Arab Culture Research Articles

Progress on Progress Test: International vs Local Experience

The paper discusses the implementation and evolution of progress testing as an assessment technique in Problem-Based Learning (PBL) at the College of Medicine, King Faisal University (KFU), in collaboration with the University of Groningen (UoG), Netherlands. Despite the successful introduction of a local progress test, the paper notes the reluctance of students in Arab culture to embrace this method due to concerns about its impact on their Grading Point Average (GPA). The research outlines a five-year experience with international high-stakes progress testing based on European universities and describes the establishment of a local progress test system. A cross-sectional study design was employed to analyze the passing rates of medical students from their first to fifth year, using data from 2018 to 2020. The study population included 1450 students with a gender distribution of 50/50. The results highlight two main achievements of the local progress test system. Firstly, the development of a blueprint based on block teaching contents and curriculum learning outcomes from year 1 to 5. This blueprint served as a foundation for the assessment. Secondly, the establishment of an individual performance feedback system, facilitated by a confidential online platform using students' academic numbers. In conclusion, the research suggests that progress testing can be successfully integrated into Arab culture, serving as a comprehensive assessment tool. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing progress testing as a key knowledge assessment method in the curriculum. The paper provides insights into the process, compares international and local experiences, and offers recommendations for further improvement of the local progress testing system.

Peculiarities of the Lexis of Domestic Conflict Discourse in Arabian Countries on the Example of English Literary Texts

The aim of the study is identification of the specifics of the Arab domestic conflict discourse in the context of English literary texts. In this work, the following methods were applied: the method of discourse analysis, the descriptive method. At the first stage of this work, the history of the formation of the concept of "discourse" was studied. Then we explored the pecularities of conflict discourse and its types. The next step was to identify the main causes of conflict situations. At the final stage of the study, the pecularities of domestic conflict discourse in the Arabic linguistic culture were analyzed on the example of Jean Sasson's English-language novel "Princess". The results of this study can be used as part of training courses in such disciplines as intercultural communication, sociolinguistics, linguoculturology, and a practical course in English. The study may be of interest to specialists in the field of translation studies, cultural studies, sociology, and psychology.

Rethinking Islamic Feminist Thought on Reinterpreting the Qur'an: An Analysis of the Thoughts of Aminah Wadud, Fatima Mernissi, Asma Barlas, and Riffat Hassan

This article aims to revisit Islamic feminist thought on the reinterpretation of the Qur'an by analyzing the views of four major figures in the movement: Aminah Wadud, Fatima Mernissi, Asma Barlas, and Riffat Hassan. This study uses a critical text analysis approach to understand the arguments and interpretations they put forward in interpreting Qur'anic verses related to gender. Through an in-depth analysis of their work in articles, books, and papers of their views. In addition, the article explores the ways in which these Islamic feminists reconstruct an understanding of sacred texts, highlighting differences in approach and common themes in their interpretations. In addition, it evaluates the impact of their reinterpretations of the Qur'an on traditional views in Muslim societies and their implications in the context of social change and gender equality. When examining Islamic feminist views on the Qur'anic reinterpretation, it is important to thoroughly understand the cultural and linguistic context of Arabic. Misconceptions regarding the interpretations of classical Muslim intellectuals, which are often considered discriminatory against women, are often due to a lack of understanding of the cultural and linguistic context of Arabic. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to linguistic and cultural contexts when interpreting sacred texts. On the other hand, feminists should also note that interpretations of the Qur'an do not always result in interpretations that are in line with their principles of gender equality. The theoretical implication is that, in an effort to understand the verses of the Qur'an related to gender issues, it is important to consider the cultural context, language, and comprehensive interpretation. There is room for dialog and deeper understanding between feminist views and traditional interpretations, by taking an approach that combines an understanding of classical Arabic culture with the values of gender equality championed by feminists.

Eating disorders and related psychological features among Arabs and Jews in Israel: Does culture play a moderating role?

