Audience Response Research Articles

A corpus-based approach to the reception of Chinese television dramas streamed overseas

In recent years, the state government of China has vigorously supported the export of cultural projects. As the carrier of cultural output, television dramas carry important missions of cultural communication. In the age of convergence when the practice of watching television involves more viewer engagement, audience reception investigates how audiences may engage in a broad range of interactive experiences and activities. This paper focuses on the reception of Chinese television dramas streamed overseas on two prominent video streaming sites, YouTube and Rakuten Viki. Adopting a corpus-based approach, it first identifies the top ten most popular Chinese television dramas on the two sites. Subsequently, user-generated reviews and comments for the selected dramas are collected, and a corpus analysis is conducted on the data derived from the two platforms. The findings reveal that a) viewers exhibit a notable preference for Chinese contemporary dramas, and in particular, modern romance dramas; b) the predominant concerns underlying the reception of Chinese television dramas revolve around storylines, actors/characters and subtitles; c) reviews and comments related to subtitling can be categorized into distinct themes, which reveal the major concerns of international viewership. Through the investigation, this paper attempts to promote the translation and reception of Chinese television dramas and expand the export market of Chinese productions.

Fatal flaws? Investigating the effects of machine translation errors on audience reception in the audiovisual context

ABSTRACT This study reports on an experiment where machine translation errors in subtitling are evaluated from the perspective of nine viewers who did not know the source language and seven viewers who were studying the source language. Screen recordings, think-aloud protocols, comprehension tests, and interviews were employed to explore participants’ responses and reactions to erroneous subtitles and to investigate how specific errors impacted comprehension and immersion in the viewing experience. The analysis identifies which errors were most noticed and to what extent those errors affected viewers’ trust in the subtitles. Errors causing significant misunderstanding and distrust are initially considered ‘fatal’, as they may halt viewer immersion and prompt disengagement from the audiovisual product. However, the findings highlight a remarkable tolerance of the uncertainty that results from errors, as viewers filter out misinformation or draw on other sources of information to construe and rectify their interpretations. This tolerance is explained in terms of a general trade-off with the enjoyment of the viewing experience, which varies in accordance with the viewer’s knowledge of the source language.

‶Don’t Say Neigh, Say Yay”

‶Don’t Say Neigh, Say Yay”

THE TRANSLATION OF SALADIN AL AYYUBI: A STUDY OF METHODS, CLARITY, AND AUDIENCE RESPONSE

The purpose of this research is to reveal the clarity of the translation in the movie Saladin Al-Ayyubi. This research uses a qualitative approach with document analysis method. The data used in this study came from the dialog sentences of the two characters' speech in the subtitle of Saladin Al-Ayyubi episode 4 on the Arabic Cartoon YouTube channel and the results of a survey conducted on respondents totaling 21 participants. To collect data, the researcher watched and observed the movie Saladin Al-Ayyubi repeatedly to transcribe the movie. After that, the researcher distributed questionnaires to classify and analyze the types of methods, clarity, and audience responses to the Arabic - Indonesian translation in the Salahuddin Al-Ayyubi film. The findings of this study are the types of methods used in the Arabic - Indonesian translation of Saladin Al-Ayyubi movie and the level of clarity of the methods used according to the audience. The researcher found five out of eight Newmark methods used in the translation, namely (1) word-by-word method; (2) semantic method; (3 free method; (4) literal method; and (5) communicative method. The level of intelligibility in the Arabic - Indonesian subtitles of Saladin Al-Ayyubi movie shows that 19% of the text is at a low level of legibility, 59% of the text is at a medium level of legibility, and 22% of the text is at a high level of legibility.

