Abstract: In recent times, the advancement of technology and globalization has significantly impacted educational practices worldwide, making teaching and learning increasingly complex and interconnected. In the field of English Language Teaching (ELT), these changes have challenged traditional approaches and necessitated the integration of more culturally diverse materials to reflect the global usage of English. Against this backdrop, this study aims... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study, grounded in a mixed-methods framework, examines the hindrances affecting the speaking skills of low-proficiency ESL undergraduates at a public university, with a specific focus on the perceived role of language anxiety. The study collected quantitative data by using a well-structured questionnaire, whereas qualitative insights were captured through semi-structured interviews to examine learners’ reported classroom experiences.... [...] Read more

Abstract: The study sought to elicit the perceptions of teachers and subject advisors towards the use of Khelobedu, which is a dialect, as a medium of instruction. This study followed a qualitative approach, through which data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 8 Foundation Phase teachers and 2 subject advisors in Mopani District. The study revealed that teachers and subject advisors are of the view that Khelobedu would benefit the... [...] Read more

Abstract: Financial incentives play a crucial role in the bilingual intercultural education of university students; therefore, this study aims to analyze the impact that Beca 18 has on bilingual university students from an intercultural approach. The study uses a qualitative approach, employing the interview technique, conducted with students from the Toribio Rodríguez de Mendoza National University of Amazonas and the Fabiola Salazar Leguía National... [...] Read more

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to understand students' successful experiences in intercultural communication, this study systematically reviewed the challenges Chinese students face in intercultural communication, the strategies used to address these challenges—including coping strategies and interventions—and the impact and outcomes of their implementation. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study aims to examine the intercultural sensitivity (IS) of in-service teachers in Greece by providing a nationwide profile across the five dimensions of the Intercultural Sensitivity Scale (ISS). Addressing a gap in previous Greek research, which has largely focused on pre-service teachers, specific specializations, or geographically limited samples, the study investigates whether Greek teachers’ intercultural sensitivity is balanced... [...] Read more

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

Abstract: The practice of telecollaboration has gained traction since the early 2000s as a means of facilitating intercultural communication across distant locations. However, its potential to enhance learning motivation and the acquisition of intercultural mediation competence remains underexplored. This study investigated the motivational components influenced by telecollaboration and examined the potential of lingua franca telecollaboration to... [...] Read more

Abstract: The present study evaluated faculty and student perceptions of the challenges and benefits of intercultural and multicultural education in EFL college classrooms. Using the descriptive approach through survey, the study further investigates the benefits and barriers to inter/multicultural education in Egypt and Saudi Arabia, including content integration, acculturation pedagogy, and the incorporation of cultural knowledge in English as a... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study aims to investigate lecturers' understanding of blended learning and skills in using several platforms for blended learning-based lectures, the effectiveness of the training on blended learning to improve lecturers’ competence, and the impact of the blended-learning lectures on their students’ learning outcomes. A quantitative approach was implemented in this research.  The participants involved 30 lecturers and 67 students of... [...] Read more

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to analyze the experience of international graduate Chinese students in the U.S. The methodology included a focus group (n=8) and personal interviews (n=8) conducted at a southeastern university. This study revealed how international Chinese students dealt with differences in expectations for the classroom environment, excellence in schoolwork, and nonverbal norms during their time studying in the U.S. Gender... [...] Read more

Abstract: Gaming, in conjunction with innovative education, is gaining traction as a means of motivating and involving learners in their intercultural learning process. Vast research supports the relationship between learning games and increased motivation and connection. Learning games are a promising technique for aiding the acquisition of a language. This study was planned as a descriptive qualitative study, with data collected through brief... [...] Read more

Abstract: In general terms, globalization has greatly contributed to a wider diffusion of languages, religions, and traditions, as well as a better understanding of the multicultural nature of countries around the world. It also highlights the importance of cultural diversity in the integration processes within contemporary societies. Motivated by this reflection and to analyze the importance of nonverbal communication in communicative interaction and... [...] Read more

Abstract: Prior research has shown that academic reading poses a significant challenge for university students. One of the primary explanations is the lack of a positive reading culture among university students. Several studies have demonstrated the positive and negative effects of various factors on reading cultures. Notably, some studies indicate that university students do not read books regularly, and their cultural surroundings discourage them... [...] Read more

