Cultural Exchange Research Articles

Foreword to Journal of Humanities Special Issue: Normalising “incompleteness” through Sino-Malawi Cultural Exchanges

Foreword to Journal of Humanities Special Issue: Normalising “incompleteness” through Sino-Malawi Cultural Exchanges

Color Analysis of Brocade from the 4th to 8th Centuries Driven by Image-Based Matching Network Modeling

To achieve the color matching rules for the textiles discovered during Silk Road excavations between the 4th and 8th centuries, this research proposed an image-based matching network modeling method. The Silk Road facilitated trade and cultural exchange between the East and West, and the textiles found along the way depict the development of fabrics in a color scheme with great cultural significance. A total of 165 images with brocade patterns were collected from a book with a detailed description of the Western influences on textiles along the Silk Road. Two different clustering methods, including the K-means clustering method and octree quantization approach, were used to extract the primary and secondary colors. By combining the HSV color space with the PCCS color system, the color distribution was analyzed to discover the features of representative color patterns. The co-occurrence relationship of the auxiliary colors was explored using the Apriori algorithm, and a total of eight association rules were established. The results showed that the K-means clustering algorithm can show a better effect of color classification to obtain three primary colors and nine secondary colors. The matching mechanism with a visualized network model was also proposed, which showed that reddish-yellow tones are the main colors in the brocade patterns, and the light and soft tones separately account for 27% and 20%. Beige and brown are the most common colorways, with a confidence level of 47%. One style of brocade pattern was used to demonstrate different appearances within various color networks, which could be applied to 3D virtual fitting. This image-based matching network modeling approach makes the color matching schemes visible, and can assist fashion design with fabric features influenced by historical and cultural development.

Revisiting directionality in China's “outward translation”

AbstractDirectionality in translation traditionally refers to whether translation occurs from the translator's second language into their first or vice versa. This paper seeks to broaden the concept of directionality in translation by examining China's “outward translation” (i.e., the translation of works for readers outside of China), and goes beyond linguistic inquiries to encompass multifaceted dimensions related to global cultural exchange. By exploring outward translation within the Chinese context, this study contends that research on directionality should transcend mere linguistic considerations and embrace a more comprehensive analysis. Drawing insights from the Chinese perspective and employing a spatial conceptualization, this paper posits that outward translation operates within a dialogical space characterized by mutual exchange and engagement between the source culture and the target culture. Within this dynamic space, translation agents (including translators, publishers, patrons, and so on) from both source and target cultures interact, fostering reciprocal relationships and facilitating cultural dialogue. In conclusion, the paper argues that outward translation should be better defined and understood as an area of research with the potential to address the imbalanced global translation flows from English to other less‐translated languages, thereby facilitating more diverse and inclusive global knowledge production and dissemination.

“As a Muslim…”: on the importance of intercultural responsibility in transnational cultural exchanges

Abstract Cultural exchange is increasingly becoming an essential activity of higher education as the world continues to experience widespread ethnocentrism because of war, migration, political provocation, and nationalism. Research in areas related to cultural exchange have also increased with the rise of teacher and student mobility, leading to an exciting body of scholarship. Several aspects of intercultural communication, however, remain under-researched in the study of cultural exchange. One such example is intercultural responsibility. The current study adds to this body of work by investigating how Muslim students that were part of a cultural exchange program in Thailand used notions of intercultural responsibility to make sense of their encounters and identities. The findings show that national and religious identities are both barriers to, and resources for, intercultural communication in general, and the social practices of Muslim students in particular. Intercultural responsibility is important to scholars and educators, as it can empower students to become agentive in their participation in intercultural communication, allowing them to reflect on and utilize their linguistic, cultural, and historical repertoire when interacting with individuals and communities that do not share their same cultural traditions and practices.

