity in Multi-Racial Classrooms through Pedagogical Strategies
Abstract: Creating inclusive and supportive learning environments has become critical concern in today’s diverse educational environment. In response, this study has examined the complexities of multi-racial classrooms. It focused on identifying key challenges and proposing actionable pedagogical interventions for educators. The study was grounded in Critical Race Theory which provides valuable lens for understanding and addressing challenges posed by... [...] Read more
Analysis of Intercultural Bilingual Education In Indigenous Communities: A Case Study In Regular Basic Education
Abstract: Intercultural Bilingual Education (IBE) seeks to provide an educational experience that respects and values the cultural and linguistic diversity of indigenous peoples. This study aimed to analyze the implementation of IBE across initial, primary, and secondary education levels in indigenous communities of the Amazon region. A qualitative methodology was employed, involving interviews with teachers at all three educational levels,... [...] Read more
Cross-Cultural Competence in Health Care: Development and Evaluation of a Multiprofessional Training
Abstract: Culturally and linguistically diverse patients face an increased risk of developing mental health disorders due to pre- and post-migration stress and are more likely to experience unequal medical treatment and higher rates of misdiagnosis, contributing to a persistent treatment gap. Cultural competence training has been shown to improve the quality of care for these patient populations. This study aimed to develop and implement a... [...] Read more
Studying English Among Economics Students in the Context of Global Cross-Cultural Communication
Abstract: The primary objective of any Business English course is to equip learners with the communicative competence required for professional environments. Accordingly, this study aimed to design and evaluate a technology-enhanced educational intervention to improve Business English proficiency among undergraduate economics students. Employing an action research methodology, the study was supported by post-tests, student surveys, and descriptive... [...] Read more