Cultural Diversity Research Articles

Language is caught not taught: Parents’ use of bimodal bilingualism with their deaf children

Aims and objectives: Bimodal bilingualism is a relatively new model for deaf children that involves the learning and utilization of two languages in the United States: American Sign Language (ASL) in the visual modality and English or another spoken language in the auditory modality. This approach involves using both sign language (visual modality) and spoken or written language (aural/oral modality). Methodology: A qualitative content analysis was conducted using semi-structured interviews to collect data from parents using a bimodal bilingual philosophy to raise their children. Data and analysis: This study investigated factors influencing parents’ decisions regarding the bimodal and bilingual development of their deaf child. A total of 14 families were identified. Findings: Most parents stated that they either knew or were exposed to deaf people and ASL or could obtain early intervention and support, knowing how to find resources for their child. Parents expressed a strong desire for their deaf child to be fully integrated into their family dynamics. They expressed high expectations for their child and saw them like any other family member. These parents valued bilingualism and did not see that bimodal bilingualism differed from learning two spoken languages. Originality: The model of bimodal bilingualism is relatively unknown, and no current studies have touched on multiple families’ choice to utilize bimodal bilingualism with their deaf children and what consequences emerged from doing so. Implications: Families that choose to utilize only oral/aural practices with their deaf child may notice negative effects on their child’s language development. Limitations: A future study should include more families, especially those with diverse cultures and backgrounds.

DYNAMICS OF RISK FACTORS IN THE NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL SECURITY ENVIRONMENT

The past decade was marked with an embrace of both positive and negative trends that entrenched new global security threats that occasioned both international and regional risks. However, it is possible to achieve major objectives in this time lapse; yet there has been an emergent necessity to build a new architecture of international/ regional security phenomenon. Nevertheless, the contemporary world still offers numerous conflicts based on the access to resources and such aspects as ethnic, cultural, religious and ideological diversities. The present paper now turns to one of the areas greatly affected by instability, uncertainty and disruption of the established international relations. Current conflict dynamics depict a different picture, with terrorist attacks in 2015 being clear evidence of need for different approach to the problem than the military one. They have a significant role in protecting national security as public order is a state of order within a country characterized by harmony, law and order in societies. It is essential as it relates to stability and protection and which requires national and international security to be in synergy and to admit extensive multidimensional international cooperation. This era stresses out the need to update national legislation to the international level and the development of international police cooperation. A management of public order through information is crucial to tackle existing security challenges. Thus, the protection of security and public order is currently one of the main worldwide and regional priorities in a condition of constant alteration and uncertain risks, requires an extensive and integrated interdisciplinary view on the current and future problems.

Tolerance Attitude Analysis of the Social Piety Value in the Novel Lingkar Tanah Lingkar Air Based on Prophetic Ethics

This study analyzes tolerance attitude as a manifestation of social piety values within the framework of prophetic ethics in the novel Lingkar Tanah Lingkar Air by Ahmad Tohari. This study aims to understand how the novel depicts tolerance in the context of diversity in Indonesia. Using Goldmann's genetic structuralism approach and Jurij Lotman's semiotics, qualitative research methods were used, involving hermeneutic analysis and interviews with the author. The results showed a binary opposition between the character Kang Suyud, who represents a rigid interpretation of Islam, and Kyai Ngumar, who prioritizes tolerance. The novel illustrates how differences in religious understanding do not have to lead to conflict, emphasizing the importance of social piety manifested through tolerance and empathy. Kyai Ngumar's tolerant attitude contrasts with Kang Suyud's intolerance, showing the importance of moderation and understanding diversity to maintain social harmony in Indonesia, aligning with prophetic ethical values. This study concludes that tolerance is the key to building an inclusive society in Indonesia, which is rich in cultural and religious diversity.

