Linguistic Barriers Research Articles

Innovating Community Engagement: The Role of Micro-Influencers in Promoting Sustainable Behaviors among Malaysian Millennials

Social Influencers as environmental leaders utilize social media platforms to enhance community engagement in advocating sustainability. This study explores the underexplored role of micro-influencers in fostering pro-environmental behaviors among Malaysian youths and innovating community engagement by employing a qualitative approach in conducting semi-structured interviews with five micro-influencers. Our findings indicate the critical role of micro-influencers in raising awareness and actively engaging communities in adopting sustainable practices. The findings reveal three key themes: leadership qualities, pro-environmental behaviors, and persuasive narrative strategies. Through the innovative use of social media, these influencers overcome linguistic and geographical barriers, fostering enhanced community engagement in the pursuit of environmental stewardship. However, the sample size of five micro-influencers may limit the generalizability of the findings, as it may only partially represent the diverse range of micro-influencers. The result of this research can be used as recommendations for organizations, non-governmental organizations and governmental bodies that can leverage the insights from this study to strategically engage micro-influencers in environmental campaigns, recognizing their unique ability to reach and resonate with specific communities, particularly Malaysian youths. This study offers a novel perspective on digital environmental leadership by uncovering the unique role of micro-influencers in fostering community engagement and cultivating a culture of sustainability. It provides original insights into how these emerging leaders not only inspire but also empower communities to take meaningful action toward environmental preservation. The study highlights the underexamined potential of micro-influencers in exceeding traditional barriers to community engagement, offering valuable implications for future strategies in environmental advocacy.

Interpreter Intervention: Balancing Objectivity and Subjectivity in Business Negotiations

In the era of economic globalization, interactions and collaborations between China and the global economy have significantly intensified. This trend has led to increased foreign investment in China and a growing number of Chinese enterprises expanding their operations internationally. Successful business negotiations are crucial for these endeavors, yet they face challenges such as linguistic barriers, cultural differences, and divergent thought processes. In such high-stakes scenarios, an experienced interpreter serves as a vital communication link between Chinese and international parties. This paper aims to examine the role of dialogue interpretation in business negotiations and to investigate how interpreters can effectively leverage their subjective judgment alongside strategic translation techniques. By doing so, interpreters can facilitate smoother negotiations and contribute to mutually beneficial outcomes. The study will explore specific strategies that enable interpreters to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps, thereby promoting successful and harmonious negotiations.

Handover of intensive care patients

An effective patient handover is a core element of high-quality patient care. Communication during patient handover in the intensive care unit is particularly challenging due to the clinical complexity and rapid changes in patient trajectories, complex interdisciplinary and interprofessional interfaces, linguistic barriers, situational and structural disruptive factors, personnel stress factors as well as the communication and error culture of the teams. In addition to avoiding disruptive factors and creating optimal communication conditions and human resources, the use of standardized and structured handovers with the help of protocols and checklists, as recommended in the literature, plays a decisive role as part of a bundle of measures for effective and safe patient care.

Exploring linguistic and cultural barriers in literary translation: an analysis of undergraduate students' strategies and challenges in translating Albanian texts into English

Purpose: Investigate the challenges undergraduate students face when translating Albanian literary texts into English, focusing on the cultural and linguistic considerations that impact the translation process and the concept of translation loss. Methodology: Qualitative analysis of the translation methods used by non-English-speaking students, examining the types of cultural loss, challenges, and solutions encountered. Data were collected by studying translated excerpts from the Albanian literary work "Prilli i Thyer" (Broken April), with attention to the strategies employed by students to address translation challenges. Findings: Students predominantly used literal translation, resulting in implicit, modified, and complete cultural losses. Key challenges included translating Albanian cultural words, idiomatic expressions, and grammatical differences. Despite these challenges, students demonstrated proficiency and versatility in literary translation, employing strategies such as adaptation, direct translation, borrowing, and omission. Implications: The findings highlight the need for enhanced cultural competence and linguistic skills in translation education. Recommendations include using Albanian-Albanian dictionaries and a deeper engagement with Albanian culture to improve translation accuracy and reduce cultural loss. Recommendations: Students should be encouraged to develop a comprehensive understanding of the source culture and to utilize creative translation solutions. Peer collaboration and feedback are also recommended to refine translation skills and strategies. Conclusion: This research contributes to the field of translation studies by shedding light on the intricacies of translating Albanian literature into English. It underscores the importance of cultural sensitivity and linguistic proficiency in producing accurate and culturally resonant translations, ultimately fostering a more interconnected and diverse literary world

