Audience Expectations Research Articles

Let us play something else: Thoughts on ‘games are different’ and game scholarship in the Trump era

This piece takes its cue from a pair of incidents – a not unfamiliar theme in game studies – relating to game scholarship and its engagement with right-wing politics. In the first case, well-known game scholar Bonnie ‘Bo’ Ruberg called on editors and reviewers to stop insisting that scholars include a reference to a certain online campaign of harassment, doxing and threats of physical violence. In the second case, I had a reviewer insist that I had to include a reference to the ‘Fortnite to alt-right pipeline’ because clearly games were causing alt-right lunacy. To be sure, these both constitute genre criticism – among others – at its most reductive and cynical, deciding what the institutional and audience expectations entail based on an assumption of the industrial ones. Then, biographical criticism and assertions about authorial intent or the necessary ‘touchstones’ began to appear. There seems to be a consistent and persistent insistence that somehow even the best and most accomplished scholars should forget decades of scholarship because ‘games are different’ and this tendency has been conditioned and shaped by reading games through the ‘lens’ of the Trump presidency. This is important because it confirms that essays about games still tend to fit into one of the two boxes Ruberg ticks: game scholars who are not necessarily adept at the specific content area or specialists in a given field who are not really game scholars. It is telling and symptomatic of the centripetal and centrifugal movements in game studies; that is, from within and without. Admittedly, games are different, but not so different that we should forget or ignore decades of scholarship or worse, do not bother to find out if it exists at all. Not only are many of these positions ahistorical – ignoring the fact that, as some much maligned games quite cleverly point out repeatedly within, the same things have been said about the corrupting power of soap operas, romance novels, comic books, wrestling, rap and hip hop, backwards masking in heavy metal and plain old rock ‘n’ roll – the positions are also tacitly or unwittingly ageist, classist and/or occasionally racist, homophobic and transphobic even as the author purports to be concerned with inequitable representations. Moreover, there are peculiarly US American concerns that are transposed onto ostensibly universal ones. These reveal that even the most ‘woke’ of the American left can be a cultural imperialist and that American exceptionalism is inescapable if not ineluctable.

Choreographing the disabled spectator: Disrupting audience expectations in Dancer and rampa landscape

Representation of ‘differing bodyminds’ in dance has expanded how dancing bodies are imagined. Examining two performances in Helsinki, Finland, Dancer and rampa landscape: lazy, late, absent through collaborative autoethnography we consider in what ways these works might choreograph for disabled spectators. We argue that choreography addressing disability and neurodivergence that does not consider the diverse access needs of spectators, risks creating hermeneutical injustice. This occurs when individuals experience harm due to their inability to understand or articulate their own experiences. Hermeneutical injustice is characterized by inequitable access to disability knowledge and a declarative approach to access where performances, venues and artists claim to be accessible for spectators without attention to what is necessary for access. Through this process, spectators without access needs have more access to the choreographic knowledge of disability. We alternate our experiences of these performances with reflections on spectator access and draw on framing materials to provide context. We focus on how the performance choreographs for disabled spectators – relating our own embodied experiences and observations as audience members. Ultimately, cripping choreography cannot just involve onstage representation; it must consider and welcome the disabled spectator.

A STUDY ON CROSS CULTURAL ANALYSIS OF SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING’S IMPACT ON YOUTH IN CHENNAI AND DUBAI WITH REFERENCE TO ZESTLOGIC SYSTEMS PVT LTD

In the era of digital transformation, Organization embarked on a comprehensive study to explore the dynamics of social media use, marketing perceptions, and digital content consumption among 345 participants. Utilizing statistical methods such as Spearman's rho correlation, Mann Whitney U test, and Kruskal-Wallis H test, this research investigates the interrelationships between social media and marketing strategies within the framework of IT services like cloud computing, data analytics, operational technologies, IoT, and patent portfolio management. Supported by primary data collected through questionnaires via email and WhatsApp, this time-bound study connects demographic data with respondent behaviors to analyze the influences on buyer decisions. The goal is to use these insights to enhance Organization's marketing strategies, with the possibility for further studies to deepen understanding of various influential factors. The findings indicate significant correlations between social media engagement and brand perception, underscoring the importance of culturally sensitive and authentic marketing strategies. The study identifies specific digital engagement behaviors and preferences, emphasizing the need for Organization to tailor its marketing efforts to better meet audience expectations. Recommendations include refining marketing strategies to better align with consumer preferences and enhancing the cultural relevance of campaigns to boost marketing effectiveness. Keywords: Social media marketing, digital content consumption, demographic analysis, culturally sensitive marketing, buyer behavior.