Bridging Data Communities: Interoperability through inclusive, cross-institutional collaboration

Objectives: To demonstrate how librarians can use engagement strategies to foster the exchange of knowledge and skills for data analysis and to build bridges between data communities. A second objective is to help student instructors to develop effective live-coding pedagogical practices and to gain practical experience in leading participatory workshop sessions. Methods: Librarians developed a low-barrier introductory peer-to-peer data science workshop series to support students seeking to develop coding, data analysis, and visualization skills, with a focus on Python and SQL. We guided undergraduate peer instructors in participatory live-coding pedagogy, organized practice sessions for instructors, and managed the scheduling, logistics, outreach, and hosting of the workshops. Results: In Fall 2023 sessions in the workshop series were delivered synchronously to over 100 participants, including students from our home institution and more than a dozen community colleges; one workshop was delivered twice—once in English, once in Spanish. Workshop recordings posted online have been viewed over 1000 times. Conclusions: We successfully identified strategies for building upon existing relationships and strengthening connections among diverse data communities; designing programs and outreach efforts to lower barriers to participation in data science; and fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion in data science knowledge sharing.

Culturally responsive curriculum: A systematic overview

A culturally responsive curriculum is a teaching approach centered on students’ cultural backgrounds. It emphasizes cultural diversity and understanding by integrating elements of students’ cultures into the curriculum to increase their learning motivation and engagement. Hence, a culturally responsive curriculum is an educational approach in which students’ cultural backgrounds, life experiences, and social contexts are weaved into the curriculum, resulting in content that is relevant to students’ lives and needs. This article provides an overview of the essence of a culturally responsive curriculum. Teachers, especially, can gain a deeper understanding of the principles and significance of a culturally responsive curriculum by reading this article. Finally, the practice of culturally responsive curriculum in the context of Taiwan’s culture is discussed.

The Progression of Inclusive Language that Enhances Belonging.

Inclusive language has become a theoretical approach in attempts to ensure that language is not only clear but void of cultural nuances. Depending on the source or the discipline, the definition may vary, but the essence is similar. Inclusive language demonstrates a sense of respect and value for all people while simultaneously acknowledging the diverse culture in which we abide. Incorporating inclusive language should be a deliberate effort to avoid words and phrases that are synonymous with stereotypes and biases about any individual or group. Attention to inclusive language demonstrates that one is sensitive to and respectful of individual differences. Words send intentional or unintentional messages, either of which may have a powerful impact. Thus, it is paramount that the language we use is void of words or expressions that further exclude or denigrate individuals or groups of people based on their defining characteristics.

A Cross-Country Comparison: Plurilingual Teaching Across Educational Curricula in Finland, Germany, and Norway

Due to globalization and migration, societies are increasingly more linguistically and culturally diverse. This change necessitates a growing awareness and understanding of linguistic and cultural diversity. Beyond awareness, ever-increasing multilingual and multicultural societies bear important implications for educational institutions, teacher training, and policy making. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to investigate whether plurilingual teaching is considered in the curricula and educational guidelines for primary and secondary schools across Finland, Germany, and Norway, and to find out the extent to which the approaches to plurilingual teaching diverge. A comparison of these three countries is particularly insightful, as they differ in population size, migration history, and number of heritage speakers. As part of the analysis, the following three themes relevant to plurilingual teaching were identified: cultural diversity, multilingualism as a resource, and valuing heritage languages. We provide a critical assessment of the curricula and educational guidelines in addition to suggesting avenues for future research.

The Role of Aesthetics in Medical Device Design

This paper examines the importance of aesthetics in the design of medical devices, examining how aesthetic considerations contribute to improved usability, patient acceptance, and emotional well-being. Medical device manufacturers have increasingly integrated aesthetic elements that go beyond functionality to foster a personal connection between devices and users. The incorporation of aesthetic design promotes psychological comfort, enhances trust, and facilitates a sense of satisfaction, particularly in devices intended for long-term use. By analyzing various case studies and examining current methods of quantifying aesthetic factors in medical devices, this study reveals the implications of aesthetics on device effectiveness and user compliance. The paper argues that while aesthetic value in medical devices is subjective, its impact on user experience and operational success is substantial. Finally, challenges related to regulatory standards, cultural diversity, and the balance between form and function are discussed, underscoring the need for an interdisciplinary approach to creating aesthetically mindful medical devices. Keywords: Aesthetic Design, Medical Device Usability, Patient Compliance, Emotional Well-being, User Experience, Product Acceptance.