Female Images in Documentary Cinema About the North Caucasus: Kitsch and Ways of Overcoming It

The heterogeneity and diversity of the North Caucasus culture, which has been rediscovered in recent years due to the growing demand for domestic tourism, inevitably attracts the attention of journalists, filmmakers and researchers. The relevance of the issues is confirmed by the release of a variety of audiovisual content devoted to the socio–cultural specificities of life in the Caucasus. Documentary materials about the region in various genres – from reportage to large documentary films – are released regularly and provoke contradictory audience responses. The novelty of the study lies in the compilation of a list of artistic expressive means of audiovisual works that contribute to the creation of a certain image of the region’s inhabitants and the peculiarities of their socio–cultural life. The author analyses contemporary documentary materials about the role and status of women in the culture of the peoples of the North Caucasus, published on the Internet or released on the big screen for 2015–2021. The artistic analysis of the pictures allowed us to identify the main expressive means used by the authors of audiovisual works. Among them we can single out visual metaphor, leitmotif, cliché, montage, presence of the author and voice–over text, interviews, audio accompaniment. These artistic means are not characteristic features of one type of cinema, but they are tools of audiovisual narrative and occur in different proportions in the films. A comparative analysis of the films was conducted, which helped to systematize the material and to determine that these documentaries about the region exist in such artistic categories as kitsch, propaganda and visual anthropology. This has a direct impact on the viewer’s perception of the documentary material and generates a multitude of interpretations both within and outside the region.

The Use of an Audience Response System in a Dental Gross Anatomy Practical Exam

Background: Traditional methods for administering and scoring gross anatomy practical laboratory examinations are time and resource-intensive and can be susceptible to errors in grading. Alternative approaches, such as audience response systems (e.g., clickers) and computerized scoring, appear to hold promise to improve the examination experience for students and improve the efficiency and accuracy of grading. Method: To assess perceptions of using such systems, two cohorts of students who completed the gross anatomy practical examination using clicker technology at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry were invited to complete the survey. Results: A total of 155 students completed the study. Responses reflect a mostly positive appraisal of the use of clicker technology by most students. In particular, students reported that submitting responses was easier and that the speed of grading and feedback on examination performance improved considerably. Conclusion: Based on the survey results, the use of audience response systems appears to have more benefits than liabilities and seems to be a worthwhile technology to use for practical laboratory examinations. KEYWORDS: Gross Anatomy, Practical Examination, Clickers, Audience Response System.

Cultural distance perceived by Chinese audiences in the Korean film Silenced: a study of cross-cultural receptions in film content elements

IntroductionIn the realm of cross-cultural film dissemination, cultural distance emerges as a pivotal factor influencing the reception of domestic audiences to foreign cinematic productions. Despite Korea's thriving film industry and China's vast film market, the cultural distance experienced by Korean films in China remains largely unexplored. This study focuses on the Korean film Silenced, renowned as a classic that champions justice in Korea.MethodBy employing qualitative survey and thematic analysis, this study investigates the cultural distance perceived by forty-four Chinese audiences when watching Silenced.ResultsThe findings revealed that various content elements, such as the film's setting, translation of verbal expression, non-verbal expression of film characters, and visuals/non-diegetic music did not exhibit cultural distance among Chinese audiences. Nevertheless, the plots of morally compromised characters with positive identities, theme exploration of societal darkness and human darkness, and tragic ending introduced a palpable sense of cultural distance perceived by Chinese audiences.DiscussionThis study scrutinizes the outcomes through the lenses of Korean film and Chinese audiences. While certain aspects of Korean cinema and Chinese audience preferences exhibit cultural proximity, mitigating barriers to appreciation in select content domains, Silenced adeptly employs the plots, themes, and ending to delve into the darkness of human nature and societal dynamics. However, under the influence of China's official propaganda and film censorship, Chinese participants evinced a constrained appreciation for cinematic portrayals of human and societal darkness. Concurrently, Chinese participants manifested expectations for films to provide a source of relaxation, a notion incongruent with the oppressive ambiance evoked by Silenced.

Culture as window dressing? A threefold methodological framework for researching the locality of Netflix series

Considering the implications of Netflix’s role as a content producer for cultural diversity in Europe, this methodological article investigates how to define and measure the locality of Netflix Originals. We employ a threefold methodological study based on industry data analysis, audience reception research, and content analysis. This replicable and scalable methodological design provides a solid analytical framework for future studies examining Netflix Originals from the normative perspective of cultural diversity. Demonstrating the steps of our exploratory study, we also find that Netflix’s locally-produced but globally-oriented content uses culture as window dressing, warranting further research.