Translating Identity in Leila Abouzeid’s Return to Childhood

This paper delves into the intricate process of translating migrant literature, using Leila Abouzeid’s autobiography Return to Childhood as its case study. Beyond merely examining the multifaceted mechanics of translation, it uncovers the profound significance embedded within this process. By navigating linguistic disparities and cultural nuances, translators, it avers, play a pivotal role in bridging gaps between cultures. By employing a detailed analytical framework, the study elucidates how translation serves as a dynamic catalyst for cultural transformation. In so doing, it seeks to catch the delicate balance between preserving cultural identity and catering to the expectations of diverse audiences. Additionally, the paper underscores the pivotal role of migrant authors as agents of cultural hybridization. Through their translated works, they challenge dominant cultural narratives and dismantle stereotypes, enriching the cultural landscape with diverse perspectives. Moreover, the discussion delves into the inherent power dynamics of translation, emphasizing its primordial role in fostering cross-cultural understanding and disrupting monolithic cultural identities. In fine, this study illuminates the transformative potential of translation in shaping cultural discourse and promoting inclusivity on a global scale.

From field to feed: Norwegian Football Players’ usage and self-presentation on Instagram throughout the UEFA Women's EURO 2022 Championship

The UEFA Women's EURO 2022 and the FIFA 2023 Women's World Cup set new attendance records, thereby reflecting the growing popularity of women's football. In this context, social media platforms have become critical tools for women athletes offering opportunities for sponsorship and activism. This study focuses on the Instagram activity of five individual players from the Norwegian national team during the UEFA Women's EURO 2022. It examines the following research questions. (a) What type of content did the players post throughout the UEFA Women's EURO 2022 Championship period? (b) How did content type and posting frequency vary throughout the championship period? (c) How did audiences engage with the various types of content posted on Instagram throughout the championship period? Methodologically, this article is based on a quantitative content analysis of posts, stories and comments shared by the players during the championship period. Our findings reveal a diverse content sharing pattern that is indicative of strategic impression management. Players predominantly shared sports-related content to enhance their profiles as committed athletes; a tactic aligning with audience expectations. Their posting frequency peaked around matchdays, reduced post-loss and indicated a strategic approach to maintain a positive online presence. Post-elimination, players diversified their content by incorporating business and personal aspects, thereby indicating a shift to a more multifaceted self-presentation. Audience engagement was largely positive, with interactions showing support and encouragement, which reinforced the effectiveness of sports-focused content in garnering positive reactions. However, the posts relating to LGBTIQA+ activism prompted a notable amount of negative feedback, which highlighted the challenges and potential backlash when engaging in social media activism.

Key Selection Factors Influencing Animation Films from the Perspective of the Audience

The animation industry is an important part of China’s cultural and creative industries. In fact, it is the leading cultural and creative industry in China. However, there is insufficient research on the audience’s views in China’s animation industry, which has become an important research gap. Thus, an integrated approach of FAHP and GRA is proposed in this study, to analyse and evaluate the key selection factors for the Chinese animation industry from the perspective of a Chinese audience. In this research, in both FAHP and GRA models, factors such as visual appealing character, interesting performance of character animation, and easy-to-understand storyline are prioritised conditions for the selection of Chinese animation from the perspective of Chinese audiences. The main contribution of this research is to underscore the value of the hybrid MCDM model to aid Chinese animation companies in aligning their productions with audience expectations and making informed decisions. Finally, this study offers a systematic and objective model for Chinese animation selection, providing practical insights that can be applied in the industry and can serve as a valuable reference for future research in similar domains.

