Cultural Identity Research Articles

Exploring User Experience in Virtual Industrial Heritage Platforms: Impact of Cultural Identity, Functional Clarity, Scene Interactivity, and Narrative Quality

This study aims to investigate the key factors influencing user experience in the design of virtual interactive platforms for the preservation of industrial heritage within the context of digitalization. In the literature review, this paper introduces a theoretical model comprising five latent variables: cultural identity, functional clarity, scenario interactivity, narrative quality, and user experience. To construct and validate the model, the author employed structural equation modeling (SEM) to analyze data from 323 valid questionnaires collected in China. The validation of the SEM model led to conclusions regarding the impact of each latent variable on user experience. The results indicate that cultural identity, functional clarity, scene interactivity, and narrative quality significantly affect user experience and play a critical role in enhancing user experience on virtual platforms. To validate this theoretical framework, the study employs the virtual interactive platform of Hanyang Ironworks as a case study, examining how these factors manifest in practical scenarios and their specific impact on platform design. The findings reveal that a strong sense of cultural identity, clear functional design, interactive scenes, and a well-structured narrative are the core factors that enhance user experience on virtual industrial heritage platforms. This research provides both theoretical support for the digital preservation of industrial heritage and practical insights for the design of virtual platforms. The study improves virtual interactions with industrial heritage and informs future research and applications.

Shifting from Religious Populism to Authoritarian Populism: Two Decades of Identity Politics Dynamics in Indonesia

This article aims to answer the question of whether identity-based movements are free from tendencies in political economy. By analyzing the actions and orientations of the militant Islamic group from the New Order to the Reform era, we show that social movements based on cultural identities are far from representing the demands of groups of recognition. Rather, these movements are leveraged as political tools for the executive group in determining dominant issues among the public to increase voter preferences and bring economic benefits to militant Islamic groups. This is insisted upon through a shift in political trends from religious populism to authoritarian populism. We argue that a possible solution could be prioritizing democratic values that lead to performance and integrity, not sectoral interests that can create fragmentation in society.

A Report On World English Variety – Tok Pisin

Tok Pisin, one of the official languages of Papua New Guinea, has evolved into a lingua franca spoken by over six million people in the country. This study aims to analyze the history, sociolinguistic context, as well as the morphological and syntactic features of Tok Pisin, one of the official languages of Papua New Guinea. The research is qualitative descriptive in nature. The population includes Tok Pisin speakers in Papua New Guinea, with a sample of 15 Papua New Guinean students in Melbourne selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through literature analysis and surveys. Data analysis was conducted thematically with triangulation. The findings highlight the significant role of Tok Pisin as a lingua franca connecting more than 800 language groups in Papua New Guinea, despite the diverse opinions among its speakers. Morphologically, the language exhibits strong English influence through the use of affixes "-im" and "-pela," while syntactically, it maintains an SVO word order. The conclusion of this study emphasizes the value of Tok Pisin as a cultural identity and a unifying tool, although a small number of speakers perceive it as a barrier to English proficiency. This research provides critical insights into the dynamics of contact languages in multilingual societies.

Historical Significance of the “Manaschi” and “Bakhshi” Schools

The article explores the historical significance of the “manaschi” school in Kyrgyz culture and the “bakhshi” tradition in Uzbek culture as unique forms of oral epic art. Their role in the preservation of national heritage, transmission of historical memory and formation of cultural identity is analyzed. Ethnographic comparison reveals common features, such as the use of intonation, rhythm and improvisation to enhance the expressiveness of the epic, as well as differences due to the peculiarities of ethnic history and worldview. Special attention is paid to the spiritual mission of the performers and their role as guardians and transmitters of traditions. The article emphasizes the importance of studying these schools for the preservation and popularization of the intangible heritage of Central Asia.