Eating disorders (EDs) have been documented in various cultural settings. A continuous increase in ED' rates among non-Western cultures (e.g., Arab cultures and East-Asian cultures) has been reported. We aimed to investigate the relations among culture, ED symptoms, and psychological features that are highly relevant in EDs through a cultural comparison of three groups. The groups included female university students in Israel with varying levels of exposure to Westernization: 118 Jewish students, 132 Arab students studying at a mixed university with a Jewish majority, and 111 Arab students studying at Sakhnin College, a college for Arab students only. The groups differed significantly on the Conservation Value dimension from the Short Portrait Values Questionnaire. Four psychological features were examined as predictors of ED symptoms: Interoceptive-deficits, Ineffectiveness, Asceticism, and Maturity-fear. The results revealed a comparable prevalence of self-reported ED symptoms among Arabs and Jews, with a small exception for bulimic symptoms, which were less prevalent among those in the Sakhnin group, who also scored lower on Ineffectiveness and higher on asceticism than the other groups. Testing the relations between the four psychological features and ED symptoms revealed that culture played a moderating role in predicting the strength of ineffectiveness and maturity-fear. Ineffectiveness was not a predictor among the Sakhnin group, whereas maturity-fear was not a predictor in the least conservative Jewish group. Asceticism and interoceptive-deficits predicted ED symptoms across all study groups. Our findings indicate that the problem of EDs may be similar among Arab and Jewish women in Israel. Moreover, despite some similarities in the relevance of some ED-related psychological features, other features are moderated by culture.

A Psychometric Study of the Student Evidence-Based Practice Scale S-EBPQ-Arabic Version for Use among Undergraduate Nursing Students.

Previous studies have demonstrated the significance of evidence-based practice in improving patient care and outcomes. Therefore, integrating evidence-based practice into the health professions' education curriculum has become a pedagogical priority. However, there is a lack of reliable and valid scales to measure students' evidence-based practice usage, attitudes, knowledge, and skills in Arab countries. This study aims to examine the adapted Student Evidence-Based Practice Scale Questionnaire (S-EBPQ) validity at logical statistical level and reliability for use among students in Arabic context. This cross-sectional study included 233 undergraduate nursing students from a university in Saudi Arabia, who were recruited after translating and pilot testing the S-EBPQ. Three distinctive types of validity including conceptual, content, and face validity were assessed to determine the quality of the questionnaire items logically. Exploratory factor analyses were performed to examine the tool's structural validity. Additionally, internal consistency was assessed to evaluate reliability. Findings. All items were considered relevant to Arab culture, and no changes were made to any items. The content validity indices for all items were above 0.80 as this was considered an acceptable value. The exploratory factor analysis identified the same four factors (practice, attitude, retrieving and reviewing evidence, and sharing and applying evidence-based practice). All KMO values for the individual items ≥0.876 were also well above the acceptable 0.6 limit. The four-factor structure explained a total variance of 64%, with factor load score λ ≥ 0.455. The total and subscale S-EBPQ scores showed evidence of reliability, with Cronbach's alpha ≥0.8. This study demonstrated the reliability and validity of the Arabic S-EBPQ version. The study has the potential to advance Arab countries' understanding of evidence-based practice. S-EBPQ is a validated tool that can be used to assess nursing students' knowledge of EBP practices. Since educators need to continually evaluate instructional and curricular design in order to meet contemporary nursing needs, this scale can enhance the educational process and enhance students' competencies.

The Arab strategy for distance education: a review of the ALECSO 2005 proposal and its current implications

ABSTRACT The global knowledge, technological, and communication revolutions underway today have affected education systems in the Arab world and prompted these countries to reconsider strategies and policies related to distance learning. The responses from Arab educational institutions after the outbreak of COVID-19 have also created the need to re-evaluate the content and significance of the Arab Distance Learning Strategy issued by the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO) in 2005. The current study reviews and analyses this strategy in terms of its objectives, content, and its relevance today in these Arab countries. The analysis shows that despite the importance of such a strategy, the original document merely offers guidance, presented as a proposal to persuade decision-makers at the national level to adopt distance education in parallel with face-to-face education. Both the strategy and the plan of execution detailed in the document focus on theoretical issues related to distance education and do not include specific mechanisms that could measure the goals put forth. However, the proposal remains relevant today, and, considering the ongoing response to COVID-19, educational systems and institutions in Arab countries should consider this strategic guidance as they continue to build national policies for distance learning.

Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Arabic Version of the Prolapse Quality of Life Questionnaire in the United Arab Emirates.

Given the extensive translation of the Prolapse Quality of Life Questionnaire (P-QoL) into many languages, it is imperative to develop an Arabic version to facilitate the study of pelvic organ health within the Arabian culture. The aim of this study was to investigate, cross-culturally adapt, and validate the Arabic version of the P-QoL. This study involved cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric testing. A total of 90 participants were included in the study. This cross-sectional study was carried out in two phases; during phase I, the P-QoL was translated and adapted from English into Arabic. The Arabic version was psychometrically validated during phase II using the test-retest reliability and internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha coefficient, convergent construct (CC) validity among the four study tools using Spearman's coefficient (r), and discriminative validity using Mann-Whitney test to find the differences between the means of the two samples. A satisfactory level of semantic, conceptual, idiomatic, and content comparability was reached in the cross-cultural adaptation of the Arabic version of the P-QoL. The internal consistency was high in terms of psychometric validation, with a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.971 for the P-QoL. The test-retest results showed high reliability, with the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of the P-QoL determined as 0.987. The convergent construct validity was highly acceptable (moderately strong), reflecting a positive correlation between the Arabic version of the P-QoL and the Australian Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Questionnaire (APFD) (r = 0.68; p < 0.001). Similarly, a significant convergent validity of the Arabic version of the P-QoL and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) (r = 0.47; p < 0.001) was observed, as well as a correlation between the APFD and the VAS (r = 0.46; p < 0.001). However, there was no significant correlation between the 12-Item Short-Form Survey (SF-12), the P-QoL, the APFD, and the VAS. Based on the significant correlation found between the Arabic APFD and the VAS, the results reveal good reliability, internal consistency, and construct validity. It is recommended that Arabic-speaking females with pelvic organ prolapse use the Arabic version of the P-QoL. More research is needed to assess the responsiveness of the P-QoL.

Wpływ religii i kultury na przestrzegania obostrzeń COVID-19 na przykładzie Malezji

Aim: The purpose of this article is to analyze the impact of religion, religious leaders, and cultural differences (individualism and collectivism in power distance relationships) on compliance with COVID-19 restrictions, using Malaysia as an example. Culture and religion play key roles in identifying disease adherence, helping to find behaviors and relationships, and determining society's willingness to apply measures to counter the spread of the pandemic. Therefore, cultural beliefs, faith and values can contribute to the success or failure of global efforts to curb the spread of epidemics. Identifying and incorporating cultural parameters and religions may be essential for developing an effective strategy to control pandemics and "shuttle down countries" by implementing restrictions. Methods: In this article, based on a retrospective of events in the selected country of Malaysia, the problem posed will be solved. Based on Hofstede's research, empirically universal cultural dimensions for the analyzed country were extracted (dimensions of national cultures: collectivism - individualism, and power distance). The choice of the country was deliberate and follows the cultural model, because Malaysia, as a country with a high rate of power distance, has a low rate of individualism. In countries characterized by high-power distance, the importance of hierarchy, the pursuit of centralization, among other things, are emphasized. In countries with a high distance from power, there is a significant relationship between society and power. The research conducted used data from Oxford University's "Covid-19 Government Response Tracker" project, in which the author participated. "Covid-19 Government Response Tracker" contains a set of cross-country measures of government response to a pandemic around the world. Using Malaysia as an example, it shows the level of implementation of government restrictions that affected religious gatherings and mass gatherings in correlation to the number of infections per 100,000 people. Results: Based on the analysis carried out in connection (superimposition) of cultural models on the analyzed problem of human behavior, it was possible to show that in countries with a collectivist nature and a high distance from the authorities, with respect for the role of religious leaders, the voice of each religious leader is heard, and the cooperation that existed in this crucial period made it possible to save many lives through wise and prudent decisions made in religious communities. It was also possible to see the high responsibility of religious conductors who allowed practices in religious rites in a slightly different style (with restrictions, caused by restrictions). The measures outlined helped the Malaysian government in its fight against the pandemic. Coclusion: Religion and cultural beliefs have a strong influence on basic health values. Many groups view health and illness holistically, meaning it is a condition that integrates body and mind. For example, in Arab culture, health can be seen as a gift from God, while illness is caused by bad luck, germs, unrest in the family, and an imbalance between heat and cold. Other cultures, on the other hand, condition health and illness on group membership and its influence on an individual's well-being. The reaction of a person, a citizen (society), to the messages issued by the authorities of the health care system is shaped by cultural differences (cultural dimensions, according to Hofstede), including religious beliefs. It should be noted, no less, that in any culture, the role of the religious leader is important because he can instill views of rationality among the congregation that there is no conflict between the protective measures used (introduced), infectious diseases and religious beliefs. Religious leaders who speak skillfully in public have a great contribution to make in communicating with the faithful. They can influence thinking and shape social values and social responsibility through their preaching. On many occasions, religious leaders have made public pronouncements that set an example and called on followers to set a rational example. Oryginality: A scientific article presenting the results of original research of an empirical, theoretical and analytical nature Keyword: Religion, culture, Malaysia, religious leader, collectivism, power distance, COVID-1