Constructively Aligned Instructional Design for Oral Presentations

In the paper "Constructively Aligned Instructional Design for Oral Presentations," the authors explore the implementation and outcomes of the 'General, Particular Specific' (GPS) model as a framework for curriculum instructional design for oral presentations within STEM education at an R1 Polytechnic University. Objective: This study aims to investigate the impact of the 'General, Particular Specific' (GPS) model on the enhancement of constructive alignment in curriculum instructional design for oral presentations in STEM education to improve students' oral communication skills and their effectiveness in technical communication. Theoretical Framework: Constructive alignment, curriculum-based Assessment, and curriculum and instructional design stand out, providing a solid basis for understanding the context of the investigation. The literature includes foundational texts on marketing management, center-based engineering research, Bloom's taxonomy of educational objectives, and the principles of enhancing teaching through constructive alignment. Additionally, it acknowledges the multifaceted nature of instructional design, emphasizing the widespread adoption of the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation), showcasing a structured, comprehensive approach to educational planning and execution. Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises a qualitative study design, utilizing case study approaches within the Humanities and Social Science department at an R1 Polytechnic University. Data was collected through classroom observations, instructor interviews, and analysis of student presentation outcomes before and after implementing the GPS model. Results and Discussion: The results revealed significant improvements in students' abilities to think critically about content alignment with audience expectations and effectively communicate technical information. In the discussion section, these results are contextualized in light of the theoretical framework, underscoring the effectiveness of the GPS model in fostering clear, explicit instruction and scaffolding in oral presentation skills. The study acknowledges possible limitations, including its scope within a single institution and the need for broader empirical validation. Research Implications: This research's practical and theoretical implications are discussed, providing insights into how the results can be applied or influence practices in STEM education. These implications could encompass curriculum development, pedagogical strategies, and enhancing communication skills in STEM fields. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the originality of applying the GPS model within the context of oral presentation instruction, marking a significant shift from traditional, less structured approaches to a more scaffolded and constructively aligned methodology. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by its potential to impact pedagogical practices, particularly in enhancing the oral presentation capabilities of STEM students, thereby addressing a critical gap in STEM education and communication training.

Evaluating the management of ethnic minority heritage and the use of digital technologies for learning

PurposeThis article examines curatorial practices, both traditional and digital, in the Guizhou Provincial Museum’s ethnic exhibition to assess their effectiveness in representing ethnic minority cultures, fostering learning and inspiring curiosity about ethnic textiles and costumes and associated cultures. It also explores audience expectations concerning digital technology use in future exhibitions.Design/methodology/approachA mixed-methods approach was employed, where visitor data were collected through questionnaires, together with interviews with expert, museum professionals and ethnic minority textile practitioners. Their expertise proved instrumental in shaping the design of the study and enhancing the overall visitor experience, and thus fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of ethnic minority cultures.FindingsVisitors were generally satisfied with the exhibition, valuing their educational experience on ethnic textiles and cultures. There is a notable demand for more immersive digital technologies in museum exhibitions. The study underscores the importance of participatory design with stakeholders, especially ethnic minority groups, for genuine and compelling cultural representation.Originality/valueThis study delves into the potentials of digital technologies in the curation of ethnic minority textiles, particularly for enhancing education and cultural communication. Ethnic textiles and costumes provide rich sensory experience, and they carry deep cultural significance, especially during festive occasions. Our findings bridge this gap; they offer insights for museums aiming to deepen the visitor experiences and understanding of ethnic cultures through the use of digital technologies.

“Stay tuned!"

“Stay tuned!"

Legitimate governance in international politics: Towards a relational theory of legitimation

AbstractHow do governing actors in international politics become legitimised? Current approaches to the study of legitimation do not fully account for the complexities of governance in contemporary international and global politics because they pre-specify ‘sources’ of legitimacy and treat change in audience expectations towards rightful rule as exogenous to legitimation processes. Instead, this article synthesises existing models of legitimation with relational theory to argue that constellations of institutional complexities necessitate an analytical focus on audiences and their expectations as embedded in governance networks. It then provides a relational theory of legitimation, emphasising the mechanisms undergirding legitimation: legitimation should be conceptualised as a process of congruence-finding between actors’ normative expectations. A governance relation might be influenced towards greater or lesser congruence via several mechanisms working at the level of the relation and the wider network, with more congruence giving rise to stabler governance practices. In this way, the theory builds upon legitimation scholarship by developing pathways to investigate legitimation across the varied contexts of international politics: it avoids a normative background theory of legitimacy sources and provides an improved framework for understanding change in the legitimacy of institutions over time by considering endogenous mechanisms of legitimation.