Characterization of the cultural identity of Sincelejo (Colombia) for tourism

El propósito de este artículo es describir los atributos de la identidad cultural de Sincelejo. Se utilizó una metodología cuantitativa descriptiva, la cual incluyó una encuesta realizada a 211 participantes. Los resultados se analizaron mediante el software SPSS versión 26, con el apoyo de Excel 2023. La información recopilada da cuenta de los elementos que reconocen tanto residentes como visitantes y empresarios sobre lo que distingue a esta ciudad región para potenciar el turismo, que incluye Morroa, Corozal y Sampúes. Entre los atributos reconocidos de la gastronomía se encuentran, el mote de queso y el sancocho; en cuanto a la música y el baile, el porro, el fandango y el vallenato. La religión es predominantemente católica. Las fiestas más representativas son el Dulce Nombre de Jesús, el Carnaval de Corozal y el Festival del Pito Atravesao. Se concluye que se requieren estrategias promocionales que afiancen la identidad cultural de este lugar, teniendo en cuenta que hay algunos que no son autóctonos, por lo que se considera que las tradiciones se están perdiendo y es necesario rescatarlas.

Environmental art design from a biomechanical perspective: Exploration of the psychological and physiological effects of the integration of transparent materials and traditional cultural elements on residential spaces

With the advancement of urbanization, environmental art design is becoming increasingly important in contemporary Chinese interior design, especially in the design of modern rural villas. The integration of traditional culture and art has become an important way to enhance the artistic value and cultural significance of residential spaces. This article explores the psychological and physiological effects of interior design that combines transparent materials with traditional art elements from a biological perspective on residents. Transparent materials are like delicate optical structures in the biological world. They not only give the space a sense of lightness and openness, but their interaction with light also has a profound impact on the human body. From a biomechanical perspective, just like the sensitive capture of light signals by the biological visual system, transparent materials of different colors and materials can adjust light and shadow, and then act on the human nervous system and psychological state. Bright light passing through transparent materials is like a strong stimulus perceived by organisms, which can stimulate vitality; soft light is like a soothing signal, which can bring a relaxing effect. In addition, the integration of traditional cultural elements enhances the spiritual satisfaction of residents by evoking cultural identity and emotional resonance. This paper also combines case studies, such as Hiroshima Optical Glass House and Türkiye Draman Villa, to analyze how transparent materials can achieve the balance of visual, emotional and biological effects in the modern living environment, providing a new perspective for improving the quality of life of residents. The research results indicate that the organic combination of transparent materials and traditional cultural elements can not only improve the biological experience of residential spaces, but also promote physical and mental health, enhance the emotional value and cultural depth of the space. By applying insights from biomechanics, designers can create environments that support human physiology, ultimately improving residents' quality of life. This interdisciplinary approach offers a novel perspective on how interior design can significantly influence well-being and cultural depth in modern living environments.

Collective Memory and Cultural Identity Review

Collective memory is vital for understanding a society's history and cultural identity, serving as a bridge between the past and the present. The concept of cultural identity is not fixed but evolves over time, shaped by the interactions of individuals with their communities and others. This study investigates the connection between collective memory and cultural identity, focusing on the transformations of the latter. It explores collective memory within an artistic context, analyzing elements such as texts, narratives, photographs, rituals, monuments, celebrations, and buildings that construct a society’s narrative and self-image. The study aims to contribute to the harmonious reconstruction of historical narratives and cultural identities, integrating modern innovations. The research examines the transition from communicative memory to cultural identity, described as thematic culture. It emphasizes the distinctive aspects of collective and cultural memory, utilizing examples from modern literature, particularly exile and diaspora literature. These works highlight how literary texts engage with multiculturalism, cultural diversity, and openness to other cultures. Furthermore, the study addresses the impact of the 1967 war on Arab culture and literature, underscoring its significance in reconstructing collective memory and redefining cultural identity in the Arab world. This analysis demonstrates how memory and literature shape evolving cultural identities in a globalized context. KEYWORDS Communicative memory, cultural difference, cultural memory, identity, memory structures, thematic culture

Intergenerational transmission or cultural loss? The continuity of ethnic identity among the Yao minority in China

