Cultural Diversity Research Articles

Educators’ Subjectivities in Localising Global Citizenship Education: A Chinese Case

ABSTRACT Global citizenship education (GCE) encounters epistemic barriers in curriculum localisation, which, from a semiotic perspective, are related to educators’ subjectivation process. By choosing a Chinese case based on six secondary schools on the east coast of China, this paper builds on previous efforts to investigate how principals’ (n = 6) and teachers’ (n = 10) subjectivation process could influence their comprehension of the concept of GCE. The focus of this paper is on distinguishing the subjectivities in participants’ interviews that related to their perceptions and planning of the curriculum. The findings of the study included qualitative feedback, which was later categorised into three themes: the communitarian subjectivity, the hybrid subjectivity and the assimilated subjectivity. The three forms of subjectivity exposed the vulnerability inherent in participants’ efforts to localize GCE. This study demonstrated a specific epistemic condition that challenges the prevailing discourse, suggesting that defending traditional culture does not always serve the purpose of promoting cultural diversity on a global scale.

Current holistic admission review practices of U.S. doctor of physical therapy programs

BackgroundThe social, cultural, and ethnic diversity of healthcare workers should match that of the U.S. population to improve health outcomes and decrease health disparities. The population’s diversity is increasing, though many health care professions lack diversity in their academic programs. The holistic admissions (HA) process considers an applicant’s unique experiences, achievements, and traits in addition to academic metrics when making admission decisions. HA has been shown to be an effective strategy to increase cohort diversity by considering the whole person instead of focusing on academic metrics.PurposeThis study explored the extent to which U.S. Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs are implementing HA in their admissions process to diversify their admitted cohorts. The study further examined how programs defined diversity.MethodsUsing a cross-sectional, descriptive research design, 272 accredited DPT programs were invited to complete an online survey to collect data on admissions practices. Cross-tabulation was used to analyze coded responses. Inductive thematic analysis was used for open-ended responses.ResultsThirty-five (71.4%) of the 52 respondents reported they were currently or were planning to use HA in their respective DPT program. Most respondents (88.6%) reported a positive experience, including an increase in student cohort diversity without a decrease in graduation rate. Four themes emerged as the definition of diversity: ethnicity (i.e., under-represented minorities), other demographics, life experiences, and challenges overcome.ConclusionAlthough this study represents a sample of DPT programs, the data show most programs using HA and have experienced increased diversity without a risk to academic performance.

Systematic literature review on the nexus of food waste, food loss and cultural background

PurposeThe present paper aims to reveal how different cultures, as reflected by cultural norms, traditions, and social expectations, influence food waste behaviour in different regions of the world.Design/methodology/approachA systematic multifaceted literature review was employed as a main research tool.FindingsThe focal role of education and awareness campaigns in reducing household food waste and promoting responsible food consumption behaviours is revealed. The importance of guilt, behavioural control, negative attitudes towards leftovers, and social norms are among the most important factors predicting intentions to reduce food waste. Cultural beliefs significantly shape food attitudes and waste. Tailoring sustainable practices to traditions helps to ensure food security. Embracing cultural diversity can lead to the development of effective and sustainable food consumption patterns across different parts of the world.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper fully devoted to revealing how different cultural backgrounds shape food consumption habits and which marketing strategies aiming to nudge positive changes in responsible food consumption are preferred in different cultural contexts.

Linguistic Diversity

Linguistic diversity is generally perceived as declining, although the number of languages in the world, as counted by catalogues such as Ethnologue, is actually increasing year on year. This paper will consider what is meant by linguistic diversity, how it is measured and valued, why it is seen as under threat, why this matters, and to whom. The paper will trace how the concept of linguistic diversity, and discourses surrounding it, have developed over the last few decades: exploring, for example, parallels that have been drawn between language, cultural and biological diversity, and more recently health and well-being. The paper will also explore the different conceptions and reactions of linguists, policymakers, and linguistic communities: how linguistic resources are valued; what the impact is of their potential loss for academia, societies, and individuals; and how it is addressed by these various actors. The paper will conclude by considering broader implications of viewing linguistic diversity through a social lens, especially in relation to the UNESCO Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022–2032) and discourses and rhetorics about linguistic diversity.