National Branding and Cultural Diplomacy

National Branding and Cultural Diplomacy

Strategi Komunikasi Pendidikan untuk Meningkatkan Kualitas Pendidikan di Era Gen Z

This study discusses educational communication strategies to improve the quality of education in the Generation Z era, which requires a communication approach that suits the unique characteristics influenced by technology. Using a qualitative approach and literature analysis, the research aims to identify effective educational communication strategies for Generation Z. Key findings include visual preferences, personalization, interactivity, problem-based learning, immersive technology, digital mentoring, flexibility, and social responsibility. Recommended strategies include visual content, adaptive learning, online discussions, VR/AR, digital mentoring, mobile learning, social projects, gamification, and multi-platform communication. It is important to understand the characteristics of Generation Z and adapt in relevant and effective ways, as well as create education that is technologically advanced and of great value. Implementation suggestions include digital teacher training, online cultural diplomacy, and educational media policies. This research provides valuable guidance for the development of educational strategies that suit the needs of Z Generation.

Research on the Cultural Inheritance and Information Protection of Qinhuai Lanterns from the Perspective of Intangible Cultural Heritage

Qinhuai lanterns are a characteristic cultural activity in Nanjing and a well-known intangible cultural heritage in China, this study deeply analyzes the cultural value of Qinhuai lanterns from the perspective of intangible cultural heritage, and discusses its cultural inheritance and information protection strategy in the context of the new era. Through a detailed analysis of the historical, artistic, social, and educational values of Qinhuai lanterns, this paper proposes protection measures such as the development of inheritance and promotion platforms, the production of film and television media works, the establishment of digital resource libraries, and the strengthening of international cultural exchanges. As a treasure of traditional Chinese culture, the inheritance and protection of Qinhuai lanterns are of great significance for maintaining cultural diversity, promoting social development and enhancing national self-confidence. The purpose of this paper is to provide theoretical support and practical guidance for the protection and development of Qinhuai lanterns, and to promote their new vitality and vitality in the context of the new era.

Practices of Cultural Exchange Special Education Teachers on Teacher Buddy System: A Phenomenological Study

This comprehensive study examines the practices of the Teacher Buddy System for Cultural Exchange Special Education Teachers, who play a crucial role in addressing the diverse needs of students with disabilities. The system provides a valuable platform for Filipino special education teachers to engage in peer-to-peer support and collaboration with their international counterparts, allowing them to gain insights into international best practices and approaches. Employing a phenomenological research design, the study gathers data through interviews to understand how the Teacher Buddy System influences participants' professional development, cultural competence, and teaching methodologies. It also explores the perceived benefits and challenges experienced by Filipino Special Education Teachers in the Cultural Exchange program. Preliminary findings reveal that the Teacher Buddy System significantly enhances cultural understanding, fosters effective teaching practices, and creates a robust support network among special education teachers. However, challenges related to communication and limited resources persist. The implications of this study are considerable, providing insights into improving the experiences of Cultural Exchange Special Education Teachers and the overall effectiveness of the Teacher Buddy System. The findings underscore the potential of cross-cultural collaboration to enrich mentoring practices, ultimately benefiting students with diverse learning needs. The study concludes with recommendations aimed at strengthening the Teacher Buddy System's sustainability and impact, promoting continuous professional growth, and enhancing cultural competence among Cultural Exchange Filipino special education teachers, thereby supporting their critical role in the education system.

The Artistic Characteristics of Chinese Impressionist Painter Wu Guanzhong

This study aims to explore the artistic characteristics of Chinese Impressionist painter Wu Guanzhong. By combing through Wu Guanzhong's artistic experience, it analyzes the evolution of his painting style and its unique expression in the fusion of Chinese and Western art. The study provides an in-depth analysis of Wu Guanzhong's works in terms of subject matter, materials, composition, color, brushwork and other aspects, revealing his unique artistic language and his contribution to the development of modern Chinese painting. At the same time, this study combines literature review and case studies to explore the impact of Wu Guanzhong's art on contemporary Chinese art education, and suggests how to inherit and innovate Chinese national art in the contemporary context. This study provides new perspectives for understanding Wu Guanzhong's artistic achievements and his position in cultural exchanges, and offers useful references for the future development of Chinese art.