Barriers to seeking tobacco cessation services: a qualitative assessment of university students' needs in Qatar.

The prevalence of tobacco use in the Middle East is alarmingly high, especially among university students; most users initiate tobacco use during adolescence and young adulthood. Evidence-based cessation services can be beneficial when quitting tobacco use; however, these services are underutilized. This study aimed to explore the barriers preventing university students in Qatar from seeking tobacco cessation services. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 Qatar University students who are current or former tobacco users (n = 18/2); most current cigarette smokers were also waterpipe users. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The major barriers to seeking tobacco cessation services included misconceptions regarding nicotine addiction, negative perceptions of the cessation services' effectiveness, self-efficacy regarding the ability to quit without seeking cessation services, concerns and preferences regarding practitioners' characteristics at clinics, masculine culture that discourages men from seeking cessation help, social stigma around women who use tobacco in Arab culture, and a lack of time to visit cessation clinics. Our findings address gaps in the literature regarding the individual and sociocultural barriers to seeking tobacco cessation among youth in Qatar. A better understanding of these barriers can facilitate successful promotion of tobacco cessation services and enhance cessation-seeking behaviors.

The Intercultural Aspect of Teaching Arabic as a Foreign Language in Indonesia

The intercultural aspect is an important component in Arabic language teaching in Indonesia. That is because intercultural understanding is the basis for learners to be able to communicate and interact in Arabic effectively and efficiently. This paper examines the importance of the role of intercultural knowledge and understanding in teaching Arabic as a foreign language for Indonesian learners. The aim of this paper is to form an intercultural understanding of the teaching of Arabic language as an intercultural understanding for Indonesian students. The method used in studying this research is the method of studying literature with a qualitative approach. Data collection is done by managing material from books, journals, research results, and newspapers. The method used in reviewing this research is a literature study. To find out the use of cultural aspects in teaching Arabic, as a foreign language, this study will discuss four al, namely: (1) The Role of Culture in Language (2) Intercultural Competence in Language Learning (3) Language Teacher, Cultural Teacher (4) Intercultural in Arabic Language Culture. The conclusion of this paper is the importance of intercultural understanding in shaping intercultural aspects in the learning of Arabic at the level of Indonesian students. His contribution is that the paper can be used as a basic reference to shape the intercultural aspect and become a fundamental reference in developing the intercultural aspect of the Arabic language in Indonesia especially for students.

