Foster Dialogue Research Articles

The Dilemma of Free Speech: Confrontations and Restrictions in Pakistan

In Pakistan, the pursuit of freedom of expression encounters a complex landscape marked by aspirations for an open society and significant challenges and restrictions. This article explores the multifaceted dilemma of free speech in Pakistan, addressing the tensions between individual liberties, societal norms, political interests, and security concerns. Legal constraints, particularly blasphemy laws and defamation statutes, hinder free expression, while political dynamics, including authoritarian governance and the influence of religious extremism, exacerbate confrontations and restrictions. Journalists face threats and harassment, and the digital sphere is subject to increased censorship. Societal attitudes rooted in religious conservatism, honor culture, and patriarchal structures perpetuate self-censorship and conformity. Despite these challenges, voices of resistance persist, including civil society organizations and human rights activists advocating for pluralism and accountability. The research aims to analyze the legal, political, social, and cultural factors shaping the dilemma of free speech in Pakistan, highlighting the need to address root causes, foster dialogue, and promote tolerance for progress towards a more open and inclusive society.

Race Talk: Assessing Awareness and Mood After a Difficult Dialogue

Facilitating racial dialogue in higher education is challenging and taxing for instructors and students. Race, racism, implicit bias, and microaggressions are all topics that evoke strong emotions in a classroom. This can be especially challenging at a predominantly white institution. Facilitators must develop and assess pedagogical approaches for navigating these contentious spaces. This paper assesses an implicit bias lesson plan designed to educate, foster dialogue, and cultivate inclusive spaces. The lesson plan, Association Awareness, utilizes the Harvard Implicit Association Test to measure implicit attitudes. We use the Bias Awareness Scale to measure the effectiveness of the lesson plan and present findings on mood, bias awareness, explicitly stated racial preferences, and implicit racial associations. Results suggest that participation in the Association Awareness lesson significantly increased bias awareness in predominantly white undergraduates without negatively impacting their mood. Implications for action and future research are discussed.

Navigating the Postmodern Landscape: Embracing Interdisciplinary Openness in Pastoral Theology

In the face of rising secularization and the waning influence of the Church, contemporary pastoral theology encounters both a formidable challenge and an enticing opportunity in the postmod­ern era. This article explores how enhanced interdisciplinary engagement of pastoral theology can fos­ter a renewed approach to evangelization aligned with contemporary sensibilities. Through a compre­hensive literature review, we shed light on the experiences of the postmodern individual. By applying the analogy method and anchoring the concepts of “Logos Spermaticos” and “Influence and Vulnerabil­ity” in pastoral theology, we reveal its potential contribution to the interdisciplinary evolution of the con­cept of universal fraternity. The analysis shows that interdisciplinary collaboration in pastoral theology unfolds developmental prospects on two levels – learning from and learning with other disciplines. The “Logos Spermaticos” concept underscores the importance of acquiring new skills, empowering pastoral workers to communicate Christian doctrine more effectively. Simultaneously, the “Influence and Vulner­ability” concept fosters a dialogical approach, positioning pastoral theology as a respected interlocutor in contemporary interdisciplinary dialogues. Collaborative efforts with other disciplines empower pastoral theology to foster dialogue and deepen the idea of universal fraternity, both in academic discourse and practical application. The interdisciplinary and global development of fraternal humanism represents the necessary “loosening of the soil” for the seed of the Word of God to sprout in the future. Therefore, it becomes imperative for pastoral theology to transcend its conventional role, actively engaging in inter­disciplinary dialogue, thereby charting a course toward an elevated societal role and innovative avenues for proclaiming the Gospel.

Labor Market Information System: A Review of Some Practices

Accurate and up-to-date labor market information system, which is conducted with the involvement of public decision markers, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) practitioners, employers and their associations, employee associations, training providers and learners, is an essential feature of a successful TVET system. Similarly, engagement of multiple TVET stakeholders is an important component of overall skills development system which leads to developing responsive labor market skill needs, supporting prioritized economic sectors to foster dialogue among the stakeholders to maintain balance demand and supply of labor right. It enhances integration of labor market requirements in the overall training and skills development cycle and ensures that trainees acquire market-relevant skills for their employability and self-employment. In the context of changing labor market conditions, collecting, compiling, analyzing, and disseminating current and future needs from the TVET customers can support better matching for training and employment. As labor markets are constantly evolving and changing, labor market analysis therefore needs to be conducted on a regular basis so that real time labor market information can be obtained. But the active and regular labor market information process is underexplored in a developing country like Nepal. The main objective of the article is to explore the common practices of Nepali labor market information system and the problems faced by the TVET system. Thus, the article addresses the information gap by diving deep into the clear understanding of labor market, practices of labor market information processes in some South Asian countries, including Nepal and issues and challenges facing the Nepali labor market information process.

