Cross-cultural Interactions Research Articles

The myth of the Others: Western representations of the Dan people and boat clusters in the island city of Guangzhou, China (1842–1900)

Abstract This article studies Western (primarily Anglophone) representations of the Dan people (boat people) and the boat clusters on which they lived, relative to the mainland, in the island city of Guangzhou, focusing on 1842–1900. A change occurred over time, as the Dan went from being in close interaction with Westerners prior to the Opium Wars to being peripheral to Western interests and activities. This shift is evident in Western writings, and negative representations of the Dan came to dominate in the late nineteenth century. This mirrored changing sociospatial power relations between Westerners and the terrestrial Chinese, as Westerners increasingly gained access to the onshore city of Guangzhou itself, in part from the colonial island enclave of Shamian. Changing crosscultural interactions affected how the Chinese Others were perceived and ultimately how the Chinese whole was intertextually constructed in Western colonial discourse.

Breaking the bubble-addressing managers’ cultural biases in designing tourist experiences

Although cross-cultural interactions and cultural bubbles have been researched extensively in tourism, these issues have often been viewed one-sidedly. More precisely, in contemporary literature, cultural bubbles are mostly considered one-sided biases that prevent tourists from fully enjoying the culture of their hosts. Besides that, it is important to bear in mind that a tourist offer itself is also formed from the perspectives of tourism experience designers and tourism managers. Therefore, it is important to consider how the perception of a tourist offer is distorted by looking from inside the bubble of tourist culture. This paper highlights managers? cultural biases in designing tourist experiences, which have often been overlooked in cross-cultural tourism studies. It is crucial to have this discussion now so that the global tourist industry can continue to provide local experiences, as tourism managers and employees in the sector are increasingly interacting with people from diverse cultural contexts. This might be beneficial for the cultural expression of destinations, on the one hand, as well as for providing more valuable experiences for tourists, on the other.

INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION IN MULTICULTURAL EDUCATION: STRATEGIES, CHALLENGES, AND OPPORTUNITIES

In an increasingly interconnected and diverse world, the intersection of intercultural communication and multicultural education holds paramount importance in shaping inclusive and equitable learning environments. This research paper delves into the intricate dynamics of this intersection, aiming to elucidate the strategies, challenges, and opportunities inherent in fostering effective cross-cultural interactions within educational settings. Drawing upon foundational theories of intercultural communication and multicultural education, the paper explores the symbiotic relationship between these fields and their pivotal role in promoting cultural competence, empathy, and social justice among learners from diverse backgrounds. Through a comprehensive synthesis of literature, empirical studies, based on faculty perceptions and comments enriched with the students’ feedback, it examines the multifaceted challenges posed by cultural differences, linguistic diversity, and power dynamics in educational contexts. Moreover, the paper critically evaluates pedagogical approaches, curriculum design, and teacher training programs aimed at enhancing intercultural understanding and inclusivity. Additionally, it considers the impact of technological advancements and globalization on intercultural communication within educational spheres, emphasizing both the opportunities and challenges they present. By offering insights into effective practices and policy implications, this paper seeks to contribute to the ongoing discourse on fostering culturally responsive and transformative educational experiences for learners of diverse cultural backgrounds.

A Study On The Cultural Memory Of Thai-Chinese Lion Dance In Bangkok, Thailand

This study emphasizes how important the Thai-Chinese lion dance culture is to Bangkok, Thailand, and how long-lasting it is. The lion dance, which is a pillar of Chinese cultural heritage and has been painstakingly passed down through the centuries in the Bangkok area, is a monument to the diverse range of Chinese customs and the appeal of their cultural manifestations. Through an exploration of the several functions of the lion dance in the Chinese community, this essay clarifies how it serves as a link between historical legacies and modern realities, promoting a feeling of cultural continuity and development. The inherent worth and significance of lion dance tradition are being recognized more and more in this globalized age, supporting Thai-Chinese people's sense of cultural pride and identity while promoting cross-cultural interaction and mutual enrichment. This essay explores the lion dance's smooth fusion with Thai local culture, highlighting its unique performance techniques and subtle modifications in the energetic setting of Bangkok. It also critically evaluates the limits of the existing research and plots a route for further investigation with the goal of providing a more thorough and nuanced knowledge of Thai-Chinese lion dance culture. Readers are encouraged to explore the lion dance's significant significance and transforming influence within Bangkok's Thai-Chinese community through this scholarly undertaking, which will heighten their understanding of the ongoing appeal of this beloved cultural phenomenon. In order to preserve and innovate upon lion dance culture, this article promotes a balanced approach that embraces modernity to accommodate changing dynamics and sensibilities while still retaining historic components. It also emphasizes how important it is to promote intercultural dialogue and cooperation in order to advance Thai-Chinese lion dance tradition internationally. It is anticipated that with coordinated efforts in these areas, Thai-Chinese lion dance culture would continue to grow and spread, adding priceless pieces to the dynamic tapestry of international cultural exchange and legacy.