CULTURAL CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT BASED ON LOCAL WISDOM THROUGH AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE INFLUENCE OF CULTURAL ACCULTURE IN THE PAST ON PALEMBANG SONGKET MOTIFS

This research is about Palembang local wisdom, focusing on Songket fabric. This research looks at the influence of acculturation of Arabic, Chinese, and Bangka cultures in the past on Palembang Songket motifs, especially seen from social, artistic and cultural factors. Thus, the purpose of the research is to examine how the management of the conservation of Palembang's local wisdom culture through understanding how the influence of acculturation in the past has created several Songket motifs that exist today. The method of data collection in this research is by using questionnaires to 100 selected respondents and semi-structured interviews to several key informants. By using SPSS version 25 to process and analyse the data, it was found that the interaction between people from foreign countries in the past and Palembang people has contributed to the existence of Songket motifs that exist today. Mainly due to social factors, art, and customs, about 50.4% influenced overall. In addition, the study shows that the conservation management of Palembang Songket culture is carried out by applying the conservation function.

The Role Of Arabic Language And Its Impact In Improving Education Among Children

The research dealt with an important topic that is related to humanity in general and children In particular, it is the role of knowing the Arabic language in increasing the linguistic perception of children because they are like a seed. In growing up, their tongues must be straightened in a way that increases their linguistic balance, because of the importance of acquiring wealth Linguistic makes him recognize all literary and non-literary texts, relie in this study onThe effect of stories on linguistic behavior and the importance of children's knowledge of language in simplified and smooth ways Including stories and tales, and stories are considered a means of desire to increase linguistic wealth In addition to the growth of cognitive stimulation and the development of their knowledge of the originality of the Arabic language and literature in a way Special, and add to that also that the child becomes more familiar with the Arab culture and has a queen Artistic taste for intellectual output.

Feasibility Study of the Boston Naming Test for the Arab Population.

Introduction The Boston Naming Test (BNT) is a widely used USneuropsychological evaluation of confrontation naming for the examination of adults and children with learning disabilities and diagnosis of communication disorders, aphasia, dementia, and acquired brain injury or dysfunction. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the practicality of the original English version of the 60-item BNT (BNT-60) on an Arab population and the need for a new adaptive Arabic version sensitive to cultural biases and to offer normative data that can serve as a reference for researchers and clinicians in the Gulf region, especially the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Data relating to the familiarity degree of the BNT-60 were also collected. Methods This research involved 105 randomly selected and cognitively healthy college students who were native Arabic speakers recruited in Jeddah. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) was administered with a cutoff score of 26. The participants were examined for naming accuracy, naming agreement, and familiarity in using theBNT-60. The data were then analyzed and compared with the findings from studies conducted in the United States. Results The BNT-60 was administered to 105 university students from the KSA, and the results were compared with the BNT-60 booklet norms (second edition). Their average performance was noticeably below the norms established by the original test standards. Compared with the participants in the USstudies, the participants made approximately 65% more errors on the items including pretzel, wreath, beaver, harmonica, acorn, stilts, harp, hammock, knocker, pelican, muzzle, unicorn, funnel, accordion, asparagus, tripod, yoke, and trellis and 25% more errors on the items including seahorse, dart, igloo, sphinx, palette, and abacus. The item "boomerang" was not compared with the USsample because of differences in the version of the BNT, but the errors in naming this item were as frequent as those in naming the other misrecognized items. The internal consistency among the items' degrees of familiarity was also very high (α = 0.966), and a significant connection (r = 0.837, P < 0.001) was observed between object familiarity and naming accuracy. The Arabic-speaking population in the KSA and English-speaking population in the United States showed very different levels of familiarity with numerous items. Conclusion The participants' familiarity with the BNT objects varied depending on their culture and impacted their naming accuracy and overall scores on the test. Accordingly, the possibility of cultural biases should be considered when administering the BNT to the population of the KSA and the possibility of making changes so that the test better reflects the Arab culture as suggested.