Effects of using audience response systems (Kahoot and Google Forms and Sheets) on learning of medical students in a large class: A questionnaire-based retrospective study

AbstractThe effectiveness of implementing various audience response system (ARS) formats in large classes to engage students, positively influence academic outcomes, and align with their preferences for different types of activities lacked sufficient information. This study aimed to (1) evaluate students’ perspectives on different ARS formats, including Kahoot for individual (Kahoot-I) and team (Kahoot-T) play, and Google Forms and Google Sheets for multiple-choice questions (Google-MCQ) and for open-ended questions (Google-OEQ) on different aspects with/without subgroup analysis of students into quartiles (Q1-lowest-Q4-highest) of summative scores, and (2) determine correlations between students’ perspectives and academic outcomes. At the course’s final class, a QR code for a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire was displayed for all enrolled medical students. 269/312 students (86.22%) provided written consent and completed the questionnaire constructed based on dimensions of student engagement. Across all ARS formats, students rated scores ≥ 4 for almost all aspects, with participation in class receiving the highest scores. For each aspect, Kahoot-T was rated highest in various aspects and Google-MCQ for “understanding” and Google-OEQ for “asking/answering question”. Higher academic achievers expressed more “enthusiasm” for Kahoot-I than lower achievers (P < 0.05). Formative and summative scores were positively correlated with many aspects. Students reported high engagement with all ARS formats, with higher academic achievers rating them with higher scores. Kahoot-T was the most favored for multiple aspects, Google-MCQ for “understanding” and Google-OEQ for interactive “asking/answering question”. Thus, selecting ARS in alignment with learning objective could enhance students’ engagement and learning outcomes.

Analyzing the Evolution of Indonesian Wayang Puppetry and Its Fusion with Modern Theater and Performance Arts

The integration of Wayang, a traditional Indonesian puppetry form, with modern theater and performance arts presents a unique blend of tradition and innovation. This paper explores the challenges and opportunities arising from this fusion, analyzing its cultural, artistic, and social implications. Through collaborative projects and technological advancements, Wayang has evolved to meet the demands of contemporary audiences while preserving its authentic cultural heritage. Audience reception and engagement with hybrid performances reflect the dynamic nature of cultural exchange and dialogue, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation. Despite challenges such as cultural appropriation and technological integration, Wayang continues to inspire creativity, empower communities, and promote cross-cultural exchange. As a symbol of Indonesia’s rich cultural diversity, Wayang bridges the past and the present, offering valuable insights into the transformative power of the arts in a globalized world.

MITE Monthly Tip February 2024 Audience Response Systems

MITE Monthly Tip February 2024 Audience Response Systems

Impact of Social Media Advertising on Consumer Behaviour: An Empirical Study

This empirical study delves into the intricate relationship between social media advertising and consumer behavior, seeking to provide a nuanced understanding of the mechanisms through which these digital platforms influence contemporary consumer decision-making. With the pervasive ubiquity of social media in today's society, businesses increasingly turn to these platforms to engage with consumers. This research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys, content analysis, and experimental methodologies to unravel the multifaceted impact of social media advertising. The literature review synthesizes existing knowledge, drawing on theories such as Social Cognitive Theory and the Elaboration Likelihood Model, to establish a theoretical foundation. Previous findings on consumer engagement, trust, and the role of influencers in social media advertising are critically examined, offering a comprehensive backdrop for the study. The research design involves a targeted exploration of various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, assessing the effectiveness of diverse advertising formats. Consumer engagement and interaction are scrutinized, with a focus on user-generated content as a pivotal indicator of audience receptivity. The study also delves into the distinctive impact of influencer marketing and the factors contributing to its effectiveness in the realm of social media advertising. An in-depth analysis of the correlation between social media advertising exposure and consumer purchase intentions forms a core aspect of the study. Factors mediating or moderating this relationship are explored, shedding light on the nuanced pathways through which social media influences consumer decision-making processes. Challenges and ethical considerations in the domain of social media advertising are addressed, encompassing issues such as ad fatigue and privacy concerns. The study concludes by offering practical recommendations for advertisers and marketers, grounded in the empirical insights gleaned from the research. In synthesizing theoretical frameworks, empirical findings, and practical implications, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the impact of social media advertising on consumer behavior, offering valuable insights for businesses navigating the dynamic landscape of digital marketing.