ДЕЯКІ ЕТНОКУЛЬТУРНІ ПСИХОЛОГІЧНІ ОСОБЛИВОСТІ КАЗАХІВ РЕСПУБЛІКИ КАЗАХСТАН

An objective understanding of the psychological characteristics of a person is impossible outside the ethnocultural context. At the same time, cultural processes are constantly changing under the influence of various factors. These changes in culture affect the way people live and perceive reality. This review examines some ethnocultural psychological features of the Kazakhs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, including historical and cultural determinants of the psychology of modern Kazakhs; features of national stereotypes; the influence of national psychology on the interaction and behavior of people in organizations, and the specifics of the implementation of managerial functions by leaders; and the influence of national psychology on the behavior of Kazakhs in conflict situations. To achieve these goals, the issues of historical memory of the Kazakh people, ethnogenesis, as well as other factors that characterize the Kazakh mentality, are studied. Thus, the mentality of the people is dominated by hospitality, respect for older relatives, eloquence, the nomad cult, and tolerance. These features represent only a small part of Kazakh culture, which may differ depending on the region, social context, and characteristics of each representative of the ethnic group. Understanding the ethnocultural characteristics of Kazakhs contributes to effective cross-cultural interaction, communication, successful business and work, mutual respect, and tolerance. Furthermore, nowadays the need to study the ethnocultural psychological features of the Kazakh ethnic group is emphasized considering the military invasion of Russia in Ukraine.

Navigating Unsettling Intercultural Issues of Volunteer Tourism: A Synthetic Review

In light of the burgeoning research and operational facets of international volunteer tourism, a discernible surge in the engagement of global volunteers for cross-cultural interactions within Global South communities has become increasingly evident. However, global volunteers encounter formidable challenges during their transition into and engagement with the local host community, stemming from a conspicuous paucity of intercultural awareness. This predicament poses a substantial impediment to the aspirational objective of effectuating a beneficial and constructive impact on cross-cultural interaction with the host community. With an intercultural sensitivity lens, this synthetic review examines the major issues surrounding cross-cultural understanding and interactive learning as well as discusses potential mitigating strategies that nurture intercultural sensitivity, making transition and participation more effective for the well-being of the host community. The review suggests that cultural stereotyping, ethnocentric behaviors, self-fulfilling behaviors of volunteers, and the absence of meaningful local participation in co-production of knowledge in volunteer tourism appear to be key factors affecting meaningful cross-cultural interactions and ethical behaviors. The proposed strategies including pre-departure training and orientation as educational discipline, aimed at facilitating cross-cultural immersion, assimilation and interaction, seem to be neglected in practice of volunteering tourism. This oversight undermines the effectiveness of these crucial initiatives in achieving their intended outcomes.

해외선교사의 상호문화역량 영향 요인

With the recent emphasis on the need for effective intercultural communication and the expansion of missionary activities across diverse cultural landscapes, understanding the dynamics of cross-cultural interactions has become pivotal. Previous research has highlighted various factors influencing intercultural competence, yet a comprehensive exploration of how human rights, social distance, and self-efficacy impact this competence in the context of missionary work has been limited. Therefore the purpose of this paper is to examine the factors that affect on intercultural competence of overseas missionaries focusing on human rights, social distance, and self-efficacy, and come up with how to enhance their intercultural competence based on the results of the study. A survey was conducted in which 93 overseas missionaries participated; SPSS ver. 25.0 was used for data analysis. The results revealed the following. First, Human rights, social distance, and self-efficacy of overseas missionaries showed a positive correlation with intercultural competence. Second, social distance and self-efficacy were statistically significant factors in intercultural competence. Third, the relative effects were self-efficacy and social distance in order. These results suggested the significance of designing a educational program and activities to enhance overseas missionaries’ self-efficacy and intercultural competence, and to reduce their social distance.