“It’s so complicated”: a qualitative study of interpreters’ experiences working with speech pathologists to support the provision of aphasia rehabilitation

Purpose International migration and global ageing have resulted in burgeoning cultural and linguistic diversity in aphasia caseloads worldwide. Increasingly, speech pathologists do not share a language with their clients, yet there is a lack of evidence to guide the provision of aphasia rehabilitation when an interpreter is required. There is no available research exploring the perspectives of interpreters who work with speech pathologists in aphasia therapy sessions. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight certified interpreters, exploring their experiences of working with speech pathologists delivering therapy to people with aphasia. The data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results Data analysis revealed eleven Group Experiential Themes. These were further clustered into three top-level categories: (i) interpreting for aphasia involves non-standard practices for interpreters; (ii) collaboration between the speech pathologist and interpreter is crucial for understanding critical aspects of aphasia therapy and interpreting; and (iii) additional knowledge and skills are required to manage interpreting for aphasia. Conclusions This study offers new insights into the challenges interpreters face working with speech pathologists to support the provision of aphasia therapy. The findings emphasise the need for broader systemic changes to ensure health services offer culturally responsive and equitable aphasia rehabilitation to diverse caseloads.

The Influence of Cultural Factors on Learning Styles

This paper explores the significant influence of cultural factors on learning styles and their implications for educational practice. As classrooms become increasingly diverse, understanding the interplay between culture and learning preferences is essential for fostering inclusive learning environments. Cultural factors, such as communication styles, student-teacher relationships, and parental involvement, significantly impact how students engage with educational content. Recogizing these influences enables educators to adapt their teaching methods, creating supportive environments that cater to the unique needs of their students. Moreover, the importance of teacher training and awareness in addressing cultural diversity cannot be overstated, as equip-ping educators with the skills to understand and respond to cultural differences enhances their effectiveness in promoting student engagement and achievement. Future research directions should focus on cross-cultural studies, longitudinal analyses, and the impact of technology, among others. By exploring these areas, educators and researchers can continue to deepen their understanding of how cultural factors influence learning styles, ultimately leading to improved educational practices and outcomes.

NEŞET ERTAŞ'S FINGERPRINT IN THE HICAZ MAKAM: PITCH/FREQUENCY ANALYSIS

ABSTRACT This study examines the unique pitch and microtone structures in Neşet Ertaş’s renditions of the Hicaz makam, particularly as shaped by the Kırşehir region's musical traditions. Known as one of the most prominent figures in Turkish folk music, Neşet Ertaş brings a distinctive pitch configuration to the Hicaz makam, reinterpreting Kırşehir’s musical heritage with a modern approach. The objective of this study is to determine whether Ertaş’s music reflects a Kırşehir-specific interpretation of the Hicaz makam. To this end, the pitch choices Ertaş used in his Kırşehir-based performances are analyzed in detail. This analysis aims to show that the Hicaz makam in Ertaş's music embodies a localized interpretation, emerging as a unique modal understanding specific to the Kırşehir region. The study aims to contribute to Turkish music culture by analyzing the distinct variations of the Hicaz makam as observed in the Kırşehir region. Its scope is centered on examining the unique musical characteristics of Kırşehir, as presented through Neşet Ertaş’s music. While the universe of the study comprises works performed in the Hicaz makam within Turkish folk music, the sample consists of recordings of Kırşehir folk songs performed by Neşet Ertaş in the Hicaz makam. In the study, frequency analyses of the pitches and microtone values in Ertaş’s music were conducted using signal processing software, including MakamBox. Through this approach, the precise deviations in pitch and microtones used by Ertaş have been identified. Quantitative analyses provide numerical measurements of microtones, which are compared to the Arel-Ezgi-Uzdilek pitch system. In the qualitative analyses, Ertaş’s local performance style and characteristics within the Hicaz makam were interpreted alongside these findings.The study’s findings indicate that Ertaş’s music deviates from the Arel-Ezgi-Uzdilek system, presenting a Hicaz makam profile unique to the Kırşehir region. Particularly, the deviations in the pitches of si flat and do sharp reflect Kırşehir’s distinct musical character. For example, in practice, the si flat pitch is often executed with microtone values of 5.5 and 6 commas, which are not present theoretically, while variations from 3 to 4 commas are observed in the do sharp pitch. These findings reveal that Ertaş’s music is marked by entonations and melodic trajectories unique to the Abdal cultural tradition. The study concludes that Neşet Ertaş’s approach to the Hicaz makam reflects the musical richness of the Kırşehir region and reveals this regional identity through modern analysis tools. The study emphasizes the importance of preserving, analyzing, and incorporating regional musical variations into music education. It recommends increasing the number of music analyses focused on local variations, conducting more comprehensive frequency analyses, and developing tools like MakamBox for in-depth regional makam analysis. These suggestions support a broader perspective on the interpretation of regional differences in Turkish folk music and the preservation of cultural diversity within Turkish music. Ertaş’s music contributes a cultural and artistic value to Turkish music through its Kırşehir-specific interpretation of the Hicaz makam and serves as a vital source for the transmission of this heritage to future generations.

