Understanding Of Culture Research Articles

The Problem of the Sexy Cyborg: The Ethics of Cyborg Imagery

In this article, I discuss two popular tropes about the cyborg in speculative fiction visual media: apotheosis — the pinnacle of human form and function; and grotesquerie — the violation of that perfection through fascinating horror. I look at these tropes in service of discussing the effects of such images and cultural understandings on actual cyborgs. The everyday or common cyborgs that are disabled people; the ones with prosthetics, who use wheelchairs, hearing aids, beta blockers, and Ritalin, who have artificial valves, knees, and pacemakers. I argue that the imagery of perfection and horror that surround cyborgs in media reinforce problematic tropes about disabled people, specifically the tropes of the super crip, pity, and bitter cripple narratives, and the ugly is evil trope where physical disfigurements and disabilities are often shorthand for moral failing. I connect these tropes to longstanding beliefs that were foundational to the eugenics movement of the 19th and 20th centuries, and that still cause resistance to robust social services for disabled people.

Cultural geography meets architectural typology: a mixed-methods study of traditional Bayu dwellings in Southwestern China

ABSTRACT Traditional Bayu dwellings in China’s mountainous regions embody a rich yet underexplored architectural heritage, characterized by unique cultural and regional attributes. This study addresses the gap by investigating the architectural typologies, spatial distribution, and cultural influences of these dwellings. Employing a mixed-methods approach within the framework of cultural geography, the research integrates qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Data collection was conducted in three phases: (1) field surveys and documentation of 67 heritage-listed dwellings and 164 traditional villages; (2) collection of geographic data using GIS tools, including Digital Elevation Model (DEM) analysis; and (3) comprehensive literature review of historical and cultural records. Data analysis utilized statistical methods, including second-order cluster analysis, and spatial analysis with ArcGIS. The findings identify four primary dwelling types and delineate four architectural cultural zones shaped by geographical segregation, economic exchanges, and ethnic interactions. This study contributes to a broader understanding of the architectural culture and regional characteristics of the Bayu region, offering valuable insights for cultural heritage preservation and informing sustainable development strategies.

Research on Teaching Strategies for Project-Based Learning in Upper Elementary School Mathematics Culture

This study focuses on teaching strategies for project-based learning (PBL) in upper elementary school mathematics culture, aiming to explore how mathematics culture can be better integrated into upper elementary mathematics teaching through PBL. The research first analyzes the basic concepts of mathematical culture and its current status in elementary education, combining it with the theoretical foundations of PBL to propose effective teaching strategies. These include the design and implementation of projects based on mathematical cultural themes, and promoting students' autonomous exploration and collaborative learning. By designing and implementing culturally relevant mathematical projects, the study observes and analyzes students' learning performance and cultural literacy enhancement. The findings reveal that PBL improves students' understanding and interest in mathematical culture while fostering their independent learning and teamwork skills. This research offers targeted strategies and practical paths, providing valuable references for educators.

Integrating culturally-oriented activities in physical education: Analysis on the incidental learning and appreciation of learners to Philippine culture

The study investigates incidental learning and the appreciation of college students towards culturally-oriented activities in physical education sessions. The exploratory research design uses one-on-one interviews to gather data from 20 physical education students enrolled in the 2023–2024 school year. The positive impact of integrating culturally-oriented activities into physical education sessions is that it emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness and inclusivity in educational settings. The benefits of incorporating culturally-oriented activities into physical education include promoting cultural understanding and enriching students’ educational experiences. The transformative effect of culturally oriented activities in physical education prepares students to become responsible global citizens, emphasizing the importance of cultural enrichment. Incorporating culturally-oriented activities in physical education sessions has significant implications for educational practices, policies, and societal attitudes towards diversity, promoting global citizenship and inclusivity. Integrating culturally-oriented activities in physical education is essential in the current context to nurture cultural awareness, respect, and diversity among students. Investigating the effects of such activities can help educators create more inclusive and culturally responsive learning environments, preparing students for a diverse and interconnected world. Physical education is a way of education through physical activities that are selected and carried on with full regard to values in human growth, development, and behavior. Help learners to better understand both their own identity and the ethos of the school context and environment they share with others. Teachers’ and students’ perspectives on culturally relevant physical education. Aspects of culture and education should be complementary in terms of complementing and reinforcing each other.