Language Politeness of Local Tour Guides in Orangutan Ecotourism Bukit Lawang, North Sumatra: A Sociopragmatic Study

Bukit Lawang is a conservation area for orangutans located in North Sumatra, Indonesia. This research aims to examine the politeness markers used by tour guides in this area. The qualitative research method with a phenomenological approach was employed. Data were collected through observation, field notes, audio video recordings, and interviews. The findings indicate that tour guides in Bukit Lawang utilize various politeness markers, including offering assistance, expressing agreement, making requests, giving commands, refusing, apologizing, providing advice, and giving compliments. Local tour guides in Bukit Lawang also employ diverse non-verbal politeness markers, such as smiling, in their interactions with tourists. Factors influencing the use of these language politeness markers include social harmony, the desire to please tourists, social and cultural norms, professionalism, and public image. In conclusion, this study provides a better understanding of the use of language politeness markers by tour guides in Bukit Lawang Orangutan Ecotourism. The research findings can serve as a basis for enhancing tourism services and enriching knowledge about cross-cultural interactions in the context of tourism.

CULTURAL TRANSFORMATION AND VALUE DEVELOPMENT IN RUSSIA

Since the first stages of society’s development, such phenomena as “culture” and “value” have been of particular importance, since value development necessarily leads to a change in culture, and a renewed culture forms new values in society. And currently, these phenomena are of research interest for many theoretical and applied developments of philosophers, cultural scientists, sociologists.
 At the end of the 20th century, the rapid development of digital technologies and their introduction into the daily lives of millions of people brought about global changes in culture and values. At a certain period of time, after the collapse of the USSR in the 1990s and early 2000s, Russia was guided by Western values, but since the late 2000s the situation has changed, legislative acts regulating cultural policy in the Russian Federation, including in the field of spiritual and moral values, have been adopted.
 Purpose. The article attempts to analyze the transformation of values in Russian society, summarize the state experience in regulating the sphere of culture and identify additional possible measures to preserve cultural and moral identity.
 Methods. The cultural philosophical approach has made it possible to trace the transformation of values in society in recent years. General logical research methods were used in the work. The legislative acts of the Russian Federation regulating the policy in the field of culture are considered.
 Results. Consideration of the philosophical and cultural approaches of various researchers to the renewal of culture and the transformation of values made it possible to clarify these processes and their interrelationship. Through the analysis of legislative acts and the results of opinion polls, the measures taken by the state to transform culture are evaluated.
 As a result of the consideration of the relationship between culture and values and the study of legislative acts, it has been revealed that in recent years the authorities have realized the need at the state level to review cultural policy and position the revival of national traditions and foundations. But the measures taken are still insufficient.
 Practical implications. The results of the research can be applied in any cultural, philosophical, social, humanitarian research, in the framework of educational and cognitive transformations, analysis of cross-cultural interactions.

CROSS-CULTURAL BUSINESS COMMUNICATION: A LINGUISTIC AND COGNITIVE PERSPECTIVE

In the modern global business sphere, the necessity for effective cross-cultural communication has become paramount. The article navigates the intricate interplay between language, cognition, and culture within the globalized business landscape. It offers a comprehensive view of the multifaceted complexities that underpin successful cross-cultural interactions, drawing from an extensive review of scholarly works and theoretical frameworks. Beginning with an exploration of culture’s influence on communication styles and norms, it proceeds to highlight the role of language in facilitating effective cross-cultural communication. By comparing managerial preferences across diverse cultural contexts, the study offers a nuanced understanding of cultural variations and their impact on negotiation tactics, team dynamics, and relationship-building within international business settings. Furthermore, the article sheds light on the cognitive dimensions of culture, emphasizing the need for adaptable training methodologies to bridge cultural gaps. It extends discussions to encompass the societal, political, and technological dimensions of cross-cultural interactions, underscoring the critical significance of understanding and respecting these differences to foster successful global partnerships. Through this holistic examination, the article reinforces the critical importance of linguistic and cognitive perspectives in navigating the complex web of cross-cultural communication. It provides pragmatic guidance for businesses and individuals engaged in international collaborations, highlighting the necessity for sensitivity, adaptability, and nuanced approaches to bridge diverse cultural contexts, ultimately shaping the future of successful global partnerships.

Exploring pre-service teachers’ experiences of engaging in sustainable environment: a Turkey-Italy eTwinning Project

The research initially delves into the outcomes of an international eTwinning project focused on heightening awareness among future primary school teachers about the causes and consequences of climate change within the framework of sustainable environmental education. Employing qualitative research methodologies, the investigation took the form of a case study. The participant group consisted of 13 pre-service teachers studying at Mersin and Balıkesir Universities in Turkey as well as the University of Palermo in Italy in the academic year 2021-2022. Researchers utilized a semi-structured interview format crafted specifically for the study. The objectives encompassed enhancing the understanding of pre-service teachers regarding sustainable environmental education, fostering their familiarity with eTwinning to enable cross-cultural interaction with other European pre-service teachers. Furthermore, emphasis was placed on elevating pre-service teachers' awareness about foreign language utilization and the integration of information and communication technology (ICT).

