Native Culture Research Articles

Метисация хакасов как фактор ассимиляции коренного населения Хакасии

Goals. The article attempts an analysis of miscegenation as a reason behind the Khakass population decline and the titular ethnic group’s assimilation. Despite there is an increasing number of publications examining various aspects of miscegenation among indigenous Siberians, such works dealing with the complex social process in Khakassia are scarce enough. The working hypothesis rest on the assertions as follows: the increased number of mestizos has led to significant changes in identities of descendants of interethnic marriages in recent decades; positions of the Khakass language as a means of everyday communication and cultural transmission have been weakened by the globalization and electronic communication development; the two put together may result in that the Khakass would lose their native language and culture on the way toward total assimilation. Materials and methods. The study focuses on official statistics data and outcomes of the author’s survey conducted in 2018, as well as on some bibliographic interviews with ethnic Khakass individuals and mestizos of Khakassia obtained in 2023. The snowball sampling method proved most instrumental in identifying further interviewees. Results. Present-day Khakassia witnesses quite a difficult situation: the increase in miscegenation and decrease of Khakass population trigger accelerated linguistic and cultural assimilation trends. The former have resulted from somewhat changed ethnic composition across the region, urbanization, and globalization. However, in the face of the mentioned circumstances, ethnic consciousness of the Khakass remains stable enough, the latter being manifested in the recognition of the Khakass language as mother tongue, in their understanding of the need to protect and develop traditional Khakass culture. But despite the efforts aimed at preserving Khakass, there is a real threat of its extinction. As compared to descendants of monoethnic marriages, mestizos tend to choose assimilation behavior strategies, which also entails dramatic risks for ethnic survival.

Interculturality, native-speakerism and authenticity: paradoxes in Indonesia’s EFL pedagogy

ABSTRACT Intercultural language pedagogy goes beyond native speaker and target culture norms. Using an intercultural lens, this study examines the extent to which native-speakerism and authenticity inform the pedagogic belief and practice of Indonesian high-school teachers of English as a foreign language (EFL) and in particular how first language use shapes the teacher’s instruction and classroom discourse. Data were obtained from classroom observations, narrative frames, stimulated-recall, and in-depth interviews with five teachers, and a focus group discussion involving seven students. The data were analysed using a qualitative thematic framework. Findings show that the teachers often used home languages and lived cultural realities as a springboard to navigate and mediate between first and target language-and-culture. They displayed agency in dealing with local aspirations and the situatedness of EFL pedagogy and interculturality in the multilingual society. Evidence also revealed that native speaker models of English competence and pedagogic performance and English-speaking West concepts of authenticity tended to create paradoxes in the classroom. This paper forefronts the need to work towards a more culturally-responsive and critically-conscious EFL pedagogy.

Роль русского языка в формировании и продвижении традиционных ценностей России

The article considers the role of the Russian language in the formation and promotion of traditional Russian spiritual and moral values of the nation. The object of the study is the linguocultural potential of the Russian language. The subject of the study is the building of value links between language and the elements that form the model of worldview pentabasis: ‘man’, ‘family’, ‘society’, ‘state’, ‘country’. The study reveals that for a person, language acts as an instructor, giving instructions on how to choose the verbal code of communication that will be most appropriate in specifi c circumstances of communication. For the family, the native language is a guide to culture, providing a link between generations through family traditions, folklore and stories of world literature. For society, the Russian language acts as an indicator of its state, because it quickly reacts to changes and easily adapts to the new reality. For the state, the Russian language is an instrument of ‘soft’ power, contributing to strengthening the unity of the multinational Russian people and enhancing Russia’s cultural presence in the world. For the country, the native language is an effective means of civic and patriotic education for young people. The analysis of sources on the topic of the study allows us to conclude that in the context of modern globalization processes, the Russian language and the languages of the peoples of the Russian Federation are subject to negative infl uence. Among the negative factors affecting the development of Russian languages are the following: the targeted penetration of English into all spheres of activity, a decline in the general level of language profi ciency, and following the global language trends. To neutralize the infl uence of negative factors on the language, an effective language policy is being developed. It is aimed at supporting the growth of interest in the native language and culture, as well as at preserving, protecting and revitalizing the languages of smallnumbered peoples of Russia. For example, the Russian-language platforms for online learning are spreading, a new trend – linguistic (language) ecology – is developing, and scientifi c centers for the preservation and revival of Russian languages are now operating.