Learning About Resilience from Rural Interprofessional Healthcare Teams: Insights from the “First Wave” of COVID-19

Building resilience is a key concern for adult educators today as we face unprecedented global challenges such as the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). Nowhere is this more apparent than in educational initiatives with health professionals who experience many stressors in their work, now amplified by the pandemic. This paper reports the results of focus groups with three interprofessional primary healthcare teams in rural Nova Scotia, Canada, in the fall of 2021. The aim was to learn about their lived experience during the first year of the pandemic, as a basis for considering how resilience could be nurtured and supported in rural team-based collaborative practices settings. Findings reveal that, while each collaborative team experienced recognized COVID-19 workplace stressors, they leveraged a store of collective resilience to navigate the pandemic. The trust, sense of purpose, and shared problem-solving skills they derived from working in collaborative structures over time enabled them to regain equilibrium and to adapt to new norms, and to transform thier practices. The study highlights the power of collaborative learning to strengthen overall ability for resilient performance, and the adaptive capacity that is required to deliver and sustain quality healthcare. The study highlights the need for continuing professional education that values naturally occurring practice-based learning. Adult educators are well positioned to support health professionals and health systems to nurture and support resilient action. They bring an understanding of effective collaborative tools and processes that foster dialogue and collective awareness that leads to a shared identity and understanding. As this study reveals, it is this shared identity and capacity arising within a group that enables them to draw on their collective sources of support to deal with adversity.

Integrating Miao Traditional Elements into Chinese Figure Painting: Exploring Significance and Cross-Cultural Exchange

This paper endeavors to investigate the utilization of Miao traditional elements in Chinese figure painting, assessing its significance and potential value in the realm of Chinese painting creation. The study examines the contemporary landscape of Chinese figure painting, identifying its prevailing issues, while also delving into the fundamental characteristics and application techniques of traditional Miao elements. By analyzing the works of prominent artists Pang Xunqin, Liu Quanyi, and Feng Yuanming, who have adeptly incorporated Miao traditional elements into their paintings, this research aims to bolster the preservation and perpetuation of Miao cultural heritage, augment the artistic expression within Chinese paintings, and foster cross-cultural exchanges and dialogues. Employing a qualitative research approach, this investigation adopts literature review and artwork analysis to discuss the integration of Miao traditional elements in Chinese figure painting. The research findings illustrate that the traditional elements inherent to the Miao ethnicity exude unparalleled artistic allure and cultural significance within Chinese figure paintings, thereby presenting novel creative resources and modes of expression for the wider domain of Chinese artistic creation. This research contributes to the enrichment of Chinese artistic heritage while facilitating a harmonious exchange of cultural values between the Miao minority and the broader Chinese cultural landscape.

Sparking Dynamic Dialogue on Everyday Solutions through Solution Mapping Cards

The contemporary world is amid a dynamic and transformative phase characterised by fundamental shifts, leading to complex environmental, socioeconomic, healthcare, and social challenges. This convergence of multifaceted requires a holistic and innovative approach to ensure a sustainable and harmonious global future. Design for social innovation has introduced novel expertise and methodologies, leveraging the dynamics inherent in social systems to create impactful solutions by actively engaging stakeholders to understand contextual perspectives and minimise knowledge gaps. Solution Mapping Tools facilitate communities to delve into the significance of local needs and assets in addressing everyday societal challenges. Incorporate within these tools, Solution Mapping Cards foster dialogue and understanding by transforming abstract concepts into tangible representations. The main topic resulting from this article revolves around the evolving nature of design thinking, the role of designers in addressing complex problems, and the practical implications of using tools such as Solution Mapping Cards.