Cultural Competence in Dietetic Practice

In the European context shaped by migration, it is necessary to adapt dietitians to cultural diversity for effective professional practice. The objectives of the research are to analyze the cultural and ethnic diversity in Romania, highlighting the possible influence of acculturation on the dietary behaviors of different ethnic groups, and to formulate ways to apply the stages of cultural competence. The research methodology included the collection and use of data from the population census and other statistical sources to analyze the ethnic, linguistic, and religious composition in different regions of Romania, and the use of a cultural competence model that could be applied in the Romanian medical context for the formulation of health recommendations tailored to eating habits and influenced by acculturation and sociocultural factors. The study reveals the cultural diversity of the Romanian population, with more than 1.7 million inhabitants having a native language other than Romanian and with a wide ethnic and religious variety. We adapted a cultural competence model including methods to assess dietary acculturation, understand food preferences, and respect ethnic, religious, and generational diversity, ensuring its applicability in various multicultural contexts. This study emphasizes the importance of cultural competence in dietetic practice in a diverse health care setting and tailoring nutrition services according to cultural diversity to improve health and patient satisfaction.

Use of Radio in Educating Diverse Cultures among Ado Ekiti Residents

The history of human communication began with the oral or spoken tradition. Through the course of history, the dissemination of messages progressed from oral tradition to script, print, wired electronics, wireless electronics, and finally digital communication. This paper is about the use of radio in educating diverse cultures among Ado Ekiti residents. We are all different, hence, it is important to recognize each other's communication manners, and then learn to handle them. This paper examines intercultural communication and the importance of recognizing each other's communication manners and learning to handle it. Conditions for effective intercultural communication were discussed in the paper explaining the purpose and the principles of broadcasting, the nature of radio and television broadcasting, advantages and disadvantages of intercultural communication via broadcasting. It is imperative to note that communication is the active relationship established between people through language and several other forms whether it’s verbal or written communication. Therefore, it is germane to interpret what you see or hear exactly the way it is to evade needless confusion. When broadcasting, it is also very important to use simple and clear words while portraying your message so as not to be misinterpreted. This paper suggests the need for the government to promote the use of radio broadcasting in the state by providing adequate equipment and building the capacity of personnel in the industry. Dispensing information through this means would go a long way in educating, informing, and entertaining residents of the state with diverse cultural backgrounds.

Hubungan Antara Politik dan Kepemimpinan Islam: Tantangan dan Peluang

The aim of this research is to get to know the concepts, principles and theories of leadership in Islam, explain the leadership process of Rasulullah SAW, understand the implementation of leadership by Rasulullah SAW, explain the challenges of implementing Islamic leadership concepts in Indonesia, encourage the application of Islamic leadership concepts in Indonesia. By using qualitative research methods with a literature study approach. Qualitative research focuses on searching for meaning and describing phenomena in a holistic and natural way. Primary sources are literature about Islamic leadership, while secondary sources are books related to the themes discussed. Indirect data collection techniques were carried out by examining relevant objects, and data analysis using descriptive methods produced the following findings that Leadership in Islam is based on the Al-Qur'an and Hadith, emphasizing piety, justice, trust and deliberation. Key principles include trust, justice, and deliberation. Rasulullah SAW built leadership by focusing the activities of the people at the Nabawi Mosque, uniting the tribes in Medina, and implementing formal and spiritual strategies. He is an example of fair, wise and inspiring leadership, prioritizing the interests of the people. In Indonesia, the challenges of implementing Islamic leadership concepts include cultural diversity, requiring leaders who are sensitive to local values. Leaders must uphold the principles of honesty, fairness and inclusiveness, as well as focus on education, resource management and the protection of human rights