Using Illustrated Children’s Book to Strength Fracted / Cracks Identity of (the Israeli) Children

Illustrations in children's books serve as powerful aesthetic devices to address complex emotions and ideologies, particularly in war-torn regions. These visual narratives act as catalysts for moral, value-based, and political discussions, offering a wordless medium that invites diverse interpretations based on the observer's perspective. This approach creates an open dialogue where there are no absolute right or wrong answers. Children's literature, through its illustrations, becomes a significant agent of socialization. These books impart cultural values, ideological concepts, and political behavior patterns, functioning as tools for establishing culturally responsive pedagogy. The images discussed, while originating from Israeli children's books predating the 2023 conflict, possess a timeless and universal quality that transcends their immediate context. Illustrations in children's books can either complement or diverge from the accompanying text, offering varying degrees of precision or poetic license. They carry cultural connotations that encompass symbols, traditions, beliefs, behaviors, and values unique to a particular society, conveying information beyond the apparent narrative. The inherent power of illustration lies in its ability to communicate directly with young children, often without the need for adult mediation. In preschool literature, illustrations serve multiple functions: they parallel written words, demonstrate abstract concepts, provide concrete representations of characters and settings, emphasize or contradict textual elements, and expand the narrative through visual elements not present in the text. Moreover, illustrations possess a psychological-therapeutic function, contributing to indirect treatment techniques. Like all visual representations, they embody simplified messages and shape recognition, conveyed formally and tangibly, with each element having both conscious and unconscious effects on the Therapeutic visual qualities in illustrated books aim to capture emotional nuances, intensify expressions of feeling, and convey concepts that may be challenging to express verbally. This is achieved through original solutions such as symbolism and creative visual metaphors. In conclusion, illustrations in children's books, particularly those addressing complex themes like war and fear, offer a unique and powerful medium for fostering understanding, encouraging dialogue, and providing emotional support. Their ability to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers makes them invaluable tools in shaping young minds and addressing challenging societal issues.

The Impact of Multilingualism on Second Language Acquisition: A Study of Cognitive and Linguistic Proficiency Among Ethnic Minority Groups

This study investigates the cognitive and linguistic differences in second language acquisition (SLA) among multilingual H'mong and Tay students compared to monolingual Kinh students in Vietnam. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study examined cognitive proficiency, including working memory and cognitive flexibility, as well as linguistic proficiency in English, focusing on vocabulary size, syntactic knowledge, and phonological accuracy. Quantitative data from cognitive and linguistic tests were analyzed using MANOVA, while qualitative data from focus group discussions provided insights into the sociocultural influences on language learning. The findings reveal that H'mong and Tay students exhibited higher cognitive proficiency, particularly in working memory and cognitive flexibility, than their monolingual Kinh peers. However, despite their cognitive advantages, multilingual students faced greater challenges in English vocabulary acquisition, syntax, and phonological accuracy, likely due to structural differences between their native languages and English. The qualitative findings highlight the role of sociocultural factors, including limited access to resources and the desire to maintain cultural identity, in shaping language learning experiences among ethnic minority students. The study concludes that while multilingualism enhances cognitive abilities, ethnic minority students require targeted instructional support to overcome linguistic barriers in SLA. The findings have implications for language education policies, particularly in designing culturally sensitive curricula and improving access to quality English education in rural and ethnic minority communities.

A child-centred intercultural approach to the socio-educational inclusion of migrant and refugee children

The increasing trend of child migration, whether forced or voluntary, poses a challenge to policies aimed at ensuring social cohesion and protecting children's rights. Inclusive educational environments play a crucial role in the integration of migrant and refugee children by promoting intercultural dialogue and participation. This study aims to explore the potential of a child-centred approach to the socio-educational inclusion of migrant and refugee children in Europe, proposing a framework of inclusive interculturalism to address the specific challenges these children face in educational settings. A narrative review was conducted, examining a wide range of peer-reviewed sources to synthesise current knowledge on child-centred education and its applicability to migrant and refugee children. The review identifies key challenges in adopting a child-centred approach, including socio-cultural, linguistic and psychological barriers that hinder migrant and refugee children's full participation in education. It highlights the importance of promoting agency, cultural competence and emotional well-being through inclusive and intercultural educational practices. Implementing a child-centred, inclusive intercultural approach can promote social cohesion and reduce inequalities by ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, have access to quality education and opportunities for personal development. However, more empirical research is needed to translate these theoretical frameworks into practical interventions.