Role-Play Simulations for Decision Making in Contexts of Uncertainty: Challenges and Strategies When Engaging Elites as Participants

ABSTRACTThis study explores the application of role-play simulations (RPS) in addressing complex challenges (e.g., the climate crisis) beyond traditional educational settings. Drawing from pilot simulations involving 12 scientific experts and 12 policy makers, the article identifies three key challenges in conducting RPS with elite participants and provides practical strategies for overcoming them. Namely, the article emphasizes the importance of adapting the scenarios to sociopolitical contexts, choosing an ethical recruiting method to ensure inclusivity, and managing group diversity while maintaining a balance between the playfulness and the seriousness of the simulation. Overall, our study underscores the potential of RPS to foster dialogue between scientific and political actors and provides practical guidance for their effective use.

Situational Syllabus in Vocabulary English for Nursing Book: Occupational Purposes

This aims to design a syllabus for "Vocabulary English for Nursing" book for occupational purposes with a specific focus on enhancing vocabulary acquisition, speaking proficiency, and pronunciation skills. This study utilizes ADDIE primarily focusing on the Analysis and Design stages. The syllabus results in ten units, each unit was designed to foster dialogue practices, simple expressions, and vocabulary enrichment. The learning competencies integrated into this syllabus align with the Independent User B1 of CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment. The outcome of this study includes a designed syllabus for "Vocabulary English for Nursing" book and the organization of the book. Future research will cover the further stages.

Studi Komparasi Al-Qur’an dan Tripitaka: Landasan Moderasi Beragama untuk Kerukunan Masyarakat Indoneisa

A number of surveys have shown a trend towards radicalism and intolerance, especially in relation to cases of harmony in social life between religious communities. This research aims to foster interfaith dialogue efforts by comparing the messages contained in the Holy Qur'an and Tripitaka as a basis for religious moderation. This research is a library research that uses a descriptive-comparative approach to observe the comparison of values and messages of religious moderation contained in the Qur'an and Tripitaka. The results show that in the implementation of the values in the Tripitaka, Buddhism emphasises the aspect of mysticism. In contrast, Islam in the Qur'an highlights the practical aspects that can be the foundation for living a just, harmonious and peaceful life.

How to make a collaborative videography using Phygital affordances to study sensitive topics

PurposeThe physical filmmaking landscape has been transformed by the emergence of digital platforms that foster interaction and dialogue. The accessibility and affordability of mobile production tools have empowered anyone with a mobile phone to become a media content creator. Accordingly, this paper aims to present a multi-method approach for creating phygital projects that involve people as active participants rather than mere subjects who collaborate with the researchers to tell their stories.Design/methodology/approachResearch participants can embrace diverse roles, serving as co-researchers, content creators, curators and collaborators. The authors use various engagement strategies with the research participants, who are often marginalized or underrepresented, to encourage their participation and give them agency and creative control. Thus, we also use a participatory action research approach to help advocate for the participants’ facial equality concerns.FindingsCollaborative videography embraces the mosaic of voices expressing intricate social issues. In this project, research participants with “facial differences” explain their experiences in facing society.Originality/valueBy experimenting with participatory frameworks and combining physical interactions (such as in-person meetings) with digital platforms like Zoom and social media, the authors suggest a multi-method approach that honors the authentic stories of the research participants, effectively engages the audience and explains how phygital research methodologies can be used in interpretive consumer research, particularly in co-creating films that capture strong visuals.

Tribalism and Cultural Discontent in the Middle East

The Middle East has long been characterized by political instability, violent conflicts, and cultural tensions. In recent years, the re-emergence of tribalism has further contributed to the deterioration of peace in the region. This essay investigates the influence of tribalism on cultural discontent and violence in the Middle East, arguing that it reinforces identity politics, exacerbates sectarianism, and undermines democratic values. These factors, in turn, fuel conflicts and hinder peace-building endeavors. The essay explores specific instances where tribalism has escalated violence, emphasizing the challenges of addressing its root causes. For a comprehensive understanding, there is a need to examine historical and contemporary factors that contribute to tribalism's growth and persistence. The complex interplay between tribalism and other socio-political dynamics highlights how these interactions exacerbate regional instability. The essay concludes by advocating for increased attention to cultural aspects of conflict and the necessity for more effective strategies to foster intercultural dialogue and understanding in the region.

2nd World Congress on Undergraduate Research, University of Oldenburg, Germany

The 2nd World Congress on Undergraduate Research, held at the University of Oldenburg, Germany, May 23-25, 2019, aimed to foster global dialogue across diverse research disciplines. It brought together exceptional undergraduate researchers to collaborate on pressing international challenges of the 21st century. The event featured six interdisciplinary themes that allowed students to present and discuss their research in lectures and poster sessions, and was framed by a two-day social program. In total, 467 participants from 35 countries and 98 universities presented their work. More than 60 students from low-income countries benefited from travel grants and the “beds for brains” program which organized private accommodations. This article outlines the concepts, organizational challenges, and evaluation results of the congress.