PurposeThis study aims to examine the intergenerational transmission of ethnic culture among the Yao minority in China, focusing on how rapid societal changes and modernization impact cultural identity maintenance. The research seeks to understand the perspectives of different generations of Yao individuals regarding their traditional culture, external influences and ethnic identity. The study aims to identify factors that facilitate or hinder cultural transmission, assess the effectiveness of current cultural preservation efforts and uncover potential strategies for maintaining ethnic identity in a rapidly changing society. Additionally, the research investigates the role of traditional elements, such as ethnic clothing, in connecting younger generations to their cultural heritage.Design/methodology/approachThis study employed a qualitative approach using grounded theory methodology to explore the intergenerational transmission of Yao ethnic culture in China. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 Yao individuals representing different generations. Participants were purposively selected from two Yao villages in southern China. Data collection also included researcher observations and memos. Interviews were conducted in Chinese, translated to English and analyzed using NVivo12 software. The analysis followed the grounded theory approach of open, axial and selective coding. Triangulation was achieved through discussions with participants' peers and family members. Ethical considerations included obtaining informed consent, ensuring participant anonymity and securing institutional review board approval.FindingsThe study revealed three distinct generational attitudes towards Yao culture: rejection among older generations, semi-openness in middle-aged groups and initiated closeness in younger generations. Despite government policies supporting population growth, ethnic identity is not effectively transmitted across generations. Economic disparities between Yao communities and external society significantly influence cultural preservation, with younger generations prioritizing economic opportunities over traditional practices. However, traditional Yao clothing emerged as a potential link between younger individuals and their cultural heritage, offering a promising avenue for cultural preservation. The research also highlighted the impact of education, technology and media on shaping attitudes towards traditional culture and external influences across different age groups.Originality/valueThis study provides insights into the cultural transmission within the Yao minority in China, a previously understudied ethnic group. It uniquely examines the interplay between economic development, government policies and intergenerational attitudes in shaping ethnic identity maintenance. The research reveals an unexpected potential for traditional clothing to serve as a bridge between younger generations and their cultural heritage, offering a fresh perspective on cultural preservation strategies. By identifying distinct generational attitudes towards cultural identity, this study contributes valuable knowledge to the fields of ethnic studies, cultural anthropology and social psychology, while also informing policymaking for minority cultural preservation in rapidly modernizing societies.

Adaptive Reuse of Industrial Heritage Sites for Sustainable Urban Development

The research aims at future urban transformation and development by rediscovering the industrial heritage in the 798 Art Zone, Beijing and the M50 Creative Plaza, Shanghai. In the assessment of the criteria, benefits and success factors of adaptive reuse projects, the research employs the use of both quantitative (questionnaires) and qualitative (case studies) methods. The following points have been identified such as government incentives, local engagement, and retaining the appearance of industrial structures. Drawing from industrial heritage architecture, the study reveals the economic, environmental, and social benefits of retrofitting industrial structures, increased economy revitalisation and cultural identity, and the mitigation of new construction. However, the research found some drawbacks of the study such as the absence of unified conceptual frameworks that cover all four dimensions of sustainability and the uncertainty associated with technical and regulatory factors. This work, therefore, points out that, while adaptive reuse projects are critical to the augmentation of urban regeneration, there exist hurdles that require deliberate effort to be surmounted. Based on these findings, suggestions are given for improvement to policies for government, political parties, urban designers and developers to improve the comprehensiveness of pro-historical building reuse policies. This work finally suggests a framework for further research on any adaptive reuse projects to inform future sustainable design efforts that take into consideration the exploration of resources of the culture and ecosystems.