Gender Politics and Stereotypes in Bollywood Films Dhrishyam 1 and 2<b></b>

Indian cinema is one of the most influential and powerful tools for addressing various social issues via the medium of a screenplay. The Indian film industry, commonly known as Bollywood, is one of the largest and most prolific film industries (Pillania 115) in the world. This article aims to explore Gender Roles and Stereotypes prevalent in Bollywood films, through an in-depth analysis of the popular films Dhrishyam 1 and 2, hereafter referred to as the Dhrishyam film series. By examining the portrayal of lead characters, the study aims to shed light on the ways in which Indian cinema perpetuates societal norms and biases. Through a combination of qualitative content analysis and audience reception analysis, the research provides empirical evidence to support the claim that Indian films, including the “Dhrishyam” film series, contribute to the diffusion of gender stereotyping, consolidating unreasonable societal expectations. With a focus on the intersectionality of gender, identity, and culture, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationships between Indian cinema and societal constructs, leading to critical insights into theneed for more diverse and inclusive portrayals in the film industry.

Online Learning in Medical Student Clerkship: A Survey of Student Perceptions and Future Directions.

Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had a major impact on medical education with clerkship students abruptly removed from clinical activities in 2020 and hastily immersed in online learning to maintain medical education. In 2022, students returned to in-person clinical experiences, but synchronous learning sessions continued online with extensive use of asynchronous online resources. This change offers a unique opportunity to gather information about students' perspectives regarding the acceptability and effectiveness of online learning strategies. This study aims to explore the clerkship student experience with the integration of online learning and in-person learning into formalized educational sessions in clerkship. Methodology The authors administered an online survey to clerkship students at the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary, Canada in spring 2022. The survey consisted of primarily Likert-style questions to explore the perceived effectiveness of various online learning strategies. Results are reported as the proportion selecting "quite effective" or "extremely effective." Results A total of 89 students responded to the survey (57.4% of graduating class). For synchronous online learning, case-based learning was perceived as the most effective teaching strategy (61.8%), and audience response systems were the most effective strategy for improving audience engagement (70.1%). For asynchronous online learning, interactive cases (84.9%) and student-developed online study guides (83.6%) were perceived as the most effective. Students held varying perceptions regarding how online learning impacted their well-being. When considering future clerkship curricula, the majority of clerkship students preferred a blend of in-person and online learning. Conclusions This study identified that most clerkship students prefer a hybrid of in-person and online learning and that ideal online learning curricula could include case-based learning, audience response systems, and a variety of asynchronous learning resources. These results can guide curriculum development and design at other medical institutions.

The circular model of “SOME” on digital public relations management of Universitas Islam Riau

Background: The transition of information channels used by the general public today is increasingly centered on digital media. This is indeed an opportunity for various institutions to enter the target market without having to go through filters as before. So, by reading this pattern Universitas Islam Riau adapts its public relations strategy from conventional to digital wisely. Purpose: This research was conducted to explore how UIR used digital in its public relations strategy. Methods: To understand the situation and the data collected, this research uses the SOME (share, optimize, manage, engage) model in elaboration. As for the research, the descriptive qualitative method is chosen as an approach to understanding five informants who were on the public relations team for UIR. Results: Following the SOME model, it can be mapped that in share, UIR used five social media and a website. Optimize, by arranging social media surfaces and collaborating with public figures. In managing, they monitor every audience response to each post through social media insight features, as well as direct and real-time actions to the audience on social media accounts. In engage, to publish the latest information and respond to all incoming messages. Conclusion: UIR uses digital public relations in managing information, going through four main stages, starting from the process of sharing, optimizing, managing, and attracting. Implications: The results of this study can provide input to university public relations to manage digital public relations optimally to always increase and build audience trust effectively and quickly.