School climate and culture mind frames—Belonging, identities, and equity: A Delphi study

The climate and culture of a school is a key predictor of student engagement, motivation, and achievement. This study investigates ways of detecting educators’ ways of thinking about three major dimensions of culture and climate: developing a sense of belonging, identities, and equity. A Delphi study was used to identify the highest priority mindframes. For the first round, 25 mindframes were identified, and 47 experts were invited to rate and comment. In the second round, 82 experts responded to a reduced set of 19 items. This study shows the core elements of how educators see the culture and climate of their schools and classrooms, and the resulting set of questions can be used to foster further dialogue and improvements to schools.

French Narrative Theory and the Boom of Chinese Narrative Studies

The 1980s, an era in the wake of opening-up policy after the cultural revolution, witnessed an unprecedented passion for Chinese critics to read, embrace and import Western theories, among which French narrative theory deserves a particular mention. To a large extent, it is French narrative theory that has led to the upsurge and explosion of Chinese narrative studies, which prevails in the 21st century. This paper, first of all, connects the boom of Chinese narrative studies with French narrative theory which was translated and warmly received in Chinese academia in the 1980s. Second, it attempts to examine the travelling, the impact and the after-life of French narrative theory in China, arguing that inspired by their French predecessors, Chinese narrative theorists have cultivated their increasing interest in the narrative form of literary works and developed Chinese narratology with special reference to Chinese narrative traditions. Third, it investigates how Chinese narratologists foster theoretical dialogues with their French colleagues by challenging and revising some narratological concepts. Finally, it calls for a narratology beyond French structuralism by proposing comparative and transcultural perspectives on narrative studies with the aim to draw scholarly attention to those neglected and peripheral narratives and to subvert the hegemony of Anglo-American narrative theory.

Future of Uniform Civil Code in India: Strategies for Effective Implementation and Social Acceptance

The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) remains a contentious and pivotal issue in India's legal and social discourse, aiming to unify personal laws across religious communities under a common civil code. This paper explores strategies for effectively implementing UCC while addressing challenges related to social acceptance in the diverse socio-cultural fabric of India. The introduction provides a comprehensive overview of the historical context and constitutional mandate of UCC under Article 44, highlighting its significance for promoting legal uniformity, gender equality, and social justice. The literature review synthesizes existing scholarship on UCC in India, examining legal precedents, policy debates, and public opinion. It identifies key challenges hindering UCC implementation, including constitutional complexities, religious diversity, federalism, and concerns about minority rights and cultural practices. Building on this foundation, the methodology outlines a qualitative approach incorporating analysis of legal documents, policy documents, court judgments, and insights from stakeholders and experts. It discusses the rationale for selected methodologies to address research questions effectively. Strategies for overcoming implementation challenges are proposed, encompassing legal reforms, public awareness campaigns, community consultations, engagement with religious leaders, and capacity-building for judiciary and legal professionals. These strategies aim to foster dialogue, understanding, and consensus among diverse communities. The paper also examines the role of education, media, civil society, and advocacy groups in promoting social acceptance of UCC. Case studies from other countries provide comparative insights into successful approaches to managing similar legal reforms.

Promoting Sustainable Development Goal 5 Through Ubuntu-Based South African Basic Education Curriculum

Gender inequality is a pervasive problem worldwide and achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5) of gender equality is crucial for social progress. In South Africa, gender disparities persist in primary and secondary education, hindering girls' access to quality education and opportunities. This study explores the application of the Ubuntu socio-cultural principle in addressing SDG 5 in South Africa. Ubuntu, an African philosophy emphasizing interconnectedness and humaneness, offers insights into fostering social justice and equality. By integrating Ubuntu principles into education, South African secondary schools can promote inclusive classrooms, gender sensitization programs, peer support, and mentorship. Inclusive education ensures equal participation and opportunities for all students, fostering respect for diversity. Gender sensitization programs raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and promote empathy and understanding. Peer support and mentorship programs create a supportive network, breaking gender barriers and fostering positive role modelling. Applying Ubuntu principles in South African secondary schools can contribute to achieving SDG 5 by creating an inclusive and respectful educational environment that values and respects all students, regardless of gender. By promoting empathy, understanding, and collective responsibility, Ubuntu can help challenge harmful gender norms and foster dialogue, collaboration, and transformative change towards gender equality.