Overcoming Linguistic and Cultural Barriers in English Language Learning: An Exploration of Culturally Responsive Pedagogy

This study investigated the implementation and effectiveness of CRP in English language learning at Cebu Technological University-Tuburan Campus, addressing linguistic and cultural barriers for learners and explored diverse subcultures, including respondents’ religion, family structure, socioeconomic status, and educational attainment. Employing a mixed-methods design, the research utilized surveys and pre-post-tests with thirty-three respondents, and interviews with six informants to gather data. Findings revealed a broad age range, a predominance of female participants, and a religiously influenced demographic. The pre-post-test results demonstrated a significant improvement in overall written communication competencies, highlighting a substantial improvement in the application of morphological concepts in writing essays, coupled with sustained high proficiency in grammar. A multiple regression analysis identifies the varying influences of demographic factors on test scores. Teachers perceived CRP as a catalyst for inclusive education, emphasizing customized approaches aligned with cultural backgrounds. Thus, CRP positively impacts language learning outcomes in diverse educational settings. Recommendations include implementing an action plan to enhance language proficiency and overcome linguistic and cultural barriers in English language learning. Findings contribute to a broader understanding of CRP’s significant application in a culturally diverse educational context.

Challenges of Translating Idiomatic Expressions: A Cross-Linguistic Analysis at a University in Hanoi, Vietnam

This study investigates the challenges students face when translating idiomatic expressions between English and Vietnamese and explores how linguistic and cultural factors influence the translation process. Utilizing a combination of translation task analysis and focus group discussions, the research reveals that students frequently rely on literal translations, resulting in inaccurate or nonsensical outcomes due to their inability to grasp the figurative meanings of idioms. Cultural mismatches, particularly the absence of equivalent expressions in Vietnamese, further complicate translation efforts, leading to significant misunderstandings. Additionally, linguistic barriers, such as syntactic differences between English and Vietnamese, hinder students' ability to produce natural and accurate translations of idiomatic expressions. The findings emphasize the critical role of cultural knowledge and syntactic flexibility in effective idiomatic translation. To address these challenges, the study recommends that translation training programs place greater emphasis on idiomatic understanding and cross-cultural competence. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on idiomatic translation by highlighting the interplay of linguistic and cultural factors and suggesting strategies to enhance translation accuracy.

Telehealth for rare disease care, research, and education across the globe: A review of the literature by the IRDiRC telehealth task force

The International Rare Diseases Research Consortium (IRDiRC) Telehealth (TH) Task Force explored the use of TH for improving diagnosis, care, research, and education for rare diseases (RDs). The Task Force reviewed related literature published from January 2017 to August 2023, and identified various models and implementation strategies of TH for RD. The Task Force highlighted the reported value and benefits of using TH for RDs, along with the limitations and opportunities. The number of publications sharply increased since 2021, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the rapid adoption of TH in many healthcare settings. One of the major benefits of TH for RDs lies in its capacity to surmount geographical barriers, which helps in overcoming the constraints posed by limited numbers and geographical dispersion of specialists. This was evident during the pandemic when TH was used to maintain a level of continued medical care and research when face-to-face visits were severely restricted. TH, through which clinical research can be decentralized, can also facilitate and enhance RD research by decreasing burden, expanding access, and enhancing efficiency. This will be especially beneficial when coupled with the adoption of digital health technologies, such as mobile health (mHealth) and wearable devices for remote monitoring (i.e., surveillance of outpatient data transmitted through devices), along with big data solutions. TH has also been shown to be an effective means for RD education and peer mentoring, enabling local health care providers (HCPs) to care for RD patients, which indirectly ensures that RD patients get the expertise and multidisciplinary care they need. However, limitations and weaknesses associated with using TH for RD care and research were also identified, including the inability to perform physical examinations and build relationships with HCPs. Therefore, TH has been recommended as a complement to, rather than substitute for, face-to-face consultations. There is also a concern that TH may lead to an amplification of health disparities and inequities related to social determinants of health for those with RDs due to lack of access to TH technologies, inadequate digital literacy, and geographical, socio-cultural, and linguistic barriers. Finally, the Task Force also discussed evidence and knowledge gaps that will benefit from future research efforts to help advance and expand the use of TH for RD care, research, and education.