Миссия преподавателя иностранного языка в изменяющемся мире

The article deals with the problems of foreign language teaching in the conditions of limited educational mobility of students, in which it is necessary to revise the strategy of teaching foreign languages and its goals. The tasks of developing the skills of oral and written communication in the target language, expanding the horizons of students by getting to know a new culture and developing general erudition, as well as the formation of critical thinking, a deep and comprehensive study of the native culture for a worthy translation of its values into the world become the priority. The article analyzes the results of a survey of students about their ideas about what an ideal teacher should be. A modern teacher cannot be limited to tasks of an exclusively didactic nature, but must follow the development of the neurosciences that study the activity of the brain in order to effectively use methods and techniques that stimulate cognitive processes in the process of learning foreign languages. It is also necessary to take into account changes affecting the motivational attitudes of the audience and its ability to perceive information. The main change was the significantly increased need of students for the psychological support of the teacher, in a more friendly, open and emotionally balanced environment; the survey showed a desire to see a teacher who is not only passionate about his work, but also able to interest students who are not always motivated and are largely stressed. In a constantly changing world, the treasures of native culture remain unchanged and stable values that can expand the horizons of knowledge and provide strong guidelines for professional activity, the transmission of which to the world gives a special meaning to the study of foreign languages and brings the mission of a teacher to a qualitatively different level.

Death as a thread of Cultural and Religious Identity

This article approaches death from an anthropological perspective, exploring its historical evolution and its influence on diverse cultures and societies. It begins by examining how anthropology has contributed to our understanding of death, from its roots in the supernatural to contemporary approaches. Three pivotal periods in anthropological death research are identified: the twentieth-century evolutionary, the heyday of symbolic anthropology, and the current interdisciplinary era. The analysis focuses on the impact of European colonization in the New World and how anthropology emerged as a tool for documenting and understanding cultural and religious changes among indigenous populations who encountered the colonizers. In addition, it explores funerary beliefs and practices in diverse cultures, from the Incas in Argentina to contemporary native cultures in the same country. It highlights rituals and conceptions of death in different religions, including Catholicism, Buddhism, Islam and others. The article underscores the importance of appreciating the cultural diversity surrounding death in a globalized world. Despite superficial differences, death remains a universal theme that raises fundamental questions about life and transcendence. Understanding how different cultures confront and give meaning to death is essential to promote cross-cultural empathy and respect in today's society.

Development of Students' Linguistic and Cultural Outlook on the Example of the Concept of "Intensity" in German and Russian

The article is devoted to the analysis of the development of the linguistic and cultural outlook of students of non-linguistic specialties in the process of teaching language and culture, since for the formation of a linguistic personality it is very important to possess not only communicative competence, but also to be able to use intercultural knowledge for self-improvement. In the system of teaching foreign languages, one of the main goals of training is the formation of a personality capable of conducting successful intercultural communication, establishing intercultural contacts, and a decent representation of native culture. achieving these goals is possible with the help of many factors. Not only the knowledge of the language at a high level, but also the possession of cultural experience, knowledge, skills and skills of intercultural communication determines the qualified specialist in demand. Therefore, the inclusion of phraseological units from different languages in the educational process allows expanding the horizons of students, forming their linguistic and cultural culture.