The Transformative Role of 3D Culture Models in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Research

Advancements in cell culturing techniques have allowed the development of three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models sourced directly from patients’ tissues and tumors, faithfully replicating the native tissue environment. These models provide a more clinically relevant platform for studying disease progression and treatment responses compared to traditional two-dimensional (2D) models. Patient-derived organoids (PDOs) and patient-derived xenograft organoids (PDXOs) emerge as innovative 3D cancer models capable of accurately mimicking the tumor’s unique features, enhancing our understanding of tumor complexities, and predicting clinical outcomes. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) poses significant clinical challenges due to its aggressive nature, propensity for early metastasis, and limited treatment options. TNBC PDOs and PDXOs have significantly contributed to the comprehension of TNBC, providing novel insights into its underlying mechanism and identifying potential therapeutic targets. This review explores the transformative role of various 3D cancer models in elucidating TNBC pathogenesis and guiding novel therapeutic strategies. It also provides an overview of diverse 3D cell culture models, derived from cell lines and tumors, highlighting their advantages and culturing challenges. Finally, it delves into live-cell imaging techniques, endpoint assays, and alternative cell culture media and methodologies, such as scaffold-free and scaffold-based systems, essential for advancing 3D cancer model research and development.

The Creation of Loneliness in Contemporary Chinese Ink Painting - Revelation from Harald Sohlberg's Paintings

This research employs methods of iconography analysis to dissect the visual representation of loneliness in the paintings of Harald Sohlberg, aiming to inspire in the creation of loneliness within Contemporary Chinese ink painting. The article unfolds by delving into Sohlberg's painting style, cultural origins, and the profound meanings embedded within his works, subsequently exploring the revelations of Sohlberg's paintings for contemporary Chinese ink painting, and thereby elucidating the author's creation. By providing novel perspectives and methodologies, this paper contributes to the realm of cross-cultural research in the arts, demonstrating the existence of commonalities diverse backgrounds, cultures, and artistic genres, with the aspiration of fostering mutual understanding and exchange across different cultures and nations. Furthermore, this article serves to inspire painters in their creations and aids in enhancing the audience's appreciation and aesthetic sensibilities towards painting.

Deep Learning-Based De-blurring/Denoising of Indian Heritage Images

Using the deep learning algorithms, our method comes up with the process that impedes the conservation and restores the Indian heritage images, while dealing with the obstacles like blur, noise, and obscurity of the images. In this case, neural networks that are developed themselves are used to carry out the process of denoising and reconstruction of these images but also contain intricate object detection capabilities. These multi-faceted actions, therefore, help to preserve the historically relevant aspects and make the Indian cultural heritage more colorful and accessible to the outside world. In addition, not only are we protecting them but we are also transforming them into the best images that represent India's past. Through application of deep learning principles to indigenous materials, we come up with powerful educational tools that make a deep impact in the community, promoting a profound appreciation for India's cultural heritage. By means of careful experimentation and stringent testing, we establish that the specified methodology is indeed workable in conservation applications as it has been shown to be effective. This way, we make it clear that the cultural heritage of India is not only treasures of the ancient time but the living legacy, which is welcoming for everyone and contributes to the cultural diversity and pride.