Abstract: Developing intercultural communicative competence among Chinese university students is essential in the era of globalization; however, disparities persist between ranked universities and general universities. While RUs benefit from extensive internationalization resources, general universities often lack structured intercultural communication instruction and opportunities due to resource disparities, prestige, or geographic constraints, and... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study aims to develop a heutogogy learning model which determines indigenous resources to improve numeracy literacy for high school educator to prepare their educator against disruptive education. This type of research is development research by using the ADDIE method according to two stages, namely (a) exploratory research to identify educator characteristics and needs, and (b) development research to develop a heutogogy model based on... [...] Read more

Abstract: This research aims to determine whether or not it is possible to use artificial intelligence (AI) in English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) courses and review previous research pertinent to artificial intelligence in EFL/ESL instruction to present a comprehensive picture of the current degree of artificial intelligence in EFL/ESL instruction. Utilization of intelligent teaching systems, self-regulated learning, virtual reality,... [...] Read more

Abstract: The focus of this research is to explore more deeply the values contained in Ume Kbubu as a cultural heritage that can be applied to school learning. The method used in this research is a qualitative method with an ethnographic approach to describe the values contained in the Ume Kbubu house. Data collection was carried out by conducting a literature study to find sources related to the history of Ume Kbubu; direct observation at the... [...] Read more

Abstract: This research explores the intercultural competence of Mexican pre-service English language teachers, focusing on the dimensions of attitude, knowledge, skills of interpreting and relating, skills of discovery and interaction, and critical cultural awareness. Using a comprehensive model of intercultural competence as a theoretical framework, the study adapted a self-report questionnaire to assess these dimensions within a non-multicultural... [...] Read more

Abstract: This paper looks at the Korean language classroom as a cultural hybrid of Korean and perceived American culture. It is based around the idea of the language classroom as a subculture. Through discussions of classroom geography, Confucianism, and identity construction, the paper concludes that this hybrid subculture offers an opportunity to explore new cultural identities within a subculture without having to join subcultural groups in normal... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study aimed to obtain data from previous studies on the relevance culture of Islamic economic principles and democracy and welfare based on the Pancasila ideology. Our data search was conducted electronically on many international and national publications between 2010 and 2021. Furthermore, our data has been analyzed involving several techniques such as data analysis, interpretation, in-depth analysis of critical evaluation, and drawing... [...] Read more

Abstract: Higher vocational English education places significant emphasis on intercultural understanding. However, there is a notable lack of research on the reliability and validity of blended intercultural awareness teaching methodologies in higher vocational English reading education in Henan, China. This project addresses this gap by building an Intercultural Awareness Experiential Teaching (IAET) model. A pilot study conducted in a higher... [...] Read more

Abstract: This article explores the experiences of Chinese postgraduate students in a UK university using the lens of rhythmanalysis. This study goes beyond intercultural interactional moments and examines how intercultural experience is organised through temporal, spatial, and emotional rhythms. The data were generated through narrative interviews with four students, and narrative rhythmanalysis was employed for analysis. Findings show that students’... [...] Read more

Abstract: This investigation identifies contextual characteristics associated with meaningful intercultural interactions between domestic students enrolled in a 13-week intercultural communication course and international students. After participating in an international student welcome and games event and three cultural encounters, domestic students completed post-activity reflection surveys that included a quality intercultural interaction scale and... [...] Read more

Abstract: National security culture has emerged as an important factor shaping state behavior in contemporary international relations. In the current geopolitical environment, culture increasingly functions as a dimension of warfare and of national security, including information security. Drawing on a qualitative scoping review and grounded-theory-informed coding within a constructivist framework, this article examines the role of culture in the... [...] Read more

Abstract: Exploring the communicative behavior of teachers and students in the Japanese language classroom in Singapore is one important way of looking at intercultural communication between Japanese and Singaporeans. Ease in effective communication is often hindered by differences in expectations resulting in communication gaps. In this study, attempts were made to explore the differences in perceptions held by students and Japanese teachers of (i) a... [...] Read more

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

Abstract: This study is an attempt to provide an alternative insight into the nature of foreign language anxiety (FLA) from a cross-cultural perspective. The participants were 122 Arab and 107 Iranian second/foreign language students. The present study used a mixed methods design, i.e. questionnaire and interview, to gain a richer understanding of the participants’ FLA. It was found that in addition to experiencing anxiety due to pressures related to... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study explores the perceptions of teacher educators at a public higher education institution in Alicante, Spain, regarding the implementation of gender mainstreaming (GM) in university teaching. Addressing a historically under-researched area, the research examines the impact of GM policies on teacher education programs and identifies barriers to the effective integration of a gender-responsive approach. Using qualitative methods,... [...] Read more