Exploring Racial Justice with Culturally Responsive Mathematical Modeling in the Primary Grades: Cultivating Criticality in the Problem-Based Learning Space

This study explores the integration of culturally responsive mathematical modeling (CRMM) in primary grades to promote racial justice and critical consciousness. The research focuses on how CRMM can support problem-based learning (PBL) by engaging students in analyzing real-world issues through mathematics. CRMM leverages students' cultural knowledge, identities, and experiences to critically examine and address social justice issues, such as racial representation in classroom libraries. The study utilizes a case study approach to investigate the supports and challenges faced by two primary grade teachers in designing and implementing a CRMM task, the Library Diversity Project. This project aimed to evaluate and improve the fairness of classroom library collections by analyzing the representation of different racial and cultural groups in children's books. The research highlights the importance of collegial support, critical reflection, and the use of specific pedagogical tools, such as decision matrices and graphical representations, in facilitating CRMM. Key findings indicate that CRMM tasks can cultivate critical awareness and empathy among students, enabling them to take action to address inequities. The study also unveils the complexity of implementing CRMM, particularly in navigating political, contextual, and mathematical challenges. Teachers' critical reflexivity and collaboration were essential in addressing these challenges and fostering a learning environment that allowed students to use mathematics to analyze an issue and take action. The research contributes to the literature on equity-focused mathematics education by providing empirical evidence of the potential of CRMM to promote social justice in the primary grades. It emphasizes the need for ongoing professional development and support for teachers to effectively integrate CRMM into their practice. The study concludes with recommendations for future research and practice in culturally responsive mathematics teaching.

Gender and Singing in Pahlavi Soundscape: Modern Feminine Culture and Masculine Politics in the Age of Popular Culture, Vision, and Rumors; A Discussion of Sensory History in Modern Iran

Abstract Focusing on the cultural history of vocal music in Pahlavi Iran, this article examines the senses in modern Iranian history. As the article shows, the performance of Iranian vocal music became subject to a gendered male and female dichotomy. While this dichotomy did not exist in early Pahlavi Iran, in the early 1950s, a gendered consciousness and language emerged among male musicophilias, eventually separating genres of vocal performance across gender lines. Hence, vocal music known as āvāz became increasingly associated with male performers, while tarāneh and tasnif were increasingly associated with female performers. As the article attempts to show, this gender dichotomy should be contextualized in the broader tension between the sense of vision and sight and disciplined notions of aurality and the body. While the “modern woman's” body permeated the visual domain in the public sphere, the cultural ideals of disciplined aurality and body docility informed the male musicophilias countercultural claims in Pahlavi Iran. Eventually, the latter attempted to challenge the female agency in the public music sphere.

Patriotism and national identity in Uzbek female students abroad

In an increasingly globalized world, the tension between global citizenship and national identity has garnered significant academic interest. For Uzbek female students studying abroad, the intersection of national identity and international education presents unique challenges and opportunities. This study explores how participation in international programs influences the national identity and patriotic sentiments of these students, who are often seen as cultural custodians within Uzbek society. Drawing on theories of cultural identity, globalization, and educational sociology, this research examines how Uzbek female students navigate their sense of patriotism while engaging with diverse cultural environments abroad. Through a mixed-methods approach involving surveys and interviews, the study reveals that, despite challenges of cultural dislocation and identity negotiation, most students retain a strong connection to their homeland, with a clear intention to return and contribute to Uzbekistan’s development. The findings highlight the dual role of social media as both a bridge to home and a source of global perspectives, shaping students' perceptions of national and global identities. The study concludes with policy recommendations for educational institutions and policymakers to foster environments that strengthen national identity and promote a sense of responsibility toward Uzbekistan, ensuring that international education supports the cultivation of globally aware yet culturally rooted future leaders. Additionally, recommendations are given to Uzbek female students studying abroad to help them maintain their cultural identity, adapt effectively to new environments, and leverage their international experiences for the benefit of Uzbekistan upon their return.