The Existence of Bangsawan Theatre in Palembang Viewed From the Demographic Aspect

Teater Bangsawan has a long history and is an important part of Palembang's cultural heritage. Its existence reflects the continuity of culture and traditions passed down from generation to generation and becomes a symbol of the cultural identity of the local community. This performance includes various traditional elements such as music, dance, traditional clothing, and Palembang language . The existence of Bangsawan theater also plays an important role in education and learning. This performance is not only entertainment, but also a learning medium that teaches moral values, history, and art skills to the performers and audience. Bangsawan theater became a place to study culture and develop creativity in the realm of performing arts. Palembang as a multicultural city has a strong ethnic influence in the theater of nobility. The performance combines elements of Malay, Chinese, Arab, and Indian cultures, creating a wealth of diverse arts and representing the diversity of Palembang society. The Bangsawan theater is an important forum for the people of Palembang to convey and strengthen Palembang's cultural identity. This performance reflects the values, stories, and traditions cherished by the people of Palembang, thus becoming a means to maintain and bring cultural heritage to life. The demographic development of the population has influenced the existence of the aristocratic theater. Changes in age composition, increased urbanization, and shifts in cultural values have an impact on people's interest and participation in traditional performing arts. With the onset of significant demographic changes, aristocratic theater experienced a decline in popularity due to the younger generation being more interested in modern forms of entertainment.

Analisis Kata Serapan Bahasa Arab Dalam Tindak Tutur Masyarakat Melayu Bengkalis

This study aims to analyse the absorption of Arabic words in the speech acts of the Malay community in Bengkalis. The research method used is qualitative with a descriptive-analytical approach. Data were collected through interviews, and observations and then analysed using content analysis techniques. The results showed that Arabic absorption words have a significant role in the speech acts of the Bengkalis Malay community. The use of these absorption words reflects the influence of Arabic culture in the daily life and communication of the local community. In addition, Arabic absorption words also enrich the vocabulary and linguistic expressions in the daily language of the Bengkalis Malay community. This research provides an in-depth understanding of the dynamics of the use of Arabic words in the language and culture of the Bengkalis Malay community. The implications of these findings can be an important contribution to the study of linguistics, language anthropology, and cultural studies, as well as provide a foundation for the preservation and development of cultural and linguistic heritage in this region.

A Semiotic Analysis of Cultural Differences Between Australian and Emirati E-commerce Websites

This study aimed to investigate cultural differences in the design of e-commerce websites by undertaking a semiotic analysis. The study utilized semiotic analysis methods to examine the relationships among signs, symbols and their meanings on e-commerce websites. Specifically, six popular e-commerce websites from two culturally distinct countries, Australia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), were selected for analysis. The semiotic analysis of the e-commerce websites revealed significant differences in design attributes between the two countries. Specifically, the findings showed that UAE websites emphasize visual elements such as graphics and layout to engage users aesthetically, whereas Australian websites prioritize text-based content to ensure clear and direct communication. This divergence can be attributed to cultural disparities, with Arab culture valuing additional context and Australian culture favouring a more straightforward approach. This implies that different interface designs may be necessary to effectively communicate with and cater to the diverse cultural groups within each country.

Translation and Cross-Cultural Adaptation Process and Pilot Testing of the Arabic Version of the Patient Reported Impact of Spasticity Measure (PRISM-Arabic)

Context: The Patient Reported Impact of Spasticity Measure (PRISM) is a self-reported questionnaire that is used to assess the impact of spasticity on the quality of life of individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). Its inclusion in the assessment process for patients living in a country such as Saudi Arabia, which has one of the highest incidences of SCI around the world, will be an integral addition. Aims: The aims for this study were to translate and cross-culturally adapt the PRISM into Arabic and pilot test the Arabic version on Arabic speakers with SCI in Saudi Arabia. Settings and Design: Translation process was administered according to the recommended guidelines used for cross-cultural adaptation of healthcare measures. Methods and Material: Pilot testing of the PRISM-Arabic was administered to 35 individuals with SCI presenting with spasticity. Participants were interviewed to assess the relevance of the questionnaire to the Arabic language and culture. Face and content validity of the PRISM-Arabic as well as its floor and ceiling effects were assessed. Results: During the translation process, the expert committee made changes in 14 occasions due to cultural equivalence differences. Pilot-testing showed eight items that needed further adaptation. After all were made, the cross-culturally adapted PRISM-Arabic showed adequate face and content validity and did not have flooring and ceiling effects. Conclusions: The PRISM has been successfully translated and cross-culturally adapted into Arabic language. Further assessments of its psychometric properties are recommended. Implications for its use in clinical practice and research were presented.&#x0D; Key-words: Spinal cord injury, Spasticity, Patient Reported Impact of Spasticity Measure, PRISM&#x0D; Key Messages: The PRISM was successfully translated and cross-culturally adapted for Arabic speakers with SCI reporting spasticity. The introduction of such spasticity-specific self-reported outcome measure into clinics in Saudi Arabia is the first of its kind. The PRISM will introduce a new area of research and clinical assessment related to patients with SCI.