Serving Remote Native Alaskans: A Geospatial Analysis of the History of Remote Alaskan Libraries and Opportunities to Connect with Alaskan Native Culture Through Public Libraries

ABSTRACT Geographic information systems (GIS) allow spatial analyses of both historic and current library locations in rural and remote communities, offering insight into underserved communities. The purpose of this study is to conduct geospatial analysis of historic and known current library locations in remote interior Alaska and to identify ways in which remote, primarily Native Alaskan communities can be better served by libraries in those isolated communities. The study emphasizes the history and impact of The Village Library Project, an effort to bring public library services to remote communities in the early 1980s. Utilizing publicly available American Community Surveys Census data, this study also discusses current public library locations, finding that over 50 percent of Native Alaskan residents of remote Alaska are without library access.

Two-Ways thinking and Two-Eyed Seeing as ways of implementing Indigenous perspectives in the science education curriculum

A groundswell to include Indigenous Knowledge in the school science curriculum has led to the inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures (generally known as Indigenous perspectives) in the overall Australian Curriculum (AC) and the Australian Curriculum: Science (ACS). However, the experiences in other countries, their states and provinces are quite different and diverse, particularly when it comes to incorporating Indigenous Knowledge in resistant disciplines such as science. The AC and ACS are examined and compared with similar curriculum from elsewhere. The causes of resistance to the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives are identified, as well as other structural impediments. Strategies such as the Two-Ways or Two-Eyed Seeing approaches with epistemic insight are seen as a functional way of bridging Indigenous and Western cultures for policy makers, curriculum developers, educators and teachers, and ultimately students.

Acceptability and feasibility of an intervention for Alaska Native and American Indian couples.

This acceptability and feasibility study assessed a previously tested movie discussion intervention culturally adapted for a tribal health setting. Despite family and relationships being important in Alaska Native and American Indian (ANAI) cultures, social health interventions supporting committed ANAI couples have not been investigated. Couples watching and discussing movies can promote and sustain relationship health as effectively as intensive skill-building classes. This study culturally adapted a movie discussion intervention. Multiple stakeholders guided adaptations, including changes to intervention duration, recommended movies, discussion guide, and study measures. Eligible participants were cohabitating adults in a committed relationship, with at least one person in the couple being ANAI. Participants watched and discussed movies over 4 weeks at home or in person. Study measures assessed demographics, relationship characteristics, and intervention acceptability and feasibility. Twenty-three couples participated: 87% chose at-home participation, 70% completed the intervention. Almost 90% of couples felt comfortable discussing the movies, felt the discussion guide improved communication, and would recommend the intervention to other couples, but 26% were mildly stressed by the discussions. This intervention was a feasible and acceptable way to help ANAI couples maintain positive relationship features. This intervention could support ANAI couples in regions with limited access to behavioral health services.

Wystawy polskich awangardzistów w Danii, Finlandii i Norwegii w latach 1967, 1985 i 1986 jako element polityki kulturalnej PRL

During the Cold War, the authorities of the Polish People’s Republic tried to use the native culture to maintain relations with Western European countries, trying to establish a warmer image of Poland in the international arena. An important role in this activity was played by Polish avant-garde painting, presenting a high artistic level and recognition abroad, including in the Nordic area. The aim of the article is to explain the influence of the Polish People’s Republic’s foreign policy on the exhibitions of Polish abstract painting in Denmark, Norway, and Finland in 1967, 1985, and 1986. The research postulate was implemented through the analysis of previously unused file sources from the State Archives in Łódź, as well as articles from the press of Nordic items stored in the Museum of Art in Łódź. Confronting these materials with the literature on the subject made it possible to examine the specificity of the presented exhibitions against the background of the international situation.

Strange, and Stranger Ways With Strangers

It is difficult to find the necessary discursive focus on English inmultilingual India. Its aspirational youth still need this language of colonialprovenance to keep its otherness from the native cultures of India theynonetheless esteem. This article acknowledges the radical ambivalenceEnglish thus creates, beside an analysis of the others English engenders inIndia’s globalizing progress. It critiques what academics often practise asa version and variant of Cultural Studies, and how they end by practicingStranger Studies. The concluding part of this article probes the reservationsmost Indians seem to have about their visitors and guests, and how Englishinflects their transactions with the ‘other’ world. A Harold Pinter tableaufrom Mountain Language is read as an object lesson for students who investin English, unmindful of its undiminished potential still as an imperialistlanguage. When Language fails the Human, it is time we rethink thehumanities. The article ends with a reformist hope that no Indian or otherstate capital will ever be a stage for such an overbearing English scenariothe way it appears so blatantly in Pinter’s play.