A concept analysis of transcultural in nursing practices

Background: Differences in interpreting the term ‘transcultural’ in nursing practice need to be addressed. Inappropriate terminology in the nursing practice environment may impact the quality of health care. Objective: The aim of this research is to identify the meaning of transcultural in concepts and theories and its relationship to the practice of the nursing profession. Methods: This paper was designed for Walker and Avant concept analysis. Reputable articles from indexing databases were used for review. “Transcultural” AND “Transcultural Nursing Practice” were the two key concepts used in the literature search. The inclusion criteria for articles to be retrieved were determined by the authors with high rigor. Then, an organizing framework was formulated using Walker and Avant’s conceptual analysis method. Results: Antecedents, attributes, and consequences are inferred from the keywords or sentences in each article. The antecedents in this study include immigrants, acculturation, immigration, emigration, cultural diversity, cultural competence, interpersonal caring, transcultural nursing, and cross-cultural comparisons. The attributes in this study encompass cultural exchange, overcoming obstacles, research development, changes to standards and operating procedures. The consequences of the transcultural concept for nursing practice include its impact on organizations, patients/clients, and nurses. Conclusions: We suggest that healthcare professional thoroughly comprehend transcultural concepts in nursing practice in order to effectively apply transcultural approaches in nursing practice. This is one way to improve the quality of healthcare services.

A Study on Managing Cultural Diversity and Governance Process in the Education Sector

Background of the study: The domain of education employs people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Each faculty member has their distinct characteristics and personality traits making it challenging for the Human resource department to keep them all content and satisfied with their work and fellow members under one roof. Aim/Purpose: This study aims to investigate the application of governance for managing cultural diversity among faculty members for achieving sustainable human resource management in Community Colleges. Methodology: A thorough investigation of the conceptual and empirical literature available in the domain has helped create a strong foundation for the research. With the help of an extensive review of the literature, the relationship between diversity management and the governance process among faculty members is reviewed. Findings: Finally, the study concludes with the significance of the relationship between diversity management and the governance process among faculty members to achieve sustainable human resource management in the education sector. Results: Reviewing the correlation between diversity management and the governance process among faculty members solves the problems of communication and interaction among employees having diverse backgrounds. Practical, Research & Social Implications: The paper highlights the need for suitable management of diversity in community colleges which can lead to broader and more impelling implications for the policy makers and the colleges to adopt more welcoming and inclusive principles to cater to all needs and make diversity richer and a strong suit. Originality/value: Sustainable human resource management leads to greater productivity among employees and sustainability for the organization. In the contemporary world where competition is vast, there is a need to maintain internal harmony and balance. Thus, our research provides an in-depth analysis of the myriad ways adopted by the education sector for diversity management and practices and governance process.

What is still at stake in the Gran Chaco? Social-ecological impacts of alternative land-system futures in a global deforestation hotspot

Commodity agriculture continues to spread into tropical dry forests globally, eroding their social-ecological integrity. Understanding where deforestation frontiers expand, and which impacts this process triggers, is thus important for sustainability planning. We reconstructed past land-system change (1985–2015) and simulated alternative land-system futures (2015–2045) for the Gran Chaco, a 1.1 million km2 global deforestation hotspot with high biological and cultural diversity. We co-developed nine plausible future land-system scenarios, consisting of three contrasting policy narratives (Agribusiness, Ecomodernism, and Integration) and three agricultural expansion rates (high, medium, and low). We assessed the social-ecological impacts of our scenarios by comparing them with current biodiversity, carbon density, and areas used by forest-dependent people. Our analyses revealed four major insights. First, intensified agriculture and mosaics of agriculture and remaining natural vegetation have replaced large swaths of woodland since 1985. Second, simulated land-system futures until 2045 revealed potential hotspots of natural vegetation loss (e.g. western and southern Argentinian Chaco, western Paraguayan Chaco), both due to the continued expansion of existing agricultural frontiers and the emergence of new ones. Third, the strongest social-ecological impacts were consistently connected to the Agribusiness scenarios, while impacts were lower for the Ecomodernism and Integration scenarios. Scenarios based on our Integration narrative led to lower social impacts, while Ecomodernism had lower ecological impacts. Fourth, comparing recent land change with our simulations showed that 10% of the Chaco is on a pathway consistent with our Agribusiness narrative, associated with adverse social-ecological impacts. Our results highlight that much is still at stake in the Chaco. Stricter land-use and conservation planning are urgently needed to avoid adverse social-ecological outcomes, and our results charting the option space of plausible land-system futures can support such planning.