What gets published and what doesn’t? Exploring optimal distinctiveness and diverse expectations in entrepreneurship articles

The field of entrepreneurship has seen remarkable growth, increasing the expectations of academic audiences. Articles need to balance novelty with rigorous methodology, theoretical contributions, social implications, and coherent argumentation to succeed in the publication process. However, navigating these varied and sometimes conflicting expectations to achieve optimal distinctiveness in academic narratives is challenging for authors. To explore how authors can achieve optimal distinctiveness amidst these complex expectations, we studied academic narratives and related editorial decisions of two leading entrepreneurship journals, Entrepreneurship: Theory & Practice (ETP, 4,151 papers) and Small Business Economics Journal (SBEJ, 4,043 papers), using computer-aided text analysis. Our study debunks common assumptions about what makes a successful entrepreneurship paper, providing an empirical basis for understanding actual versus perceived publication requisites. Furthermore, we extend optimal distinctiveness theory by demonstrating that high distinctiveness is not uniformly advantageous, meeting numerous expectations is not necessarily beneficial, and clear language is crucial for complex narratives. Our study underscores that crafting narratives is more nuanced than traditionally believed.

Temporal Journeys and Human Perception: Analyzing Nonlinear Narratives and Scientific Fantasy in the Film Arrival

This paper explores the nuanced interaction between temporal journeys, nonlinear narratives, and human perception, using the highly acclaimed film Arrival as its focal point. Drawing from theoretical frameworks in time perception, cognitive psychology, and narrative theory, we investigate the convergence of these perspectives in the analysis of nonlinear storytelling. The literature review encompasses studies on the impact of nonlinear narratives on audience perception, relevant theories on time cognition, and scholarly works dissecting Arrival within the science fiction genre. The film analysis section dissects Arrival, highlighting its nonlinear narrative structure, the portrayal of temporal journeys, and the role of language in shaping temporal perception. The paper explores how Arrival challenges traditional notions of time and reality, scrutinizing cognitive aspects like memory and consciousness, and the linguistic impact on temporal understanding. The scientific fantasy within Arrival, notably linguistic relativity, is scrutinized for its balance between scientific grounding and fantastical elements. Audience reception and impact investigate how nonlinear narratives, exemplified by Arrival, influence audience expectations, preferences, and broader cinematic trends. The paper concludes with reflections on the implications of Arrival within the context of temporal journeys, human perception, and the lasting impact on the science fiction genre.

Ternopil region museums in the age of social media: From preservation to interaction

Purpose of the research. The article is devoted to the current topic of museums’ role in modern society, which is characterised by the widespread use of social media as the main communication and information channel. The research methodology is based on the use of general scientific and special research methods: analysis, synthesis, generalisation, systematisation of materials, induction, and deduction. The novelty of the study lies in the comprehensiveness of the research on the social media activity of museums in the Ternopil region. The authors investigate how museums adapt to new audience requirements and use social media as a tool to attract visitors, promote cultural heritage, and create a dialogue with the public. The article is based on a comparative analysis of the experience of different museums that use social media to achieve their mission. The authors put forward a hypothesis that museums in the era of social media are moving from preservation to interaction, becoming not only cultural but also social institutions. Conclusions. The author emphasises that museums are important carriers of cultural memory and identity, but their role is changing due to the spread of digital technologies and social media. Social media provide museums with opportunities to increase visibility, attractiveness, and accessibility, as well as to collect feedback, take into account the needs and interests of the audience, and form communities and partnerships. The author analyses how museums use social media for various purposes, such as informing, educating, entertaining, promoting, engaging, collaborating, and socialising. The authors also consider the challenges and benefits of using social media for museums, such as the changing role of visitors, competition with other sources of information and entertainment, and the need to maintain relevance and quality of content. The article concludes that museums in the era of social media should reconsider their mission and strategy to meet current trends and audience expectations. It is determined that museums should move from preservation to interaction, i.e. put not only exhibits in the centre but also people who visit them, creating opportunities for them to learn, communicate, participate, and co-create

Noble violence and civic justice: rural lords under trial in the Italian city communes 1276–1322