Borrowed vocabulary as a fragment of the Russian language picture of the world: linguoculturological description

The relevance of the study is determined by the need for further study of the modern Russian language picture of the world, including by considering borrowed lexical units that explicate the conceptual meanings in the minds of Russian speakers precepting their own national culture. Of particular scientific interest are the results of the associative experiment, which demonstrate the specifics of Russian-speaking informants’ interpretation of subject-conceptual, connotative, primarily axiological, components of the borrowed units meaning, in our case, Sinicisms. The purpose of the study is to identify and describe the universal and nationally determined components in the semantics of the associates obtained during the experiment, which mark a fragment of the Russian picture of the world associated with understanding Chinese culture. The materials included the works of scientists on the problem of lexical borrowings, data from lexicographic sources, as well as the results of a survey and an associative experiment in a group of Russian-speaking students studying at Tomsk State Pedagogical University. A comprehensive research methodology was used, including methods of theoretical, introspective and experimental analysis. The results of the experiment made it possible to draw a conclusion about the role, place and content of fragments of the worldview of Russian-speaking informants related to the idea of the history, culture and language of China and based on the reception of different thematic borrowed lexical units. The authors proved that, despite the influence of the native linguistic culture on interpreting Sinicisms by Russian language native speakers, they understand the core subject-conceptual components of the meaning of all stimulus words. This fact testifies to the presence of a general idea on the original Chinese culture, imprinted in the national language and in the minds of the informants. We revealed that the degree of success and completeness of interpreting the borrowings depends on a certain thematic category of the unit: the most diverse and numerous reactions were received to words denoting philosophical concepts, the socio-political vocabulary has the least limited range of reactions. In general, the results of the experiment demonstrated the positive value meanings conveying respect and interest to Chinese language and culture in the minds of the representatives of modern Russian linguistic culture. The prospects of the research involve further study of Russian linguistic culture involving borrowed words from different source languages, as well as expanding the audience of recipients depending on their status indicators.

Lesson observation: the challenge of seeing beyond observable behaviours

The article focuses on the problems which trainee teachers face in reflecting on observed lessons taught by experienced teachers. Observing and discussing live and recorded lessons is part of a practical module in a Bulgarian state university run together with a course in ELT methodology, with the aim of helping trainee-teachers link theory to practice in preparation for their school-based internship. The discussion is based on the results of 74 BA and MA trainee-teachers’ written assignments of a whole video lesson observation (with the task of identifying its stages, procedures, and the rationale behind them), and a follow-up collective feedback aimed at revealing the sources of identified problems. A checklist including targeted observation foci was used for collecting quantitative data related to the elements of the lesson which were identified and correctly interpreted by the participants. Data analysis revealed no significant differences between the results of BA and MA trainees, who experienced similar difficulties in recognizing teaching techniques and interpreting teacher’s actions in terms of ELT theory, perceiving the lesson as a coherent entity, and understanding the logic of its organisation. The post observation feedback provided some insights into the problems, suggesting that they might stem from insufficient theoretical preparation and the lasting impact of trainees’ native educational culture with its traditional models of teaching; factors which might lead to conscious rejection of practices perceived as strange or inappropriate for the local teaching context. The implications of the study are linked to possible measures for overcoming the challenges and enhancing trainees’ development of professional expertise.