Collaborative Online International Learning in Physiology: A Case Study.

Internationalisation in higher education is essential, and although active learning methodologies are increasing and allow students to develop transversal skills, most still have a very local scope. In this context, the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) methodology is an interesting approach to benefit the students' development. It consists of an online program that involves creating multicultural teams to develop a specific learning project. Although this methodology is expanding, its use in physiology is still scarce. This paper aims to show an example of applying COIL methodology in physiology topics to enhance higher-education students' innovation and business skills. Our example project developed a sports-assessment service concept focused on physiology and biomechanics assessments. The program involved teams from Brazil, Germany, and Spain, comprising undergraduate and master students. Over seven weeks, these teams, mentored by professors and researchers, engaged in workshops covering COIL methodology, business model design, executive summary planning, economic analyses, and communication techniques. Key outcomes included learning new concepts, developing soft skills, building confidence in innovative solution proposals, and experiencing diverse cultures. Challenges faced were language barriers, scheduling, task complexity, and logistical issues. This experience confirms the effectiveness of incorporating programs using COIL methodology into educational curriculums. Doing so exposes physiology students to innovation, entrepreneurship, and business creation while strengthening their professional connections and opening up post-graduation opportunities.

Amplifying informal science learning: rethinking research, design, and engagement

An intriguing book on informal science learning in all its cultural and geographic diversity, deftly balancing theory, practice and the wondrous space in-between.

CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED BY THE POLICE OFFICERS IN CRIME PREVENTION IN TABUK CITY, KALINGA

This study generally determined the challenges encountered by police officers in crime prevention in Tabuk City, Kalinga. The study specifically aimed to determine the specific challenges faced by police officers in effectively preventing crime regarding personal, family, and community relations and resources. Additionally, it sought to investigate the coping mechanisms of police officers to manage the challenges associated with their role in crime prevention. The study used a qualitative-narrative research design, and an interview guide was used to collect the data. The researcher used purposive sampling to select seven participants based on the specific characteristics or criteria relevant to the research questions. Through the use of inductive thematic analysis to analyze the qualitative data, the result revealed that police officers had encountered challenges during the implementation of crime prevention. It includes the impact of duty and personal relationships, threats and attacks, and cultural sensitivity and diversity regarding personal obstacles. Lack of time, high risk and stress, role modeling, and guidance regarding family challenges. Maximum tolerance, community engagement, concealment of criminals, and wrong perception regarding community challenges. Resource challenges require more funds and adequate equipment and vehicles. However, through proactive coping mechanisms, police officers attempted to overcome these obstacles. It concluded that the difficulties encountered by police officers in effectively preventing crime were complex and multifaceted, and they required a holistic approach that prioritized officers' well-being and could better fulfill their mission of promoting public safety. KEYWORDS: Problem encountered, coping mechanism, personal and family challenges, community and resources challenges, police officers

Expatriate academics’ adjustment experience at a higher education institution in South Africa