Abstract: The present study aims to develop an intercultural competence (IC) instrument for Chinese students of Spanish as a Foreign Language (SFL). In order to do so, we took steps to modify the statements and confirm the validity of the IC instrument. The new instrument was validated by using exploratory factor analysis through a self-report methodology. The results showed that the instrument possessed adequate validity and reliability. The 28-item... [...] Read more

Abstract: The study of postcolonial literature and culture corresponds with recent developments in the didactics of foreign language teaching at the advanced secondary school level and, for that matter, at the university level as well. This article aims to highlight three significant interfaces connecting postcolonial and didactic discourse. Firstly, the challenge posed by the "center" to the "periphery" implies a radical change in perspective and... [...] Read more

Abstract: The paper presents a purely pedagogical application of Amin Maalouf's "identity check-up" as a tool which has proved to be useful in cultural mixed classes as a basis for self-analysis and discussion, and as a means of preventing the development of stereotypes and prejudices. Revised version of a paper given at the conference  Changing Identities in a globalized world . 29th November – 1st December, 2007- Faculty of... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study aims to explore cultural differences between Thais and Spaniards in the classroom setting to identify problems caused by cultural differences and propose guidelines for coping with those issues. We interviewed forty Thai university students majoring in Spanish and ten Spanish teachers working in Thai universities about their expectations and experiences with regards to teachers’ and students’ behaviors and interactions in the... [...] Read more

Abstract: The global technological transformation has greatly changed and improved almost every part of our life. Notably, today, social media influences us even for the basic necessities of life, such as education. By keeping the importance of social media in education, this research also focuses on the effects of YouTube culture in improving students' academic performance in Jordan. The researchers used Structural Equation Modeling (SEM)as the study... [...] Read more

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

Abstract: Over the past 40 years, China has become progressively more open and integrated into globalization, including foreign-made movies and TV shows. The influence of American popular culture extends to English majors, who are among the most likely to be shaped by Hollywood’s ‘soft power.’ This research examines how their attitudes and behaviors are influenced by these depictions of American culture and values, and how this shapes their future... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study investigates the challenges associated with implementing the Israeli Ministry of Education’s policy to integrate Arab female teachers into Hebrew-speaking schools, guided by Social Identity Theory and Realistic Conflict Theory. Employing a qualitative-phenomenological approach, the research is based on semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 23 teachers (14 Jewish and 9 Arab) working across various levels of the Hebrew education... [...] Read more

Abstract: Focus of this article is communicative challenges in multinational project work as well as how such challenges can be managed. By analyzing their communication in so called reflective dialogues and email correspondence the discussion sheds light upon how the participants of one such project talk about the meaning and pedagogical fruitfulness of horizontal classroom dialogue, and the degree to which they themselves actually communicate in a... [...] Read more

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

Abstract: We present a method to promote intercultural dialogue in the classroom. It builds on a carefully designed hypertext consisting of film fragments, linked together by one situation. While the fragments present identical situations, the protagonists in the films act differently depending on their value orientations. By presenting the students with fragments only, we trigger their imagination; they use their own cultural backgrounds to fill the... [...] Read more

Abstract: In this study, I examine a dialogical approach to intercultural communication instruction.  First, I explain an intercultural communication instruction philosophy grounded in the work of critical pedagogues, the dialogical concepts of Jurgen Habermas and Martin Buber, and a performance studies  praxis based on the Living Newspaper Theatre.  Then, I illustrate my experience using this type of performance as a tool for... [...] Read more

Abstract: The objective of this research is to explore the impact of social media networks on the daily experiences of Arab-Bedouin adolescents. The study is based on semi-structured interviews with of 30 male youths from unrecognized villages in 2023. The outcomes highlight the significance of social media networks as an indispensable communication tool for males within a traditional societal structure, particularly for establishing connections with... [...] Read more

Abstract: The current study focuses on the effects of English language instruction using Education 4.0 in Telangana's engineering institutions. Telangana has many educational facilities that offer Education 4.0, or technology-based learning. It fosters creativity in education. At the fundamental level, students can learn by being provided with a self-learning opportunity. The majority of the subjects were learned through Education 4.0. As a result,... [...] Read more

Abstract: This article explores intercultural contact as a pathway for the development of intercultural communicative competence (ICC) among EFL undergraduates in China during the post-pandemic era. Adopting an exploratory qualitative design with self-reports and focus group interviews as instruments, the challenges faced by EFL undergraduates in intercultural communication and intercultural contact pathways for ICC development were elicited with... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study aims to the identification of cultural values contained in the Mbaru Niang traditional house as a guide in the life of the Wae Rebo community, which can be applied to learning. The methods of this research are qualitative, using an ethnographic approach, which can be applied in learning so that an in-depth description and analysis of cultural values is obtained. Data collection by interview guidelines, observation, and... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study investigates Jordanian EFL teachers' perspectives on the impact of Interactive Whiteboard (IWB) technology on word identification enhancement. Drawing on the theory of Multimedia Learning, the research aims to address a gap in the literature regarding EFL educators' perceptions of using IWBs to improve word identification skills. A cross-sectional survey was administered to 124 Jordanian EFL teachers, and data were analyzed using... [...] Read more