Role of Cultural Graphics Strategies in Shaping Urban Identity: A Quantitative Study of User Perception in Qinzhou City

The paper attempts to investigate the role that street art, murals, and other signage play in forming and defining urban identity through research on Qinzhou City, Guangxi, China. The study employs a quantitative approach and structural equation modeling (SEM-PLS), which examines the interaction among cultural identity, social identity, media consumption, personal values, and beliefs and how these interact to affect cultural perception. Results of the study indicate that both cultural identity and social identity have significant influences on cultural perception, with media consumption and personal values and beliefs acting as critical mediators. Cultural Identity fosters the connection of personal beliefs strongly, whereas Social Identity tends to drive media consumption behaviors that affect cultural understanding. The study provides theoretical and practical implications for urban planners, policymakers, and media strategists in exploiting cultural graphics to improve urban cultural environments. Despite its limitations in geographical scope, the study provides useful insights into the intersection of cultural and social dynamics and offers a model for urban cultural policy and development strategies.

EXPRESS: Diversity Matters: How Film Critic Ratings Vary with Critic and Movie Cast Racial Profiles

The author explores how racial alignment between film critics and movie casts affects critic ratings and their market implications. Testing the hypothesis of cultural affinity, this research finds that critics’ ratings tend to decrease as the proportion of Black cast members increases, but this effect is mitigated when the critic is Black. A text analysis of critics’ review excerpts suggests the presence of two tenets of cultural affinity: cultural literacy and cultural identity. An online survey further demonstrates that, in the absence of self-selection, Black respondents perceive greater affinity toward movies featuring predominantly Black casts and assign higher ratings to trailers featuring racially similar casts. Two additional analyses show that critic ratings have market consequences: as the proportion of Black cast members rises, critic ratings diverge more from audience choices (box office revenue) and audience ratings, though this effect is mitigated when the critics are Black. These findings underscore the importance of racial diversity in promoting culturally representative content in the marketplace.

Chronicles of an era: themes in Arar’s poetry

Chronicles of an era: themes in Arar’s poetry

Design and Development of Oil Paper Umbrella Patterns to Convey the Identity of Yiyang City to the New Generation of Customers

Background and Aim: Yiyang, a city renowned for its vibrant local culture within Hunan Province, has cultural traditions that significantly influence both local and wider communities. This study aims to: 1) examine the elements defining Yiyang's local culture and identity, and 2) create oil paper umbrella patterns that resonate with young consumers to enhance the promotion of this cultural identity. Materials and Methods: Using a combination of literature reviews, website surveys, and expert interviews, the study maps out the cultural landscape of Yiyang. Results: Findings categorize Yiyang’s identity into four main elements: traditional customs, scenic locations, handicrafts, and local cuisine. Traditional customs are mainly represented by the Yiyang Dihua Drum and Mugwort Dragon Boat Race; scenic areas are represented by the old tea-horse route, Mountain Yuntai, and Dongting Lake; handicrafts are represented by an oil-paper umbrella, Xiaoyu Bamboo Art, and Meishan Paper Cutting; and local food is mainly represented by Anhua Black Tea, Ma Xiang Cake, and Yuanjiang Asparagus. The cultural elements of Yiyang are cleverly integrated into the design of the oil paper umbrellas, reflecting the cultural connotation of Yiyang through the pattern design, making it a carrier for spreading the culture of Yiyang, which has important cultural significance and market value. Conclusion: The study not only deepens the understanding of Yiyang’s cultural identity but also successfully translates these elements into appealing product designs targeted at young consumers, thereby enhancing both cultural appreciation and market value.

Enabler of Madrasah Education: The Case of LGU-Supported Traditional Madrasah in General Santos City

This study explored the enablers of Madrasah education programs, focusing on locally-led efforts of the Local Government Unit of General Santos to support the traditional Madrasahs in the city, recognizing the vital role of traditional madrasah education in promoting religious and cultural identity as well as social cohesion. This research analyzed the key factors contributing to these educational initiatives' effective implementation and sustainability. A case study method approach was utilized, including surveys and interviews. The findings revealed several critical enablers, such as active community involvement, government assistance, and capacity building. This paper underscores the significance of the all-of-the-community approach in creating an inclusive educational environment that meets the needs of Muslim learners. Hence, the analysis concluded that contextual factors such as social, economic, environmental, and political dimensions affect the implementation of the traditional Madrasah in General Santos City. The study recommends the standardization of the traditional Madrasah Curriculum, considering the nuances of Muslim communities in General Santos.