ABSTRACT This article analyses three criminal suits brought against nobles from rural districts of two Italian city-communes who were accused of homicide, robbery, and assault – and focuses on their courtroom defences. By the late 1200s, chivalric values and lifestyle were at odds with the political culture promoted by civic governments, while rural lords had lost most of their ancient privileges and independence to the cities. Nonetheless, in courtrooms, nobles often presented themselves as proud members of the chivalric warrior elite. The defendants may have sought to exploit the publicity of criminal trials to negotiate power and prerogatives with civic governments. Their chivalric ‘self-portraits' were adapted to the expectations of civic audiences, and were combined with legalistic arguments and appeals to municipal laws. More generally, this article investigates the reception of judicial institutions and examines the effects of the encounter between different value-systems and ‘languages’ in pre-modern polities.

Marek Edelman's Bundist Humanitarianism: Theme and Variations from the Warsaw Uprising to Solidarity

ABSTRACT: This article discusses the multivalent identities of Dr. Marek Edelman—the last surviving commandant of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising and its only leader to remain in Poland after the war. Imbued with the values of the Bund, especially its insistence on the primacy of human dignity, Edelman continued living by the Bundist ethos, pursuing his medical work and humanitarian activities, eventually translating this ethos into the values of Polish anti-communist dissidents embodied by the Solidarity movement. Based on multiple primary sources, this essay analyzes key aspects of Edelman's performed identities, such as his concept of patriotism (originating in the concept of doikayt or here and now ), his reinterpretations of the particular vs. universal significance of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, his contextualization and minimization of antisemitism in Poland, and his contentious and demonstrative relation to religion. It traces the development of these self-expressions within shifting political exigencies and implied expectations of Polish audiences for whom Edelman became a symbol of the Polish insurrectionary tradition. While Edelman's social and political activism was deeply rooted in his Bundist formation, he was also not immune from modifying his expressions of identity and his (re-)interpretations of historical events in the direction of more patriotic, "Polish" narratives that resonated with the Solidarity movement activists, who formed Edelman's milieu in his later life.

Streaming audiovisual audiences: analysis of the feelings of efficacy, alienation and cynicism in millennials and centennials in Spain and Mexico

In recent years, censorship of streaming movies and series have gone hand in hand with social movements that pressure large audiovisual production companies, distributors and OTTs through digital networks, in the context of a growing «woke culture», especially among the younger generation. This study aims to examine the psychosocial feelings of efficacy, alienation and political cynicism in the millennial and centennial generations in Mexico and Spain, the two Spanish-speaking countries with the highest rates of streaming audiovisual content consumption. For this purpose, a national survey was applied to 998 participants in both countries. Among the main results, it is highlighted that centennials feel a higher level of political efficacy, considering valid that the opinions in social networks should serve for audiovisual production companies to take into account the wishes and expectations of audiences. Regarding alienation, both generations, but especially centennials, consider that changes in the plot or story of a series or movie due to social pressure are due more to a clientelistic vision of the production companies than to the empowerment of the viewer. Finally, about political cynicism, millennials in both countries believe that audiovisual production companies respond more to political agendas interests than the idea of «responsible entertainment».

The Values in the Hollywood Cinema Market

Some have misled Hollywood cinema with impressions due to some conception that it is limited to big budgets, stars, special effects, and extensive publicity campaigns. However, it encompasses more than investment diversification, production, and commercial propaganda feature. In other words, beyond the illustrative classic Hollywood pre-sold mechanism, monopoly, and overseas market, it supports values and serves as multicultural, sexual and race equality. This paper lists the phenomenon that contemporary Hollywood cinema is revenue-driven, resulting in many low-quality and quantity reproduction cinemas such as hybrid genre is typical of formulaic filmmaking, and they arranged all the cinematic elements narrative to meet the audience's expectations. Significantly, formulaic movies have become popular and widespread in the international market and may have an unpredictable impact on the future film industry. The author believes that films are the medium for representing historical periods and are for the generation's legacy, which should craft narratives that intricately blend values and ideology. In a nutshell, it is crucial to discover a solution for cinema's unpredictable future.