Advancing cross-cultural soundscape research: updates from the Soundscape Attributes Translation Project (SATP)

The Soundscape Attributes Translation Project (SATP) addresses linguistic barriers in soundscape research, translating ISO/TS 12913-2:2018 descriptors into various languages for global use. This paper presents recent updates from national working groups, including translations in Turkish, French, Indonesian, Albanian, Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Dutch, and Spanish. A preliminary validation of all the current 18 SATP translations assesses cross-cultural robustness. SATP employs diverse methods for translation, fostering international collaboration. The preliminary validation evaluates the reliability and validity of translated descriptors across languages. Most languages maintain the quasi-circumplex structure of the original soundscape model. English, Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Croatian, Dutch, German, Greek, Indonesian, Italian, Spanish, Swedish, and Turkish achieve a "High" confidence level. French, Japanese, Korean, Malay, Portuguese, and Vietnamese show varying confidence levels, emphasizing the need for rigorous validation criteria. SATP advances global soundscape research, with updates from national working groups contributing to cross-cultural relevance. Preliminary validation results affirm the quasi-circumplex structure's maintenance in most languages, emphasizing the project's commitment to comprehensive and globally applicable soundscape research instruments.

MHealth Apps in the Digital Marketplace for Pediatric Patients With Cancer: Systematic Search and Analysis.

The substantial increase in smartphone ownership has led to a rise in mobile health (mHealth) app use. Developing tailored features through mHealth apps creates a pathway to address the health care needs of pediatric patients with cancer and their families who have complex care needs. However, few apps are designed specifically to integrate with pediatric cancer care. This study reports a systematic search and analysis of mHealth apps available on the Apple App (iOS) and Google Play (Android) stores designed for pediatric cancer through a list of features that serve (1) patients, (2) caregivers, or (3) both audiences. Following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, we reviewed apps for pediatric patients with cancer and caregivers available as of January 30, 2024. We searched the Apple App and Google Play stores with a list of keyword combinations focusing on pediatric cancer care. The inclusion criteria were (1) specifically apps targeted toward pediatric patients with cancer, their families, or both; (2) available in either app store; and (3) available in English. Apps were assessed using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS). The MARS is a quality assessment for mHealth apps, including components of engagement, functionality, aesthetics, and informational quality (5-point Likert scale items-1: low and 5: high quality). In total, 22 apps were identified and 17 of those apps were available on both platforms. The most popular features (n=12) were resource sharing, symptom tracking, reminders, care team connections, journaling, community support, medication tracking, data visualizations, and appointment tracking. Features and interfaces were designed for caregivers (n=9) more frequently than the patients (n=7) while a subset of apps created options for both users (n=6). A total of 16 apps received positive reviews (mean 4.4, SD 0.59; Min=3.1, Max=5.0). A small subset (n=3) achieved over 5000 downloads; however, the majority (n=15) had fewer than 500. More than half (n=12) of the apps were not available in English. Apps requested access to a range of device functionalities to operate (mean 2.72, SD 3.13; Min=0, Max=10). Out of 22, a total of 17 apps were publicly accessible. The mean MARS scores for the apps ranged from 1.71 (SD 0.75) to 4.33 (SD 0.82). Overall, apps scored high on functionality (mean 3.72, SD 0.54) but low on engagement (mean 3.02, SD 0.93). Our review highlights the promising yet underdeveloped potential of mHealth apps in pediatric oncology care, underscoring the need for more inclusive, comprehensive, and integrative digital health solutions. Future developments should actively involve key stakeholders from the pediatric oncology community, including patients, families, and health care professionals, to ensure the apps meet specific needs while addressing linguistic and cultural barriers.

Impact of limited language proficiency on participation in venous thromboembolism research: a retrospective analysis

BackgroundLimited language proficiency is an established barrier to research participation among racialized populations. While prior studies have highlighted the underrepresentation of racialized populations in venous thromboembolism (VTE) research, the impact of limited language proficiency as a reason for nonconsent among eligible patients is unknown. ObjectivesTo determine the impact of language barrier as the primary reason for VTE research non-participation. MethodsWe reviewed all prospective VTE studies conducted at a research-intensive academic thrombosis research program in Canada between 2014 and 2024. Studies with screening logs that systematically and consecutively captured eligibility assessment and reasons for nonconsent were included. Primary outcome was nonconsent of a screen-eligible patient due to limited language proficiency as the reported reason. We derived pooled estimates of nonconsent due to limited language proficiency as a proportion of consented participants and determined subgroup rates by phase of VTE management, associated medical conditions, and recruitment settings. ResultsScreening logs of 28 studies with 22 057 screening events, 8317 screen-eligible patients, and 3320 consented participants were included. For every 100 consented participants, 3.2 (95% CI, 2.0-5.3) screen-eligible individuals were unable to provide consent due to limited language proficiency. Rates of nonconsent were highest in studies involving cancer (5.6 per 100 participants; 95% CI, 2.9-10.4) and in studies recruiting patients from ambulatory settings outside of the thrombosis clinic (10.8 per 100 participants; 95% CI, 4.8-22.6). ConclusionLanguage proficiency is a key barrier to VTE research participation. Urgent implementation of targeted interventions aimed at mitigating linguistic barriers is essential to ensure equitable opportunities for VTE research participation for racialized patients disproportionately affected by language proficiency.