Language in international treaties: linguistic and cultural challenges in translating and implementing international multilingual treaties

Existing research on international human rights law has neglected the issues raised by the domestic translation of multilingual treaties and their implications for implementation. This article addresses that gap. It explores the challenges a central concept to an international multilingual treaty, the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), presented to States Parties when interpreting and translating the CRPD’s novel central concept of disability (Article 1) and the implications this had for the implementation of the CRPD. The CRPD has been described as representing a ‘paradigm shift’ in thinking about disability in international human rights law. At the heart of this shift is a new understanding of the concept of disability. It moves away from a traditional conceptualisation situated in a medical discourse, towards a concept situated in a social contextual discourse, which views persons with disabilities as subjects with human rights equal to all persons. Little research has explored how the CRPD’s central concept translates beyond the anglophone world. This article employs a distinctive approach to legal translation as a cross-cultural transfer or interaction of discourses. It develops a detailed case study of Cyprus based on primary empirical work (semi-structured interviews and document analysis), then compares the challenges faced by Cyprus with the experiences of Greece and Bulgaria, and then considers these in relation to Iceland’s experiences. The article reveals linguistic and cultural challenges and shows their significance for the implementation of the CRPD. It highlights the risks of domestic misinterpretation and mistranslation and identifies three critical factors to reduce these risks for international multilingual treaties. The article contributes to our understanding of the significance of domestic translation of international multilingual treaties and the implications of this for treaty implementation and helps to open a new research agenda around this.

Linguacultural Representations in Specialized Migration Discourse: A Lexicographic Perspective

In the last two decades increasing movements of people across countries, due to economic and social reasons, have produced high levels of exchanges among speakers of different languages where English is used globally as a lingua-franca (ELF). Moreover, migration flows across nation states (especially from non-Western countries to Western ones) have encouraged the movement of people, mainly of African and Asian origin, from students to skilled workers, who are often involved in English-mediated interactions where migrants’ native linguacultural background inevitably connects to the language spoken by the host community (e.g., in European countries), and at the same time shapes the use of English as a global means of interaction (Canagarajah, 2013). ELF cross-cultural interactions and translingual processes, naturally occurring in intercultural settings, are particularly remarkable, since they plainly show how ELF speakers, engaged in intercultural interactions, differently appropriate the English language, according to their own native linguacultural patterns, and to specific pragmalinguistic purposes and processes (Guido, 2012, 2018; Mauranen, 2018). This study will address the influence that lexical actualizations in authentic spoken encounters, as well as in written productions in specialized contexts have on the current role and function of English as an international language and which deserve coverage and consideration in lexicographic resources. Research studies on migration narratives, language mediation, cross-cultural conceptual representation and reception of traumatic events, where ELF lexical processes are often activated by the speakers involved, are particularly important to address the development of linguacultural representations that should be covered in dictionaries, lexicons and other lexicographic resources, especially online.

The role of written communication in international business relations: a cross-cultural perspective on business correspondence discourse

This academic article explores the enduring significance of written communication within the context of international business relations. Emphasizing its pivotal role, the study investigates how written communication serves as a linchpin for organizing information, molding positive company images, and facilitating effective cross-cultural interactions. While underscoring the advantages of written communication, the article carefully acknowledges inherent drawbacks, including potential delays and associated costs. The research contributes valuable insights into the nuanced dynamics of written communication in the international business landscape, shedding light on its multifaceted impacts and the importance of considering both its benefits and limitations.

Exploring the effects of cross-cultural collaborating on bilingual digital storytelling on students’ intercultural learning

ABSTRACT As intercultural learning has been increasingly regarded as essential in higher education, researchers have promoted it through integration of digital storytelling into cultural exchange activities. However, most studies have focused on the utilization of only one language whereas the effects of multilingual digital storytelling on students’ intercultural learning is understudied. To help bridge this gap, in this study, the effects of creating bilingual digital stories with students in an English-speaking country on the intercultural learning of students in a Chinese-speaking country were investigated. Data included students’ learning portfolios and reflective essays and were analyzed utilizing content analysis and matrix coding query. The findings revealed that the students became more critically aware of their own and others’ cultural diversity and sensitive to the uses of both English and Chinese language and multimedia resources for communication with people from different cultural backgrounds. They also reported multiple advantages associated with their cross-cultural online interactions, specifically in the domains of language acquisition and cultural understanding. However, they also highlighted challenges, notably the difficulties in coordinating meeting schedules and overcoming communication barriers. Implications and limitations are also discussed.