From Existence to Being: Reflections on the Transformation of Personal Identity Through Confrontation with Cultural, Religious, and Spiritual Diversity

(1) Background: This study describes an exploration of the potential of cultural, religious, and spiritual diversity to trigger one’s psychological self-image and open the possibility of personal identity transformation as a tool for deep intercultural, interreligious, and interspiritual dialog (2) Results: The study provides a philosophical argument for understanding the existential experience of the “unknown” as a stimulus for critical reflection or even for the transformation of personal identity of the individuals involved in such interactions. (3) Methods: The method of phenomenological analysis was employed in this theoretical research. (4) Conclusions: The circumstances were philosophically considered under which the existential experience of the unknown in intercultural, interreligious, and interspiritual contexts can facilitate processes of critical reflection or the transformation of personal identity based on the philosophical distinction between ontic and ontological identity.

Inclusion of genital, sexual, and gender diversity in human reproductive teaching: impact on student experience and recommendations for tertiary educators.

Western societal norms have long been constrained by binary and exclusionary perspectives on matters such as infertility, contraception, sexual health, sexuality, and gender. These viewpoints have shaped research and knowledge frameworks for decades and led to an inaccurate and incomplete reproductive biology curriculum. To combat these deficiencies in reproductive systems-related education, our teaching team undertook a gradual transformation of unit content from 2018 to 2023, aiming to better reflect real diversity in human reproductive biology. This initiative involved intentional modifications, including clear use of pronoun self-identification by staff. We addressed the historical lack of representation of genital variation and helped students interrogate oversimplified reproductive biology binaries. A novel assignment was also introduced, prompting students to apply reproductive physiology knowledge to propose innovative assisted reproductive technology solutions for diverse demographics. The collective impact of these innovations had a positive effect on student learning. With improved lecture content and inclusive language, the proportion of inclusive group assignment topics chosen by students more than doubled in 2021. By 2022, coinciding with assessment topic changes, the percentage of inclusive assignments topics surpassed 50%. Further development of laboratory activities on intersex genital variation and genital modification raised further understanding of genital, sexual, gender, and cultural diversity. While implementing these changes posed challenges, pushing both staff and students out of their comfort zones at times, collaboration with relevant organizations and individuals with lived experience of queer identity proved integral. Ultimately, these relatively simple adjustments had a substantial impact on student experiences and appreciation for diversity.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We outline the teaching innovations that we have implemented to improve inclusion of diversity in reproductive biology and physiology contexts. This includes improved representation of genital, sexual, and gender diversity considerations in the curriculum. There is a critical need for these innovations as how we teach fundamentally shapes the understanding of our future medical and health professionals and researchers and thus influences the quality of future medical care and research.

Cultural diversity climate in school: A meta-analytic review of its relationships with intergroup, academic, and socioemotional outcomes.