Research on Social and Cultural Stereotypes of Chinese Men in Hollywood Films: A Case Study of "The Mask of Fu Manchu"

To better penetrate the international market and gain a wider international audience, Hollywood has made films with rich and varied themes based on the cultures of various countries. Given China's rich cultural heritage and vast market, Hollywood has made many films set in China t open up the Chinese market and carry out cultural exchanges between China and the West. However, due to the misunderstanding between cultures, there are prejudices and stereotypes of Chinese men's society and culture in Hollywood films. This study applies the case study method in the qualitative research method and takes〈The Mask of Fu Manchu〉 film as a case study to systematically analyze Fu Manchu's external characteristics such as gender, t, and form, as well as internal characteristics such as behaviors and personalities. It is found that the Chinese male socio-cultural symbols in the film are oversimplified and culturally misinterpreted, leaving the audience with a stereotypical impression of cultural homogeneity. Based on this, this study explores multiple perspectives from history, culture, and art to find ways to eliminate stereotypes of Chinese men in Hollywood films, promote producers' understanding of different cultures, build a positive image of China, and provide a path for viewers to correctly understand Chinese culture.

The Manuscript Source of Philippe II d'Orléans's Cantates françaises: A New Light on Early Eighteenth-Century Transnational Networks of Connoisseurship and Collecting

AbstractThe rediscovery of a unicum manuscript source of cantates françaises by Philippe II d'Orléans in the Württembergische Landesbibliothek, Stuttgart, provokes a re-evaluation of not only the provenance of the collection to which it belongs, but also the role played by diplomacy, sociability and cultural exchange in the history of the cantate française. The manuscript's contents all reflect Philippe's use of international connections to acquire music and engage musicians in the period 1701–1706. The manuscript forms part of a corpus of French scores that belonged to Marie-Thérèse de Lannoy de La Motterie, an aristocratic amateur harpsichordist with an interest in both French and Italian music, and in cantates. As wife of Joseph Lothar von Königsegg und Rothenfels, representative of the Austrian emperor to Philippe, then regent of France, she was engaged in the cultural life of Paris during the period 1717–1719, not only acquiring cantate prints but also a copy of Philippe's own works in the genre. Her collection reflects both her personal interests and her diplomatic cultivation of the social circles around Philippe in which music connoisseurship was an important skill. The manuscript thus highlights the important role played in the international transmission of cantates françaises by diplomatic and familial connections of noble amateurs, especially those curious about musical developments beyond their own regional practices.

The Pangsau Pass: Historical, Cultural, And Geopolitical Dimensions Of Border Construction Between Arunachal Pradesh And Myanmar

The Pangsau Pass, straddling the border between Arunachal Pradesh (India) and Myanmar, has historically functioned as a critical node for trade, cultural exchange, and geopolitical strategies. This paper delves into the pass’s historical importance, its role in cultural interactions, and the political dynamics that have shaped its significance. The study explores the pass's use as a trade route and cultural conduit prior to and following British colonial interventions. It further examines the impacts of colonial policies, including the Treaty of Yandabo and the Simla Convention, on regional socio-cultural landscapes. Additionally, the paper addresses the effects of modern border management and infrastructure developments, highlighting the resilience of indigenous communities and the continuing relevance of historical routes in current geopolitical contexts.

Gender Wealth Gap in the USA’s Afrobeats Scene

The United States has been a space for global musical transnational encounters among African-descended peoples, with various artists collaborating. These collaborations have blossomed with the advent of Afrobeats—a loose term describing the contemporary transatlantic sound of popular African music. Although there are male and female Afrobeats performers on the African continent, this cultural exchange occurs more often between male artists and U.S. musicians. Because male artists are mostly invited for live performances, their visibility puts them in a position to perform with and collaborate with U.S. artists. As a result, male artists get nominations for global awards such as the Grammys and accumulate more wealth. For female artists, the result is less visibility and wealth. Using Tiwa Savage and Burna Boy—two Afrobeats giants—as case studies, this essay examines the factors that limit Tiwa, a female performer, from achieving the same wealth as her male counterpart, Burna Boy. Specifically, this study analyzes the sonic and semiotic representations in their popular music videos, Tiwa’s “Koroba” and Burna Boy’s “On the Low,” to understand why Burna Boy might have the edge over Tiwa. Their music and career trajectories shed light on how capitalism and sociopolitical issues, including colorism, might contribute to the gender wealth disparities between male and female Afrobeats performers.