Arnis in Physical Activities Towards Health and Fitness (Pathfit) 3 and 4 Courses: A Deep Dive into Faculty Experiences in Teaching Arnis

Filipino Martial Arts (FMA), or Arnis, embodies the rich martial arts heritage of the Philippines, utilizing various weapons for combat and self-defense (Martin et al., 2018). Recognized as the national martial art and sport through Republic Act 9850 in 2009, Arnis has since gained a formal place in education. This study explores faculty experiences teaching Arnis in Physical Activities Towards Health and Fitness (PATHFit) 3 and 4 courses across colleges and universities in Central Luzon (Region III). Employing Colaizzi's 7-step phenomenological technique, with data gathered through interviews and audio-visual recordings, the study uncovers five key themes: (1) The Pedagogical and Cultural Significance of Including Arnis in the Curriculum (2) Enhancing Student Safety and Holistic Development through Arnis (3) Fostering Social Connections, Personal Growth, and Cultural Integration through Arnis (4) Addressing Challenges and Promoting Engagement in Arnis Education and, (5) Enhancing the Teaching and Promotion. Findings revealed that Arnis education transcends physical instruction, fostering cultural pride, resilience, and personal growth among educators and students. Faculty members experienced professional transformation, adopting innovative teaching methods to sustain cultural heritage while addressing modern educational demands. For students, integrating Arnis into PATHFit courses boosted confidence, discipline, and community involvement, strengthening their cultural identity. This study underscores the significance of Arnis as a culturally relevant educational tool that bridges traditional practices with contemporary fitness education. The findings advocate for the development of dynamic, culturally inclusive curricula and faculty training programs, ensuring the sustained relevance of Arnis in academic and societal contexts. By preserving this martial art, educators can inspire both personal development and community cohesion, reinforcing Arnis as a symbol of Filipino identity.

Framing the Nation: Landscape Photography and Cultural Identity in the Young Companion

The Young Companion (良友), a bilingual magazine established in Shanghai in 1926, significantly influenced early 20th-century Chinese culture. Recognized for diverse content including fashion and politics, it notably utilized landscape photography to bridge cultural gaps during a period of modernization and instability. This media not only portrayed China's geographical diversity but also acted as a unifying force, connecting fragmented populations through shared cultural roots. By using iconic landscapes as metaphors for resilience and unity, the magazine reinforced national identity through visual narratives. These images served as cultural archives and political tools that underscored the harmonious relationship between China's natural landscapes and its cultural heritage, aligning with concepts like Benedict Anderson's "imagined community." This interplay of media and cultural identity profoundly shaped Chinese public perceptions amid socio-political challenges.

“Diasporic Identity: A Transnational Consciousness”- in Rai’s There is a Carnival Today

The novel, Aja Ramita Chha by Indra Bahadur Rai translated as There is a Carnival Today in English by \Manjushree Thapa has been viewed applying concept of hybridity and diaspora of postcolonial theory as methodological tools propounded by Homi K Bhabha to analyze cultural identity of diaspora. Cultural identity of diaspora is hybridized because of affiliation and connectedness to both home land and host land. Identity of old diaspora connected to nation is replaced by new diaspora associated with trans -nation and globalization. The researcher has focused to answer the questions such as, how is the cultural identity of diaspora hybridized? What are the experiences that diasporas feel while living in in-between position? The researcher has used theory of diaspora to show the cultural affiliation with home land, and theory of transnationalism to explain mobility of the characters crossing the border. The concept of hybridity under diaspora has been applied to analyze the cultural aspect of the characters living in- between positions in the host land. The finding of the research is that diasporas living in the host land live through dual identity, double consciousness, conflicted mentality, divided self and hybrid identity because of their contentedness and affiliation to both land of origin and land of destination.