Multimedia Messaging for Social Change: Assessing the Impact of Multimedia Integration in Development Communication Campaigns

This research explores the transformative potential of multimedia messaging in development communication campaigns, with a focus on its impact on social change. As technology continues to advance, multimedia integration, encompassing elements such as text, images, audio, and video, has become a powerful tool for conveying messages and influencing behaviour. This study aims to assess the effectiveness and implications of incorporating multimedia into development communication initiatives. The paper examines various multimedia formats utilized in social change campaigns and assesses their influence on target audiences. By reviewing existing literature and case studies the study aims to identify patterns, challenges, and success factors associated with multimedia messaging. Additionally, attention is given to the role of digital platforms and social media in amplifying the reach and engagement of multimedia campaigns. Key considerations include the cognitive and emotional impact of multimedia messages, audience receptivity, and the potential for behaviour change. The research also investigates ethical considerations related to multimedia communication in the context of social change, addressing issues such as cultural sensitivity, inclusivity, and the potential for unintended consequences. Findings from this research will contribute valuable insights to the field of development communication, guiding practitioners, and researchers in optimizing the design and implementation of multimedia messaging strategies for effective social change. The overarching goal is to enhance our understanding of the dynamic interplay between multimedia communication and its ability to drive positive societal transformations.

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.

Light and Shadow: Exploring the Aesthetics of Dune’s Visual Spectacle through Effects, Design, and Art Direction

This paper explores the profound aesthetics of light and shadow in Denis Villeneuve’s Dune. Drawing upon elements of cinematography, special effects, design, and art direction, the analysis examines how the interplay of light and shadow serves as a narrative language, shaping the visual storytelling experience. The study investigates the innovative use of lighting to enhance visual effects, the impact of design elements on thematic depth, and the role of art direction in creating a visually cohesive world. Additionally, it investigates the emotional and psychological dimensions influenced by the aesthetic choices, contributing to the film’s atmospheric tone and mood. Through an examination of audience reception and critical acclaim, the paper underscores Dune’s significant contribution to the contemporary visual language of cinema. The findings suggest potential areas for further research in the dynamic field of film aesthetics.

Adapting Visual Thinking Strategies as a Tool for Evaluating the Impact of a Work of Public Art

This article presents the development and application of an approach for evaluating audience response to and meaning-making from large-scale public murals, created as part of an art-science-community engagement project. The project adapted Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) facilitation, a common technique in visual arts education, with a focus group style interview to investigate if the murals generated the intended meaning-making among members of the communities they depicted. We piloted a VTS-centered focus group discussion with three groups of community residents in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley. Thematic coding of observations in the discussion groups suggest that a VTS-centered focus group is an effective approach to evaluate audience meaning-making by prompting slow looking, protracted discussion, and offering a structure for discussion that keeps the facilitator from shaping topics of conversation. The affordances and limitations of this approach as a tool for research and evaluation of learning through public art and exhibitions is discussed.

Humor and Foreign Policy Narration: The Persuasive Power and Limitations of Russia’s Foreign Policy Pranks

Abstract This article explores the persuasive power and limitations of humor in narrating foreign policy issues to publics. I focus on audience reception of humor produced by state and state-affiliated actors to advance foreign policy narratives, deflect external criticism, and ridicule opponents. This article examines Russia’s foreign policy pranks, widely assumed to be a tool of influence and persuasion, and their reception by their primary, domestic audience. Using focus groups to discuss pranks on the theme of mutual interference between Russia and the United States, this study relates participants’ reactions to wider foreign policy narratives and questions links between reception and political views. I argue that while humor drives the popularity of the pranks, their power to convince remains ambiguous. Their persuasive power is mostly limited to reinforcing existing views and already popular narratives, while both pro-government and oppositional publics expressed strong suspicions of their fake or propagandistic nature. Even when doubting the pranks’ politics, however, participants were entertained by their humor—suggesting that humorous narration of foreign policy presents means for increased outreach first and persuasion second. Any adverse reactions were mostly directed at the pranksters rather than government officials—highlighting how humor can be a politically expedient way of narrating contentious foreign policy issues to publics through proxies.