Acculturation of Palembang Songket Cloth Culture

This article discusses cultural acculturation related to Palembang songket fabric. The study reveals how Palembang songket cloth experiences cultural acculturation through interaction with various elements of local, regional, and global culture. Through this study, the authors identified various factors that influence acculturation of songket fabric, such as migration, trade, and cultural interaction. The approach used in this study is a qualitative approach. Qualitative approaches are often used in cultural studies to understand and analyze acculturation processes, cultural interactions, and the role of songket cloth in Palembang society. Qualitative research methods involve data collection through observation, interviews, and text analysis, as well as in-depth interpretation to understand complex cultural phenomena. The results of the study are in the context of acculturation; Palembang songket cloth has experienced the influence of Malay, Chinese, Arab, and Indian cultures, which is reflected in the patterns and motifs that exist on songket cloth. In addition, the acculturation of Palembang songket fabric culture also reflects adaptation to global market trends and demands. This article contributes to an understanding of how cultural acculturation can shape and influence a region’s distinctive textile traditions, with a case study of Palembang songket fabric as a relevant example.&#x0D; Keywords: cultural acculturation, Palembang songket cloth, cultural identity

An Analysis of Media Representation of Arab Female Athletes: The Case of Al-Jazeera

The coverage of female athletes in sports media has been claimed to exhibit prejudice in favor of male athletes. Therefore, they promote the dominance of traditional masculine hegemony. Accordingly, the present study examines Al-Jazeera's coverage of Arab female athletes participating in the Rio Olympics. The study, therefore, aims to identify Al-Jazeera's strategies for covering Arab female athletes in selected online stories and their ideological perspectives in terms of "Self" or public and "Other" or private dichotomy. Furthermore, it aims to examine the feminist critical discourse analysis perspective in the gendered social practices of the Eastern world. This study analyses two Al-Jazeera news stories using feminist critical discourse analysis. Feminist critical discourse analysis challenges social practices related to gender stereotypes. Occasionally, gender inequalities are manifested explicitly as well as implicitly. Patriarchy persists in many social institutions and among women (and men) globally. The researchers implement Lazar's (2018) Feminist Critical Discourse Analysis. Thus, sports news ideological methods are analyzed using positive "in-group" and negative "out-group" dichotomy. The current research findings indicate that the patriarchal society has been transformed with respect to women's empowerment. Arab female athletes take place in public life as their male counterparts. However, the analyzed data demonstrated Arab women's gender resistance to the stereotypical gender norms. However, the current research is essential for revealing the progress of gender-based hierarchal social norms. Deconstructing conventional unequal gender roles is a key component of this research project's contribution to developing and promoting gender equality in Arabic culture.

Empirical Analysis for Detecting Arabic Online Suicidal Ideation

Suicidal ideation is a serious social health problem influenced by personal, social, and negative life events. Suicide ideation expressed in social media can provide insights into suicidal attempts. Detecting and tracking people at risk of suicide is a critical task. A massive amount of Arabic content has become available on online social media. Early diagnosis of mental illness, including suicidal thoughts, is challenging, particularly within the Arabic culture, due to stigma and a lack of awareness. Few recent studies have investigated the automatic detection of Arabic suicidal thoughts either because of the lack of a dataset or difficulties in dealing with the Arabic language. Therefore, our study investigates the performance of using several deep classifiers with Arabic pre-trained language models to detect suicide ideation using deep learning on the largest available dataset. We selected Universal-Sentence-Encoder-multilingual (USE) and MARBERT models for conducting the experiment work. The experiment results show that the USE and deep dense model achieved 82.6% F1score. For MARBERT, the CNN+LSTM outperforms other presented deep models, which achieved an 80.8% F1score.