Pop Culture Media as Curricular Text: Designing an Interdisciplinary Undergraduate Seminar Using Abbott Elementary

Abbott Elementary, the Emmy-award winning mockumentary-style comedy television show, chronicles the day-to-day efforts of a group of teachers in a Philadelphia public elementary school who, despite the odds stacked against them, are determined to help their students succeed. With humor and heart, the show also uncovers some of the larger policy issues at play in U.S. urban public education, such as teacher shortages, school funding, and school choice. This essay describes the development of an interdisciplinary Honors seminar for undergraduate students at a large, public university in the Midwest U.S. that used episodes of Abbott Elementary as a central curricular text to support students in analyzing current policy issues in urban education. Drawing on Giroux’s concept of media as public pedagogy, this essay details how the course design employed a critical intersectional multiculturalism cultural studies approach to create opportunities for students to engage in a multiperspectival analysis, including (1) an understanding of political culture, (2) textual analysis, and (3) audience reception. Implications and recommendations are made for selecting and integrating popular culture media as curricular text in interdisciplinary coursework.

Training, practice, and career considerations in forensic psychology: results from a field survey of clinical and non-clinical professionals in the United States

The current field survey describes the identities, training, practices, and careers of 351 U.S. forensic psychologists. Findings are presented for clinical forensic psychologists (n = 323) with additional consideration for those working in institutions (n = 119), private practice (n = 107), or both (n = 90), and separately for non-clinical forensic psychologists (n = 35). The sample was predominantly middle-aged, White, and female. Participants reported various training paths to the field, and professional settings and activities in the field. Student loan debt was common and significant in clinical Forensic psychologists. Income was generally high, with trends in higher incomes for private practice, board certification, urban areas, and certain geographic regions. Gendered income disparities were common, particularly among those later in their careers and in private practice, with relative parity only observed among early-career clinical forensic psychologists in institutions. Career satisfaction was generally high, with some important barriers noted. Overall, the limited representation of those with historically marginalized cultural identities restricted further consideration and understanding of these important factors in the field. Additional data and discussion are provided for these and other areas of demographics and lived experiences, training and related financial considerations, professional practices (including settings, activities, and clinical test use), and career considerations (including income, benefits, retirement planning, and satisfaction). Together, these data and related discussions offer important insights for prospective and current trainees entering the field, professionals seeking to navigate and advance their careers, and field leaders aiming to contribute to the ongoing development of forensic psychology.

The Influence of Minangkabau Indigenous Values on Entrepreneurial Orientation and Business Performance in Padang, Indonesia

This study investigates the relationship between Minangkabau indigenous values, entrepreneurial orientation (EO), and business performance among entrepreneurs in Padang, Indonesia. Minangkabau culture, with its matrilineal system and emphasis on community and entrepreneurship, provides a unique context to explore how cultural values influence business practices. A quantitative survey was conducted with 300 entrepreneurs in Padang, measuring their adherence to Minangkabau values, EO dimensions (innovativeness, proactiveness, and risk-taking), and business performance (financial and non-financial). Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). The findings reveal that Minangkabau values significantly influence EO, with a strong positive relationship between these values and the dimensions of innovativeness and proactiveness. Furthermore, EO was found to be a significant predictor of both financial and non-financial business performance. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of cultural values in shaping entrepreneurial behavior and business success. The findings suggest that Minangkabau values foster an entrepreneurial spirit that drives business performance in Padang. This research contributes to the understanding of culture's role in entrepreneurship and provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and researchers in Indonesia and other culturally rich contexts.