Teacher Leadership Interrogates Teaching Policy: Comparing the Voices of Low-Income Schools with National Teacher Policies in Argentina

This article analyses how low-income schools and teacher education policies in Argentina describe the idealised “good” teacher. One of the crucial foundations of teacher leadership is related to teachers’ professional abilities. This study aims to problematise the fragile discursive constructions of what counts as effective and good teaching in both low-income schools' actors and teacher education policy documents. As previous research has confirmed teacher ability is contextual and a highly controversial topic. How low-income school actors describe, interpret and enact good teaching might differ from national teaching policy guidelines and standards. This study attempts to address the following research questions. First, what factors do low-income school actors and Argentinean educational policies highlight regarding teachers’ professional ability? Second, does a teacher’s professional ability refer to teacher leadership? Finally, what are the implications of the gap between the perspectives of low-income schools and the official teaching policy for knowledge production and educational policy? The findings provide a framework to understand the current limited status of teacher leadership in Argentina. Through the historical normalist genesis of the Argentinean educational system that fostered homogenisation as a crucial technology of schooling, and an epistemological bias that deemed the low-income perspective as unscientific the article shed light on the status of teacher leadership. Finally, the research suggests bridges to foster dialogues between teaching policies and low-income schools.

Historical Roots of Interethnic Harmony and Tolerance in Uzbekistan

Objectives: This article explores the historical roots of interethnic harmony and tolerance in Uzbekistan, a country situated in Central Asia. Uzbekistan has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with a long history of different ethnic groups coexisting and interacting within its borders. The paper examines key historical periods and events that have shaped the foundations of interethnic harmony in the region.
 
 Methods: The article begins by delving into the ancient history of Uzbekistan, highlighting the influence of various civilizations and empires, such as the Persian, Greek, and Arab empires. These interactions fostered cultural exchange, religious pluralism, and linguistic diversity, laying the groundwork for a society that embraced differences and valued coexistence. Furthermore, the paper explores the legacy of the Silk Road, which played a pivotal role in connecting different regions and facilitating trade and cultural exchange. The Silk Road brought together merchants, scholars, and artisans from diverse backgrounds, fostering cross-cultural understanding and tolerance.
 
 Results: The article also examines the impact of Islam on interethnic relations in Uzbekistan. Islam arrived in the region during the 8th century and became a unifying force, transcending ethnic boundaries. The spread of Sufism, a mystical branch of Islam, further promoted a spirit of harmony and acceptance, emphasizing the importance of spirituality over divisions based on ethnicity or social status. Moreover, the article discusses the Soviet era and its effect on interethnic relations. During this period, the Soviet government implemented policies aimed at promoting equality and unity among different ethnic groups. Education and employment opportunities were made accessible to all, fostering a sense of shared identity and promoting social cohesion. Finally, the article examines contemporary Uzbekistan, highlighting the efforts of the government in promoting interethnic harmony and tolerance. The country has adopted policies that protect minority rights, encourage cultural diversity, and foster dialogue among different ethnic groups. Initiatives such as language and cultural festivals, interethnic marriages, and inclusive education programs contribute to a society where diversity is celebrated and valued.
 Conclusion: In conclusion, Uzbekistan's historical roots of interethnic harmony and tolerance can be traced back to its ancient civilizations, the Silk Road, the influence of Islam, and the policies implemented during the Soviet era. These factors have shaped a society that embraces diversity and promotes peaceful coexistence among its various ethnic groups. Understanding and appreciating these historical foundations are crucial for fostering continued harmony and tolerance in Uzbekistan and beyond.

The Complex Terrain of Equity for Multilingual Learners in K–12 Education

The field of multilingual learner education has become increasingly complex, with longstanding efforts focused on promoting access to multilingual learners being criticized for failing to transform systems responsible for these students’ marginalization. This essay brings clarity to the complex terrain of equity for multilingual learners in K–12 education by highlighting how conceptions of equity as access and as transformation underpin vexing issues in the field related to (a) how learners are categorized, (b) what is being learned, and (c) what instructional arrangements facilitate learning. The essay closes by proposing ways forward across research, policy, and practice toward shaping a field that is mutually engaged yet productively diverse as well as better positioned to foster interdisciplinary dialogue with other fields.