This first-of-its-kind meta-analysis (N = 79 studies; 56,552 students; k = 640 effects) provides a comprehensive assessment of five cultural diversity climate approaches that capture different ways of addressing cultural diversity in K-12 schools. We examined how intergroup contact theory's optimal contact conditions, multiculturalism climate, colorblind climate, critical consciousness climate, and polyculturalism climate were associated with children's and adolescents' intergroup outcomes (intergroup attitudes, cross-group friendships, experienced discrimination), academic outcomes (academic achievement, motivation, engagement), and socioemotional outcomes (belonging, well-being). Results from meta-analytic random-effects models revealed the largest and most consistent effects for optimal contact conditions, with small-to-medium-sized effects and significant relationships with all outcomes. Multiculturalism climate was significantly and positively related to intergroup attitudes, achievement, motivation, and belonging (mostly, these were small effect sizes). Critical consciousness climate (small effect sizes) and polyculturalism climate (small-to-medium effect sizes) were correlated with both academic and socioemotional outcomes. Colorblind climate was not significantly associated with any outcomes. Moderator analyses revealed that contact conditions exhibited larger effects in secondary education compared with primary education and in the United States compared with Europe. The percentage of majority group members moderated some relationships (e.g., contact conditions had smaller effects when there were more majority group members in the sample). Significantly larger effects emerged for student-reported colorblind climate measures than for teacher-reported measures. Overall, this meta-analysis provides a highly nuanced view of the most robust evidence for the associations between cultural diversity climate and outcomes that are critical for positive child and youth development to date. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

PENGEMBANGAN KOMPETENSI MATEMATIKA MELALUI KEGIATAN KEBHINEKAAN

This research discusses the development of mathematical competence through diversity activities, focusing on student learning through the Nusantara Module in the Independent Student Exchange Program in the Tumpang Valley. The background of this research is rooted in the importance of improving the quality of mathematics education and strengthening the values of diversity in the university environment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of Nusantara Module in improving the understanding and mathematical skills of students from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The research method used is a qualitative approach with interview, observation, and documentation analysis techniques. The results showed that learning through the Nusantara Module succeeded in building a deep understanding of mathematics and problem-solving skills among students, while appreciating cultural diversity. In addition, there is an increase in active participation, creativity, and enthusiasm for student learning in the context of diversity. In conclusion, the Nusantara Module in the context of the Independent Student Exchange Program not only improves mathematical competence, but also strengthens understanding of the values of diversity and cross-cultural cooperation. These findings provide the basis for the development of diversity-based learning strategies in higher education, supporting students' academic and social growth in a multicultural atmosphere.

Cultural diversity and leadership styles in Malaysia’s corporate sector

In an era marked by globalization and heightened competition, this study delves into how sociodemographic factors such as age, gender, education, and work experience influence leadership styles, crucial for achieving organizational objectives. Employing the leadership behaviour questionnaire on 336 predominantly educated, male professionals of Indian descent in Malaysia's corporate sector, the research evaluates task and relationship orientations in leadership. The findings highlight a significant prevalence of both task-oriented and relationship-oriented leadership behaviours. Intriguingly, there is a positive correlation between higher education, age, work experience, and relationship orientation, while education and salary predominantly affect task-oriented leadership. A notable discovery is the positive interplay between task and relationship orientations, suggesting their complementary nature. The study concludes that a balanced, multifaceted leadership approach, fostering both efficiency and employee welfare, is vital. It underscores the impact of educational and professional growth on leadership skills and the necessity of diverse leadership styles for optimal organizational performance, offering key insights for leadership development in varied settings.

Faith in Frames: Constructing a Digital Game‐Based Learning Framework for Religious Education

ABSTRACTThis paper discusses the potential of DGBL to facilitate transformation in the context of religious education, arguing for the fact that it is immersive, interactive, and experiential. The paper outlines how this could substantially provide a more engaging learning environment for students, develop critical thinking, and ensure effective learning outcomes. This study explores the advantages and challenges involved in integrating DGBL into curricula for religious education in regard to the alignment between digital game design and pedagogical objectives. These are the important discussions of the application of methodologies in education, constructivist and experiential learning theories, and incorporation of cognitive load optimization strategies to ensure that DGBL does not just enchant students with games but fosters deep understanding of religiously related concepts. Of importance is sharing information to ensure that the content of digital games correctly exemplifies the various traditions of religion and student identity to foster belongingness and respect towards cultural diversity. This paper also takes on board some of the pragmatic issues, among which are professional development by teachers, game design challenges, and possible resistance from other stakeholders who are concerned by the perceived risks associated with gaming. This paper argues that the strategic use of DGBL as a methodology will permit educators to design personalized, engaging, and culturally sensitive learning contexts that enhance students' understanding of and engagement with religious teachings, thus working towards a framework of more inclusive religious education.