Cultural Diplomacy’s Effectiveness in Boosting Mutual Understanding

Movements of people and products across borders have always been accompanied by the flow of ideas and ways of life. This implicitly implies that intercultural encounters constantly take place. Cross-cultural interactions can go on smoothly if people understand each other’s differences, but misunderstandings are likely to happen when people are not familiar with each other’s cultural differences. Intercultural competence is needed so that people can avoid cultural misunderstandings. New players are gaining more ground internationally since international relations are no longer a purely political matter. Person-to-person encounters have become very important to strengthen relations among people who belong to different cultures. Cultural diplomacy has a great role to play in connecting nations and avoiding misunderstandings. Cultural diplomacy practices are designed for the mutual benefit of both participants. Hence, attraction and persuasion have become crucial concepts in contemporary international relations. Promoting a positive reputation overseas is not a new practice, but the ways and instruments once relied on have dramatically changed.

Effects of Intercultural Communication on Academic Achievement of Chinese Overseas Students in the UK

Nowadays, numerous Chinese students are struggling for admission to internationally renowned schools among English-speaking countries. In this case, an influencing factors on their academic performance, intercultural communication, is demonstrated under the consideraton of language education. This paper mainly focuses on the learning adjustment of international students from China in order to illustrate the helpfulness of intercultural communication towards academic records of Chinese students. By improving intercultural communicative competence, language proficiency and having more intercultural social contact could have a positive impact on the academic performace of Chinese students abroad. indicate that more frequent cross-cultural interaction could have a positive influence on the study of Chinese students abroad.

Research on the Influence of Douyin on Teenager in China

In today's dynamic digital landscape, the influence of social media on adolescents has emerged as a central focus of research, education, and parenting. Douyin, a prominent short-form video platform, has become a key player in shaping teenagers' online experiences. This qualitative study undertakes a comprehensive exploration of the intricate relationship between Douyin and teenagers, shedding light on both its advantages and challenges. With a thorough review of pertinent literature, this research investigates Douyin's multifaceted impact on teenagers' psychological, social, and educational spheres. The study is guided by specific research objectives, including the examination of how Douyin fosters global connections and cross-cultural interactions, serves as a platform for promoting social awareness, contributes to skill development and informal learning, shapes teenagers' engagement with current events, and explores potential negative consequences such as addiction, physical harm, mental health issues, privacy concerns, and exposure to inappropriate content. The findings underscore the dual nature of Douyin's influence on teenagers, elucidating its role as a catalyst for global connections and social change, while also highlighting potential pitfalls related to addiction, safety, and privacy. As Douyin continues to play a pivotal role in the digital lives of teenagers, this research serves as a timely reminder of the importance of responsible use and guidance from educators, parents, and guardians. It underscores the need for a balanced approach to harnessing the platform's benefits while safeguarding against its potential drawbacks, emphasizing the broader significance of navigating the digital world with mindfulness and intentionality.

Harmonizing Words and Worlds: The Fusion of Content and Language in Modern Education

Abstract In today’s globalized era, education stands at the nexus of profound transformation. As the globe shrinks and cross-cultural interactions become the norm rather than the exception, the traditional boundaries between language learning and content subjects are being dismantled. This union is not just a pedagogical trend, but a response to a world where interdisciplinarity and multilingualism are paramount. This article delves into the transformative approach of integrating content and language, spotlighting its significance, evolution, benefits and challenges, and the vast potential it holds in shaping the future of education worldwide. Through this exploration, we will uncover ways in which the successful marriage between content and language is pragmatically reshaping educational paradigms, offering students a richer, more holistic learning experience tailored for the complexities of the modern world.

Translation in Flux: Revisiting the Past, Envisioning the Future

Abstract Translation and translators are emerging as powerful catalysts for promoting vibrant cross-cultural interaction among individuals from different backgrounds. Commonly perceived as the process of converting content from one language to another, translation is a nuanced and multifaceted endeavor that transcends mere linguistic conversion. Translators act as adept mediators, deftly navigating the intricate web of diverse texts and cultures while shaping their uniquely insightful perspectives. This article explores the rich historical dimensions of translation, highlighting its deep connections to philosophical beliefs and socio-political dynamics. It also aims to enhance our understanding of the complex nature of this practice by dissecting various dichotomies in translation studies, including contrasting philosophical views of translation and divergent approaches to the art of translation. In today’s interconnected world, the role of the translator has become increasingly indispensable, underscoring that translation goes beyond mere words; it serves as a mirror that reflects the ever-evolving globalized landscape. To chart a path forward, we must recognize the importance of revisiting the past, drawing wisdom from history, and gaining valuable insights for the future.