Language learning technologies: A review of trends in the USA and globally

This review provides a succinct overview of the comprehensive review on language learning technologies, exploring key trends in both the United States and global contexts. The review delves into the transformative impact of technology on language education, examining emerging trends that shape the landscape of language learning methodologies. In recent years, language learning technologies have witnessed a remarkable evolution, revolutionizing traditional approaches to language education. This review critically analyzes trends in language learning technologies, focusing on their applications, effectiveness, and implications for language learners, with a specific emphasis on both the United States and global perspectives. The exploration of language learning technologies in the United States reveals a dynamic landscape characterized by innovative tools, platforms, and methodologies. From interactive language apps to virtual reality language immersion experiences, the USA has been at the forefront of adopting cutting-edge technologies to enhance language acquisition. The review assesses the success and challenges of these technologies in diverse educational settings, shedding light on their integration into formal education systems and informal learning environments. On a global scale, the review provides insights into how language learning technologies are shaping language education practices across different countries and regions. It examines the adoption of technology in diverse cultural and linguistic contexts, exploring the effectiveness of digital language learning resources in overcoming linguistic barriers and promoting multilingualism. Key trends identified in the review include the rise of artificial intelligence-driven language tutors, the gamification of language learning, and the increasing emphasis on personalized, adaptive learning experiences. Additionally, the review explores the impact of technology on fostering cultural competence and global communication skills, essential components of language proficiency in the interconnected world. The findings of this review contribute to a deeper understanding of the current state of language learning technologies, offering valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and researchers. By examining trends in the USA and globally, the review provides a comprehensive perspective on the role of technology in shaping the future of language education, paving the way for informed decisions and advancements in language learning methodologies.

Artificial Intelligence: An Experiential Learning Tool to Acquire Knowledge and Enhance Creativity

Higher education students are recognized for neglecting assigned readings hence, researchers explored artificial intelligence (AI) as an instrument of motivation; in the quest to satisfy this demand, another interference developed, English, a linguistic barrier. Multi-cultural disparities impede literacy, equally, AI natural language processing (NLP) and prompts require fluency and command of English, which can be a hindrance for the underprivileged. The research aimed to determine the potential of AI educational tools in facilitating learning. Empirically, exploratory design was espoused to uncover the reasons behind college students’ lack of interest in reading and identify factors that can motivate them. One hundred and sixty-two first-year college students participated in the study, in November 2023. AI was specifically selected as a motivational instrument. Findings show students expressed optimism regarding the integration of AI into education, high-achieving students displayed confidence when interacting with AI, while those with lower proficiency faced difficulties due to NLP obstacles.

Challenges Afflicting Indian Courts

The Indian legal system faces numerous challenges that impact nearly every court across the nation. Key issues include a heavy caseload coupled with inadequate court facilities, personnel, and equipment. The wealth disparity exacerbates inequalities, placing the poor in a position where they struggle more intensely to access justice. Additionally, slow judicial proceedings, a shortage of judges, and a failure to adopt technology are contributing factors to ongoing delays. Allegations of corruption within the judiciary, lawyers' strikes, a lack of specialist expertise among judges, ineffective legal aid systems, linguistic barriers among individuals, irregularities in case listings, opaque processes for the appointment and transfer of judges, and the executive's tendency to disregard the Supreme Court collegium's recommendations for judiciary appointments and promotions based on selective intelligence reports are significant challenges. Furthermore, some judges exhibit political biases that may seek future favors, and the temporary nature of public prosecutor positions alongside biased selection processes complicates matters. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive reforms, increased funding for the sector, and a firm commitment to proper legal practices.