Orientation: Expatriate academics in higher education institutions (HEIs) face several socio-cultural and integration challenges that significantly influence their adjustment. Insufficient support and a non-conducive environment hamper their well-being.Research purpose: This study aims to describe the adjustment experiences of expatriate academics at a HEI in South Africa. Recommendations are made towards creating an enabling environment in which expatriate academics can better facilitate adjustment.Motivation for the study: This study aimed to compete globally, HEIs appoint international academics with scarce skills to enhance their teaching, learning, and research. Expatriate academics are driven by push and pull factors when accepting international opportunities. Entering an unfamiliar environment, implies disruption on a psychosocial, socio-economic and job adjustment level, and if not well-supported results in maladjustment affecting expatriate well-being and job performance.Research design, approach and method: An interpretive, qualitative approach was adopted. Five purposively selected expatriate academics partook in semi-structured interviews and the data were analysed through content analysis.Main findings: A lack of employer support and cultural diversity factors impede participants’ ability to adjust at work and in the community. Having grit and being resourceful in overcoming challenges resulted in better adjustment.Practical/managerial implications: Facilitating collaborative relationships between expatriates and host country nationals, and using supportive services and resources will enable better adjustment.Contribution/value-add: Expatriate academics share their lived experiences of what hindered their adjustment and several recommendations are made to HEIs and foreign academics towards creating an enabling environment promoting adjustment.

Actitudes lingüísticas de guanacastecos hacia la variedad lingüística del español del Valle Central

In this research paper, a study based on linguistic behaviors present in Guanacaste speakers has been performed. The study addresses the linguistic varieties of Spanish in the Central Valle of a student sample from the National University of Costa Rica.The main objective is to analyze the linguistic behaviors of a group of Guanacaste speakers towards the linguistic varieties of Spanish within Central Valle. To accomplish this objective, a five-level Likert scale questionnaire is being proposed as the instrument to collect data on linguistic behaviors from Spanish from Central Valle. Moreover, in the same questionnaire, there have been included three open questions. This qualitative approach is being used to collect valuable information to complement the statistical data. Subsequently, the information obtained from the questionnaires is analyzed using statistical tools such as comparative charts and graphs. The objective would be to determine the linguistic behaviors of Guanacaste students from Chorotega and Omar Dengo’s National University sites. Regarding the results, the majority of the students interviewed (migrated and non-migrated) are aware of the linguistic differences between Guanacaste and Vallecentraleños speakers, linguistic prejudices still persist in the popular belief of some Costa Rican speakers; and finally, related with the linguistic variety under study, the Spanish from the Central Valley, there co-occur accommodation processes or linguistic adaptations, linguistic insecurity, linguistic change (manifested with the phenomenon of migration), attitudes of loyalty and linguistic identity reinforced with attitudes of greater awareness and acceptance of the linguistic and cultural diversity of Costa Rica. It may be concluded that in regard to the perception of the interviewed speakers, the historical division between the varieties of Spanish from Guanacaste and the Central Valley has been kept. However, the study of such linguistic varieties shows a leveling and progressive approach of both linguistic varieties, it is especially notable in those students who have lived abroad. The present study has five sections: the introduction; the theoretical frame; the methodological framework; the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the linguistic behaviors within the areas of the present study (Guanacaste and Central Valley) and finally, conclusions.

Cultural Hybridity and Identity Formation in Globalized Societies

Purpose: The general purpose of the study was to explore cultural hybridity and identity formation in globalized societies. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to cultural hybridity and identity formation in globalized societies. Preliminary empirical review revealed that cultural hybridity was pervasive, with individuals blending diverse cultural influences to construct hybrid identities. Identity formation was dynamic and influenced by globalization, migration, and historical legacies. Power dynamics, including race and socio-economic status, intersected with cultural hybridity to shape experiences of identity and belonging. The study emphasized the importance of promoting inclusivity and dialogue to navigate the complexities of cultural hybridity and foster greater understanding across diverse cultural landscapes. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Post- Colonial theory, Intersectionality theory and Transnationalism theory may be used to anchor future studies on cultural hybridity and identity formation in globalized societies. The study provided valuable insights and recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy. It enriched theoretical frameworks by adopting a multidimensional approach to understanding identity formation and underscored the importance of recognizing cultural diversity. Educators, community organizations, and policymakers utilized the study's findings to develop inclusive practices and policies that promoted intercultural understanding, social cohesion, and equitable access to resources. Additionally, media practitioners incorporated the study's insights to produce content that challenged stereotypes and fostered positive representations of cultural diversity. Overall, the study's recommendations have had a significant impact on efforts to promote inclusive development and intercultural dialogue in globalized societies.