Typicality effects in Spanish as a Foreign Language of intermediate and advanced level Greek learners

Abstract Categorization and identification of typical exemplars within semantic categories is a universal skill of human cognition which is involved in language development. However, cultural, and experiential aspects might influence typicality effects. This paper examines the role of native language and culture on that categorization process and on typicality effects. Towards that objective, we had Spanish native speakers and Spanish FL learners whose mother tongue is Greek complete a category generation word association task. Data were analyzed within a network and graph theory framework as the best fitting for this type of data, bearing in mind previous descriptions of semantic memory. Results showed how, indeed, native speakers and learners of varying proficiency levels differ in their availability and production of typical exemplars, especially in slot-filler categories versus taxonomic categories. Lexical access during category generation might be determined by native language and culture. Additionally, natives’ mental lexicon seems to feature denser connections responsible for more efficient access.

Evaluation of Yantiin Kalabara – 5 Ways to a Healthier You: A primary school-based education program targeting healthy living choices through interactive workshops

The aim of this study was to develop, implement and evaluate the novel one-day, school-based health education program Yantiin Kalabara that embedded Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and perspectives within a series of interactive learning stations. In consultation with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, the program was designed to encourage healthy lifestyle choices and promote strong, sustainable and mutually respectful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Aboriginal Australians. It involved five primary schools within the Awabakal, Wonnarua, Darkinjung and Worimi Countries (Australia) in movement-based and culturally rich learning activities. The feasibility of the program for use in primary schools and preliminary efficacy for affecting change in key health behaviours (physical activity, nutrition, screen-time) was assessed using student questionnaires. Yantiin Kalabara was delivered by the Hunter Primary Care team and volunteers. Students reported that it helped them improve their overall health, physical activity, eating habits and screen-time patterns. We have demonstrated that the program can be feasibly delivered in primary schools, and that the program was efficacious in affecting positive changes in key health behaviours of participating children. However, further evaluation in larger and more diverse populations using a randomised controlled trial is warranted.

Abstract A093: Implementation of a financial hardship screening among Native American patients with cancer

Abstract Introduction: Financial hardship and financial hardship screening are emerging concerns in oncology. Native American patients may be at increased risk of financial hardship due to factors including poverty, medical comorbidities, and lack of private health insurance coverage. Financial hardship for Native American patients with cancer has only rarely been studied, and implementation of screening for financial hardship for these patients has never been reported. Methods: Guided by input from a stakeholder advisory board consisting of patient, provider, and staff members at a single cancer center in Oklahoma, we implemented a financial hardship screening tool, the COmprehensive Score for financial Toxicity (COST) – Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT) among 42 Native American patients with cancer. We conducted key informant interviews with ten of these patients and four clinical staff involved in the implementation process. Patient interviews included questions about current financial hardship, experiences in discussing financial hardship with the cancer care and primary care team, and acceptability of the COST-FACIT tool. Clinician interviews focused on their experience with the project, including implementation of the COST-FACIT tool, barriers to implementation, and sustainability. Recorded interviews were transcribed and thematically analyzed using MAXQDA® software. COST-FACIT tool data were analyzed using SAS v. 9.4 Results: Three-quarters (76%, n=32) of participants who completed the COST-FACIT tool reported moderate or severe financial hardship (Score <25 out of max 44, with lower scores indicating more hardship). A higher percentage of patients experiencing financial hardship were younger, covered by Medicaid, unemployed, not married/cohabiting, had lower income, and lower education compared to those with no/mild hardship (Scores ≥25). Among patients and clinicians, we identified themes of 1) financial hardship screening perception and intervention experiences, 2) screening efficacy and opportunities for improvement, and 3) systematic and patient related themes of Native American health systems and culture. Conclusions: Financial hardship was reported by the majority of Native American patients with cancer included in our study. Patients expressed a positive experience with the screening tool, including identification of financial challenges though timing of the tool in regards to their cancer diagnosis varied across patients. Clinicians experienced challenges in implementation of the COST-FACIT tool related to logistics, the COVID-19 pandemic, and concerns for sustainability. However, clinicians reported a positive experience with the tool and interactions with patients and referrals that resulted from the screening. Citation Format: Amanda E. Janitz, Amber S. Anderson-Buettner, Stefani D. Madison, Mark P. Doescher, Dorothy A. Rhoades. Implementation of a financial hardship screening among Native American patients with cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A093.