Engaging critical cultural awareness through video mediation during online intercultural encounters

ABSTRACT Online international collaboration projects provide students with valuable opportunities to apply their critical cultural awareness (CCA), which involves evaluating the values of one’s culture and other cultures using a systematic approach. In such projects, mediation tasks can play a crucial role by facilitating participants’ access to the meaning of a text that would otherwise be inaccessible due to linguistic, semantic, or cultural barriers. However, the potential of using videos for mediation in online collaboration projects to engage CCA remains underexplored. This exploratory study addresses this gap by investigating the mediation efforts of Colombian and German university students who utilised English as a lingua franca during online intercultural encounters. The results showed that using videos for mediation stimulated critical evaluation and reflection on students’ and their partners’ cultures. Interacting and mediating in a virtual environment encouraged students to explain stereotypes and share their thoughts on different cultural aspects, including social injustice issues, thereby fostering a deeper engagement with culture-related concepts. Findings demonstrated that the choice of videos influenced the depth of evaluation and analysis. Consequently, employing certain types of videos as a foundation for mediation activities proved a powerful tool for engaging students in CCA during international encounters.

Social Isolation: Overcoming Linguistic Obstacles and Mitigating Social Isolation in Diverse Communities

This study investigated the influence of language obstacles on social isolation in varied communities, with a specific focus on the Ogbomoso community in Oyo State, Nigeria. It analyzed the impact of language barriers on communication effectiveness, resulting in misunderstandings, conflicts, and limited access to crucial services such as healthcare, education, and employment. These obstacles also contribute to social and economic inequalities, impeding social advancement and intensifying emotions of seclusion, unease, and apprehension. The study used a qualitative research approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, to investigate the experiences of residents and their solutions for surmounting language barriers. The findings emphasized the importance of culturally responsive teaching, community-based learning initiatives, and the utilization of technology in supporting language acquisition and integration. The study presents exemplary programs, such as Canada’s LINC and Australia’s AMEP, as examples of effectively addressing these difficulties. The study underscored the importance of continuous policy assistance, fair access to educational resources, and active community involvement in order to establish more inclusive and unified societies. This study aims to promote social inclusion and reduce isolation by encouraging the use of multiple languages and implementing effective language learning methods. Its goal is to empower people from all backgrounds to succeed in academic, economic, and social aspects of life. Keywords: Social Isolation, Social Integration, Linguistic Barriers, Diverse Communities, Language Acquisition

Interventions to enhance mental health and wellbeing among international college students: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol.

International students contribute significantly to both the economy and the intellectual and cultural landscape of host countries. Their interactions with domestic students foster personal, socioeconomic, and political development, promopting a broader understanding of diverse cultures and values. This highlights how crucial international education is for staying competitive globally. However, international students often face challenges such as poor mental health, linguistic and cultural barriers, acculturative stress, and limited health literacy. Therefore, supporting their academic success and well-being on college campuses is essential. This protocol aims to describe strategies used to evaluate the effect of interventions on international students' mental health and wellbeing and propose directions for future research based on the evidence. We will conduct an extensive search in several databases including CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science, PsyInFO, ERIC, and Google Scholar with no date limits. Two reviewers will independently screen the literature and extract data. We will then conduct meta-analyses of the extracted data. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first systematic review with meta-analysis focusing on interventions to enhance mental health and wellbeing among international college students. This study will provide most updated empirical evidence on the effects of interventions aimed to improve international students' mental health and wellbeing. The findings from this study will summarize the importance of a range of interventions being available to international students who experience psychological distress and the effectiveness of each intervention. This study will also highlight the gap for researchers to focus on for future studies. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42024528767.

Inclusive Crisis Communication in a Pandemic Context: A Rapid Review.

Background: Crisis communication might not reach non-native speakers or persons with low literacy levels, a low socio-economic status, and/or an auditory or visual impairments as easily as it would reach other citizens. The aim of this rapid review was to synthesize the evidence on strategies used to improve inclusive pandemic-related crisis communication in terms of form, channel, and outreach. Methods: After a comprehensive search and a rigorous screening and quality assessment exercise, twelve comparative studies were selected for inclusion in this review. Data were analyzed and represented by means of a structured reporting of available effects using narrative tables. Results: The findings indicate that a higher message frequency (on any channel) may lead to a lower recall rate, audio-visual productions and tailored messages prove to be valuable under certain conditions, and primary healthcare practitioners appear to be the most trusted source of information for most groups of citizens. Trust levels were higher for citizens who were notified in advance of potential exceptions to the rule in the effect of preventive and curative measures promoted. Conclusions: This review contributes to combatting information inequality by providing evidence on how to remove the sensorial, linguistic, cultural, and textual barriers experienced by minorities and other underserved target audiences in COVID-19-related governmental crisis communication in response to the societal, health-related costs of ineffective communication outreach.