Abstract: This research aims to classify the interpersonal meaning in Joe Biden’s victory speech. It is an interesting phenomenon because by revealing the interpersonal meaning, people can be assisted to be successful in communication. The researchers used a qualitative research design to answer the research question and chose content analysis since the results of data analysis were in descriptive phenomena, such as words, clauses, and utterances. The... [...] Read more

Abstract: Recently, there has been a phenomenon of reclaiming cultures other than those of the target language in English language teaching (ELT). This qualitative research explores intercultural topics in Indonesian ELT classrooms that are shown along with the target and global cultures. The research involves four English teachers from two Indonesian universities who have intercultural experience studying in universities overseas. Data were collected... [...] Read more

Abstract: A large number of international students consider pursuing a career in Norway after completing their studies in the country. This study investigated the significance of learning Norwegian for international business school students’ career competencies in relation to working in Norway. A qualitative approach was employed, using semi-structured individual interviews and thematic analysis. The sample comprised 15 first-year international... [...] Read more

Abstract: Classrooms, where power, class, and/or cultural differentiations exist among children and their teachers, offer a rewarding setting for intercultural communication research. This case study (1) investigates how teachers in an urban elementary school, use “positive communication” to bring about hope amidst chaos in both the classroom literally and in the lives of inner city children fundamentally and (2) explores the impact of the selected... [...] Read more

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to bring about the role a contrastive approach called Cross-Cultural Discourse Analysis can play in the design and the implementation of intercultural education activities in the language classroom. The author briefly describes the methodology of Cross-Cultural Discourse Analysis in research and connects this methodology with intercultural education. She further explains how to proceed in a language and... [...] Read more

Abstract: Reflexivity, the critical self-examination of one’s role in the research process, has become increasingly central as researchers navigate positionality, power, and methodological bias when working across diverse sociocultural and linguistic contexts. Yet, intercultural research often overlooks the affective, relational, and embodied dimensions of collaboration that shape how knowledge is produced. This paper examines how transnational,... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study examines the negotiation of cultural values in Lombok Islamic boarding schools through an intercultural perspective. Its main focus is to analyze how pesantren become an intercultural space for negotiating cultural diversity amid modernization, using Bourdieu's theory. A qualitative approach with critical ethnographic methods was used. Data were collected from 36 participants, in-depth interviews with key informants, and document... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study focuses on the employment of AI technology in regular, day-to-day activities, such as when Google Translate or Bing Translator are encouraged alongside various programs and applications. It also evaluates and empirically demonstrates the subjects of writing with AI technologies, computer-assisted language learning (CALL), machine translation (MT), and automatic evaluation systems (AESs) in order to offer solutions for enhanced... [...] Read more

Abstract: This SLR was conducted in the field of digital communication in the specific context of intercultural communication. The main purpose of this SLR was to assess studies on psychological outcomes, anxiety, self-efficacy, and social media fatigue (SMF) among digital natives and digital immigrants who use social media and experience social media overload (SMO). Unlike meta-analyses, which statistically combine effect sizes, the present study was... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study investigates the implementation of cross-cultural communication through the Green ASEAN Culture Festival at Universitas Padjadjaran, positioning it as a strategic pedagogical tool for fostering intercultural competence in higher education. Employing a qualitative case study design, the research integrates data from 15 semi-structured interviews with student organizers and performers representing five academic programs, as well as... [...] Read more

Abstract: This paper emerged from a larger study and analyzes the reflections of a transatlantic group of future language teachers who communicated with each other via the bulletin board and chat functions of  FirstClass ® to design a joint website module. The author employs the Grounded Theory method and engages in  action research  in order to identify and analyze instances displaying cross-cultural engagement. Data triangulation... [...] Read more

Abstract: Non-verbal communication is an important aspect to teach Japanese English language students if they are to communicate effectively in English. The purpose of this research is to determine which aspects of non-verbal communication would be important to teach Japanese university students studying English. Literature regarding Japanese use of non-verbal communication is described and used as a basis to determine aspects of non-verbal which would... [...] Read more