A Study on the English Translation of Chinese-specific Words from the Perspective of Transknowletology—Taking the English Version of Work Government Report (2024) as an Example

The Government Work Report is rich in Chinese-specific terms across various fields like economy, culture and politic, each carrying significant background knowledge. Transknowletology studies on translating these culturally and contextually specific terms while preserving their original meaning. This paper analyzes the translation of Chinese-specific words in the 2024 English version of the Government Work Report through the lens of Transknowletology. It examines political, ecological, and cultural aspects to address translation issues and proposes strategies such as literal translation, free translation, amplification. The goal is to enhance understanding of Chinese-English differences, improve cultural exchanges, and contribute empirical insights to Transknowletology research.

Light of Egypt, Shining from Within: The Tercero Cathecismo (1635), Fr. Gregorio de Movilla, and the Timucua from La Florida

Abstract: This article focuses on a little-known Timucua visual catechism, the Tercero Cathecismo , which appeared in a 1635 imprint co-authored by the Franciscan Gregorio de Movilla and unacknowledged Indigenous linguists. The Tercero Cathecismo provides a unique lens through which to explore a series of cultural exchanges and negotiations that highlights the complexities, heterogeneities, and subtleties of the Indigenous-missionary experience during the seventeenth century in La Florida. The Tercero Cathecismo is a particularly engaging instance of this experience because it comprises a synthetic, multilayered hieroglyph image explicitly produced for and with the Timucuas in mind. Designed to be traced in the sand, the earth, or on any available piece of paper, this highly reproducible image incorporates European iconographic codes that blend with Native American ones, although in a context of unequal relationships of power. The encoding capaciousness of the hieroglyph enabled primal images from both the European and the Native American worlds to come together. Consequently, its complexity, power, and importance as a vibrant field of cultural crossings is best appraised when approached from a multifocal, multidisciplinary perspective, in which both sides are considered, even if the Timucua side can only be cautiously approached as a hypothesis.

Reflect on the Impact of Music in the New Era

In the context of the rapid progress of the times, music is in a continuous state of evolution and innovation. The music of the new era, with its unique style and vivid expression, has exerted a profound and far-reaching impact on our lives. This paper conducts in-depth reflection on the influence of music in the new era on personal emotions, social culture, and artistic development. By analyzing the characteristics and development trends of music in the new era, it delves into its positive role in fulfilling people’s emotional needs, promoting cultural exchanges, and driving artistic innovation. At the same time, it also examines the potential issues such as excessive commercialization and aesthetic simplification. Finally, it puts forward prospects for the future development of music in the new era, emphasizing that while maintaining innovation, we should attach great importance to the diversity and rich cultural connotation of music to ensure its sustainable and healthy development.

북한지역 비파형동검문화의 확산과 그 배경 - 기후·금속문명·교류 관점에서

It is necessary to utilize the results of research studies in neighboring regions for research on the Mandolin-shaped Bronze Daggers culture in North Korea. changes in climate and exchange relations identified in the process of forming and spreading the 'metal civilization', represented by the Mandolin-shaped Bronze Daggers culture, are noted as factors that cause cultural change. In particular, the climate cold in Northeast Asia is drawing attention as a breakthrough in the formation of the Mandolin-shaped Bronze Daggers culture and a change to the Slender Bronze Daggers culture. In the North Korean region, the regional characteristics of the South and the North are confirmed based on the Cheongcheon River, respectively, and the regional characteristics of the East and the West are highlighted based on the central mountainous region. Considering the sort and type of bronze artifacts and the ratio of alloy components, it can be seen that northwestern Korea and northeast Korea had a differentiated network or interaction due to their strong connection to Liaodong and Jilin, respectively. In the North Korean region, internal and external interactions increase, and exchange relations are further strengthened after the spread of the Zhengjiawazi Assemblage (6th~5th B.C.E). Due to the spread of the Zhengjiawazi Assemblage, the metal culture in North Korea changes from the Liaodong style to the Liaoxi (or Liaozhong) style, and accordingly, the exchange and ideological system of he Mandolin-shaped Bronze Daggers culture is also changed. The rapid increase of Liaozhong style’s bronze artifacts such as the bronze daggers and bronze mirrors is closely related to the growth of polity such as 'Gojoseon'.