TRANSLATION, MULTIMODALITY AND HORROR FICTION

The paper outlines a framework for approaching the complexities of translating multimodal means in horror fiction. Nowadays, the horror genre is reaching its peak, becoming the most remarkable mass product in demand. It is sharply distinguished from other literary genres due to generating a morbid mood and heart-stopping suspense in the textual canvas. From this perspective, the research aims to identify multimodal means essential for creating suspense in King’s horror novels “Pet Sematary” (1983) and “Outsider” (2018) and determine the translation strategies used to render them into Ukrainian. In this regard, multimodal means stir fresh interest since they implicitly complement and clarify the information transmitted verbally. The research framework is designed with two primary objectives. Firstly, to disclose the phonic and graphic means utilized in recreating horror imagery in the TL text. Secondly, to examine the translation strategies employed in rendering the multimodal means into the TL. The principles of the comparative approach were chosen to identify the similarities and differences between translation strategies in the analyzed texts. The research methodology adopted in this study enables a comprehensive study of the multimodal means in the horror fiction genre, employing a meticulous approach that involves data collection, analysis, and interpretation through the lens of translation strategies, contextual and pragmatic analyses. The conducted research reveals the involvement of phonic and graphic means to influence the readership unconsciously. The frequency of phonic means depends on the context of their occurrence. Graphic means are represented by syngraphemic, supragraphemic, and topographemic elements. To render the sense of the SL adequately and meet the TL audience expectations, the translators of “Pet Sematary” and “Outsider” advocated semantic, grammatical, and pragmatic translation strategies. Synonymous and contextual substitution, loan, antonymous and descriptive translation, addition, and compression proved to be the dominant translation transformations. The in-depth analysis has shown that the translators faced multiple hindrances, making some errors in encoding polysemiotic signs. However, the TL version makes sense, undeniably affecting the reader and retaining the author’s communicative intent.

FAST – w kierunku nowej formy dystrybucji treści

FAST – towards a new form of content distribution The streaming industry is coming full circle. Compared to its early days focused primarily on access to content via subscription, ad-supported and scheduled content is now becoming more common. This is related to phenomena that are becoming more and more noticeable on the media market: the so-called subscription fatigue, as well as the so-called the great unsubscribe, as well as cord-cutting, which is causing many streaming service providers to see their subscriber numbers decline. Streaming audiences have turned to looking for alternative programming options, such as FAST (free-ad supported-streaming TV). The development of this sector does not currently revolutionize the streaming market, but it creates, on the one hand, new opportunities for content distribution and responds to audience expectations, and on the other hand, it creates additional opportunities for content monetization. The purpose of this article is to illustrate a new trend in the way both content is distributed and created in the streaming services space. For the purposes of this analysis, it was hypothesized that in the streaming industry, ad-supported services and scheduled live programming are gaining in popularity and constitute a significant alternative to existing business models. Therefore, the article is a review and is based on the analysis of available reports, practical studies, as well as expert statements. Moreover, the author’s intention is to indicate the directions and areas of changes that will become part of the Polish media landscape in the near future.

Visual Syntax: How Visual and Verbal Approach Promote Social Unity Through Thematic Television Commercials

Commercials on television, in particular, have a significant impact on nation-building in addition to promoting products and services. Ads need to express ideas that extend beyond the bounds of the ads themselves, therefore they need captivating tales, unique ways of communicating with customers, and smart abstractions. By examining the effect of thematic television advertising by Petronas on social cohesion, this study provides a first step toward answering this question. Textual and visual aspects work together to generate a type of discourse in effective advertising, one that can influence a target audience's beliefs, values, expectations, and behaviours. Advertising permeates our daily lives and is rich with symbolic significance. Indeed, commercials, along with TV shows and films, serve as a catalyst to build and fortify national unity by spreading stories or ideas that stress the significance of appreciating and valuing Malaysia's many cultural traditions. The researchers set out to find examples of thematic television advertising that promotes societal togetherness through visual and verbal approaches, gestures, and graphic style. Three methods were used in this study; meta-analysis was used on the TVC, naturalistic observation was used on humans, and surveys were used to ask respondents some predetermined questions. The conceptual approach helped bring to light the significant visual attributes of communication media, especially TVC, in encouraging local audience members to accept and embrace the cultural differences present in Malaysia's diverse social landscape. Keywords: Visual syntax, social unity, thematic, television commercials, Malaysia.