“I Had No Childhood”: A Trauma History of Deported Ukrainians from Western Boykivshchyna

Abstract The article is devoted to the trauma history of Ukrainians from Western Boykivshchyna, part of the Boykivshchyna ethnographical region situated in modern Ukraine. Operation Vistula (1947–1950) was the forced resettlement of more than 150,000 Ukrainians and mixed Polish-Ukrainian families from the territory of Rzeszów, Lublin and Kraków provinces (Voivodeships) to the western and northern territories of Poland, leading to radical changes within this regional group. The article deals with the difficult experience of the resettlers not only in the context of psychological, but also cultural, trauma. According to the theory of Polish sociologist Piotr Sztompka, three main phases of cultural trauma induced by resettlement have been highlighted and are outlined as strategies to cope with trauma: contemporary resettlers’ preservation of native culture, religion and family tradition, and sharing memories of the past.

Imaging flow cytometry of tumoroids: A new method for studying GPCR expression.

Fluorescence confocal microscopy is commonly used to analyze the regulation membrane proteins expression such as G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). With this approach, the internal movement of GPCRs within the cell can be observed with a high degree of resolution. However, these microscopy techniques led to complex and time-consuming analysis and did not allow a large population of events to be sampled. A recent approach termed imaging flow cytometry (IFC), which combines flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy, had two main advantages to study the regulation of GPCRs expression such as orexins receptors (OXRs): the ability (1) to analyze large numbers of cells and; (2) to visualize cell integrity and fluorescent markers localization. Here, we compare these two technologies using the orexin A (OxA) ligand coupled to rhodamine (OxA-rho) to investigate anti-tumoral OX1R expression in human digestive cancers. IFC has been adapted for cancer epithelial adherent cells and also to 3D cell culture tumoroids which partially mimic tumoral structures. In the absence of specific antibody, expression of OX1R is examined in the presence of OxA-rho. 2D-culture of colon cancer cells HT-29 exhibits a maximum level of OX1R internalization induced by OxA with 19% ± 3% colocalizing to early endosomes. In 3D-culture of HT-29 cells, internalization of OX1R/OxA-rho reached its maximum at 60 min, with 30.7% ± 6.4% of OX1R colocalizing with early endosomes. This is the first application of IFC to the analysis of the expression of a native GPCR, OX1R, in both 2D and 3D cultures of adherent cancer cells.

Cultural Appropriation in Historical Context: Native Americans in Firearms Advertising

The long standing appropriation of Native American culture for promotional purposes has received ample criticism from tribal members, Indigenous advocates, professional organizations, and scholars. Mounting disapproval has pressured private companies and public institutions to curtail these practices in the United States. This article expands historical understanding of these contested representation by analyzing the advertising of three major firearms manufacturers – Savage, Remington, and Winchester – and a few other gun sellers who have periodically exploited American Indian images and language from the late nineteenth century until the present day. These depictions, their historical context, and their macromarketing implications are critically examined. Also discussed are intersections with U.S. gun culture, study limitations, and opportunities for further research on Native American appropriation globally.

The Indigenous Digital Divide: COVID-19 and Its Impacts on Educational Delivery to First Nation University Students

The global COVID-19 pandemic highlighted that the delivery of online education inadvertently disadvantaged Indigenous Australian university students. This situation was particularly critical for Indigenous students from rural and remote locations. Australian universities increased the use of digital technologies to engage, support and teach due to students’ inability to access campuses. This presented universities with challenges in supporting Indigenous students living in and returning to non-urban settings. Due to COVID, the need for better strategies and plans for Indigenous students returning to their rural or remote community to continue their studies is often not recognized. These communities often lack suitable infrastructure to access pedagogical and learning support opportunities. This paper explores how the business decision made by Australian universities to increase reliance on teaching online during COVID impacted the education of Indigenous students. This paper will then canvas ways this ongoing dilemma can be addressed by considering risks, measuring and monitoring performance to guide transformation, including universities’ more inclusive and respectful use of digital technologies involving First Nations people and cultures.