Linguistic borrowings in trade terminologies: an analysis of ancient Indian and Egyptian languages from 3300 BCE to 500 CE

The research delves into the intricate web of linguistic borrowings in trade terminologies between Ancient Indian languages (Sanskrit, Prakrit) and Egyptian languages (Ancient Egyptian Hieroglyphs, Demotic script) spanning from approximately 3300 BCE to 500 CE. Through a meticulous analysis of selected literary texts and inscriptions, including the Hathigumpha Inscription, Rudradaman I Inscription, Junagadh Rock Inscriptions, Nasik Cave Inscriptions, Rosetta Stone, Satirical Papyrus, and Turin Taxation Papyrus, the study unravels the linguistic evolution and cultural exchanges embedded within ancient trade networks. Contextualizing these linguistic borrowings within the historical framework of trade routes, maritime activities, and economic exchanges, the research sheds light on the nuances of communication and adaptation in commercial interactions. By employing rigorous research methodologies and comparative studies, the findings offer a comprehensive understanding of how language served as a bridge for commerce, diplomacy, and cultural exchange between these ancient civilizations. This study not only contributes to the fields of linguistic history and ancient trade studies but also offers valuable insights into the dynamic interplay of language, trade, and cultural connectivity in the ancient world.

The effects of video-based simulation in Collaborative Learning in a Student-led Global Classroom (CLSGC) program on non-technical skills among undergraduate nursing students in three regions: A mixed-methods study

BackgroundGlobal nursing shortages and increasing cultural diversity in healthcare necessitate the development of culturally sensitive nurses. Intercultural learning and exchange programs have been shown to enhance nursing students' intercultural knowledge, cultural awareness, and sensitivity. However, non-technical skills such as communication, leadership, and teamwork are less emphasized in existing programs, despite their importance in facilitating adaptation to clinical contexts and ensuring patient safety across different ethnic groups. ObjectiveThis study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a Collaborative Learning in a Student-led Global Classroom (CLSGC) program that employs video-based learning and student-led debriefings to enhance non-technical skills, and to explore the experiences of undergraduate nursing student participants from three different regions. MethodsSeventy-eight nursing students from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Malmo University, and La Trobe University participated in the program. The program included three webinars on teamwork, communication skills, and leadership, facilitated through student-led discussions and video simulations. Data were collected using the Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety Teamwork Attitudes Questionnaire, and qualitative methods including focus groups and reflective journals. A paired t-test and manifest content analysis were used to analyze the quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. ResultsThe quantitative results indicated significant improvements in the students' attitudes towards teamwork, communication, and leadership. The qualitative data shed light on the students' learning experiences, highlighting the value of cultural exchanges in exploring the importance of non-technical skills in practice, and the effectiveness of the program structure. ConclusionsThe CLSGC program effectively improved nursing students' non-technical skills and enriched their clinical practice. Integrating simulation-based learning and student-led debriefing sessions to enhance nursing students' knowledge and attitudes towards teamwork, communication, and leadership is recommended in nursing education. Continuous exposure to simulation should be part of nursing education to reinforce the significance of non-technical skills in practice.

Promoting Vietnamese Cultural Values in the Current Context

Promoting Vietnamese cultural values in the current context is important for preserving national identity and fostering sustainable development. In globalization and cultural exchange, actively and effectively promoting traditional cultural values is essential. Vietnamese culture is the soul of the nation, an undying vitality, and the source of strength that enables our people to stand firm and resilient in the face of all difficulties, natural disasters, wars, and eras. Vietnamese culture is both a product and a driving force in our nation's efforts to protect its sovereignty and resist invasions throughout thousands of years of history. Enhancing the value of cultural preservation is of immense importance in the new era. This article clarifies the distinctive values and significance of Vietnamese cultural preservation in the current mission of building and defending the nation.