Abstract: Team teaching has become a common practice in English classrooms across Japan, but since its inception, a number of problems have been observed. It is believed that the majority of these issues are due to miscommunication caused by cultural differences between the Japanese (JTs) and native-English teachers (NETs). Unfortunately, few studies have offered solutions on how teachers could improve their intercultural communication competence (ICC)... [...] Read more

Abstract: The paper relates the experience gathered in the area of intercultural awareness raising with respect to methods and approaches used in the classroom and in terms of students’ response. The developments related were an integral part of an EU - Leonardo da Vinci Programme sponsored project in which learning of Business English has been carried out through an integrated skills approach in a series of virtual workshops. Within the CCBC project... [...] Read more

Abstract: Researchers in internationalisation of higher education have been reminding us that the presence of international students alone does not mean that the institution or the students are reaping the benefits of internationalisation. Since the number of international students is readily measurable, many have focused on increasing the number and overlooked other less quantifiable aspects, such as intercultural interaction, which is beneficial to... [...] Read more

Abstract: At a time when inquiry-based science education is finding increased acceptance, US classrooms are exhibiting a significant increase in diversity. This necessitates attention to the compatibility between the culture of inquiry teaching and the broad range of cultures that form students’ backgrounds. Although some research has considered students’ cultural backgrounds and the roles these might play in the effectiveness of an inquiry approach,... [...] Read more

Abstract: South Africa is a multicultural country; however, the politics of the past have resulted in teachers from diverse cultures being ignorant of the mores of others with whom they interact. Teachers thus risk transferring preconceived knowledge and attitudes into the classroom. The aim of this study was to explore to what extent the methodology of Reel Life can promote the development of intercultural competence among South African teachers.... [...] Read more

Abstract: Amid the resurgence of exclusionary nationalism and intercultural tensions, understanding how linguistic diversity shapes social attitudes has become increasingly vital. This study investigates how multilingual experience influences nationalism-related affective orientations among Chinese participants, focusing on the ways in which multilingual exposure interacts with mental aggression and intercultural communicative attitudes to shape... [...] Read more

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

Abstract: The current study aims to identify students’ level of involvement in the Arabic language textbook content provided in cycle one within the United Arab Emirates by addressing two questions: (i) What is the student's level of involvement in the scientific materials contained in Arabic language textbooks for cycle one within the United Arab Emirates? (ii) What is the student's level of involvement in the language activities contained in Arabic... [...] Read more

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

Abstract: The integration of multimedia learning principles into institutional e-learning environments has become increasingly relevant in professional training contexts. However, limited attention has been given to how these principles are operationalized in law enforcement education. This study examines the application of established multimedia learning principles in the digital training modules of the Dubai Police Smart Training Center. A content... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study intended to propose a model of intercultural communicative competence integrating international posture, L2 motivational self-system, autonomy, and cognitive learning strategies. To do so, 180 EFL learners in the Iranian EFL context, selected by convenience sampling procedure, participated in the study. The findings, derived from structural equation modeling, showed that the model adequately fits to the data. That was discussed... [...] Read more

Abstract: The development of Intercultural Communicative Competence (ICC) has become a central component of successful second language (L2) use and social participation for all L2 learners. This is especially relevant for minoritized groups and forced migrants (i.e., refugees), as the social spaces they navigate produce challenges that traditional L2 learners may not face, and the stakes for their ability to effectively communicate are extremely high,... [...] Read more

Abstract: This research focuses on social media use by Asian international students in the U.S. and its impacts on their subjective well-being, social support, and cultural adjustment. In-depth interviews were conducted with 17 international students from six Asian countries who are studying in a Midwestern University in the U.S. The research finds that social media helps to compensate Asian international students for the loss of social support and... [...] Read more

Abstract: This study advances a re-conceptualization of intercultural competence as an emergent, relational practice constituted within dynamic networks of interaction. Employing a conceptual methodology informed by Actor-Network Theory (ANT), it proposes a perspective that considers both human and non-human actors/actants, including technological artifacts, semiotic and linguistic resources, institutional structures, and spatial-material... [...] Read more

Abstract: Traditional theories of intercultural communication often overlook the multiplicity of interpretations and the influence of power, materiality, and institutional structures on everyday interactions. In high-stakes environments such as asylum reception, communication is shaped by broader political, economic, and social systems that structure both professional practices and interpersonal relations. This study examines how intercultural... [...] Read more

Abstract: Growing migration to Poland over the past decade has heightened the need for social service professionals to work effectively with culturally diverse populations. Although intercultural competence has been widely theorised in Western contexts, its application within Central and Eastern European institutional settings remains underexplored. This study seeks to examine how intercultural competence is understood and enacted by Polish social... [...] Read more