CULTURAL DIVERSITY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN ART AND DESIGN THROUGH NEW-AGE MEDIA

Culture is a broad-spectrum term commonly used to identify habits of a heterogeneous social groups which develop in a specific geographic location. It is evidently reflected through the various art practices, be it visual or performing arts, or artifacts created by the artisans. They have become an integral part of the cultural ethos. India is a country rich in such diverse treasure of cultural practices through art. Artisans have also migrated beyond their original geographical boundaries to diversify the reach of the art. It is an important cultural asset which helps to preserve the culture and heritage of a community or the skill-sets of the artisans. Our ancestors have been preserving this culture of storytelling through the art forms which show a perspective of life. They also contribute to the livelihood of the craftsmen, thus contributing to the economy of the country. There is beauty in promoting cultural diversity; people learn new skills from other cultural groups and encourage innovation through various art forms and designs. In the contemporary era of technology, modernization and globalization, the traditional art forms are fading away. Sustainability of these valuable these art forms is a concern today. Purposes and functionality of these art practices have also diversified. The study creates new objectives through cultural diversity and designing new products for sustainable development in art and design. The article discusses some aspects of technological intervention in these art practices that can help sustain these heritages. Thus diversification of media, purpose and an involvement of the young generation can help to preserve the social cultural ethos of our country.

Πρόσφυγες ή μετανάστες; Αναπαραστάσεις των προσφυγικών ροών από τους μελλοντικούς εκπαιδευτικούς

Flows of refugee populations into a country usually create a de facto religious, ethnic, linguistic or cultural diversity which eventually has its impact on the host country’s educational system. Objectively existing heterogeneity does not mean, however, that the host country population automatically adopts a positive attitude towards this change and that it endorses without reservations or reactions the official narrative of the value and usefulness of a multicultural society. The positive attitudes of political formations, scientific unions, intellectuals, artists and other influential authorities in the public sphere may contribute to the development of a climate of acceptance of the "other", but the course of the narrative of multiculturalism from its exponents to the wider social body should not be considered linear. Of particular interest are the perceptions of future teachers about the motives behind the refugee flows to the host country. This paper presents and discusses some of the results of an empirical study on a sample of 297 students of educational faculties / future teachers on the motivations of refugees to cross the borders. The central question this article attempts to answer is (a) whether the new generation of teachers sees behind the refugee flows individuals who move because they are in danger (refugees) or persons who attempt to improve their economic life conditions (migrants), and (b) whether this perception has an impact on the degree of endorsing multiculturalism on their part as a positive social model.

The transformative potential of AI-enabled personalization across cultures

The transformative potential of AI-enabled personalization across cultures

Navigating the landscape of tourism, leisure, and sport studies in Mexico

ABSTRACT Research in tourism, leisure, and sports in Mexico is justified by the country's rich cultural, natural, and traditional diversity, as well as its economic and sociocultural relevance. Despite growth in these fields, challenges persist, such as lack of international recognition, limitations in interdisciplinary research, and barriers to knowledge publication and dissemination. This work presents a consensus derived from the Latin American Colloquium on Interspecies Relations in Tourism, Leisure, and Sports in 2023. The consensus highlights the increase in interdisciplinary collective research in these areas but acknowledges the scarcity of scientific studies in Mexico. Complex sociocultural practices and conditions shape various tourism, leisure, and sports activities, implying a need and opportunity for research in the country. Additionally, the importance of integrating local Mexican knowledge into the global academic discourse and overcoming challenges such as editorial biases and language barriers is emphasised. Lastly, Mexican academics and the global community are urged to collaborate in disseminating and challenging intellectual colonialism concerning knowledge about leisure, tourism, and sports in Mexico.