Navigating stem cell culture: insights, techniques, challenges, and prospects

Stem cell research holds huge promise for regenerative medicine and disease modeling, making the understanding and optimization of stem cell culture a critical aspect of advancing these therapeutic applications. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth overview of stem cell culture, including general information, contemporary techniques, encountered problems, and future perspectives. The article begins by explaining the fundamental characteristics of various stem cell types, elucidating the importance of proper culture conditions in maintaining pluripotency or lineage commitment. A detailed exploration of established culture techniques sheds light on the evolving landscape of stem cell culture methodologies. Common challenges such as genetic stability, heterogeneity, and differentiation efficiency are thoroughly discussed, with insights into cutting-edge strategies and technologies aimed at addressing these hurdles. Moreover, the article delves into the impact of substrate materials, culture media components, and biophysical cues on stem cell behavior, emphasizing the intricate interplay between the microenvironment and cell fate decisions. As stem cell research advances, ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks become increasingly important, prompting a critical examination of these aspects in the context of culture practices. Lastly, the article explores emerging perspectives, including the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in optimizing culture conditions, and the potential applications of stem cell-derived products in personalized medicine. This comprehensive overview aims to serve as a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians, fostering a deeper understanding of stem cell culture and its key role in advancing regenerative medicine and biomedical research.

The Myth of Agreement

ABSTRACTContemporary ontological constructivism often rests on the belief that social reality emerges from tacit agreements, underpinning mutual expectations and trust. In social theory, the concept of agreement has evolved from explicit social contracts to normative consensus and the idea of tacit knowledge that subtly binds social actors. This article challenges this prevailing approach by dissecting various constructivist positions and exposing the implications of agreement‐based ontological constructivism on our understanding of culture, norms, and society. The author revisits an alternative perspective, claiming that human society is equally a structure of disagreement. Emphasizing disagreement advocates for a realistic social theory and highlights the vital role of fiction in shaping social life.

Historical Development and Learning of Marimba in Chinese Educational Institutions

Background and Aim: The significance of the historical development and learning of the marimba in Chinese educational institutions lies in the evolutionary and developmental process of these institutions and the interesting nature of the learning process. It is necessary to study the introduction and learning process of the marimba. The aim is to explore the historical development and learning of the marimba in Chinese educational institutions. Materials and Methods: Qualitative research and content analysis were used, based on the principles of the historical development of the marimba, to convey and promote Chinese culture through marimba sound, playing techniques, and the learning process in educational institutions. Results: The marimba was introduced to China in the 1980s. Teaching and playing methods mainly follow the international mainstream. Due to its low popularity, few schools offer marimba courses. Automatic lifting systems have emerged. There is scope for further development. The learning is comprehensive, in-depth, and innovative, helping students gain proficiency and cultivate musical literacy and innovative abilities. It originated in Guatemala and spread worldwide, entering China in the 1980s. In China, it has gradually become an important part of the music education system. Courses and training programs have been established in various educational institutions. Learning requires basic skills and the pursuit of artistic expression and cultural understanding. In the future, the marimba will have broader prospects with the development of music education and the acceleration of the internationalization process. Conclusion: Despite its initial lack of popularity, the marimba—which was brought to China in the 1980s—has grown to be an essential part of the country's music education program. Students develop proficiency and musical literacy through thorough and creative teaching methods, and as internationalization and music education progress, the instrument's future in China appears bright.

Perceptions of youth internalizing symptoms: Cross-cultural comparisons between Taiwanese and U.S. mothers

This study was designed to examine how cultural values affected mothers’ perceptions of internalizing symptoms in youth, comparing Taiwanese and U.S. samples. We hypothesized that mothers’ self-reported East Asian cultural values (e.g., conformity, emotional self-control, face culture) would mediate the relationship between their country of residence and perceptions of youth's depressed mood and anhedonia. Participants were 310 mothers from the United States and 294 mothers from Taiwan. All participants responded to questions regarding their adherence to specific East Asian cultural values. Four brief vignettes about a male adolescent experiencing internalizing symptoms were presented to all participants. After reading each vignette, participants rated their perceptions of the adolescent's symptoms. Results from a series of multilevel structural equation models indicated that Taiwan mothers reported more East Asian cultural values (conformity, emotional self-control, face culture) compared to U.S. mothers, which in turn led to rating youth internalizing problems as less acceptable, more impairing, and more problematic to the family, and feeling less proud and more ashamed of the youth. There was also an inconsistent mediation effect of East Asian cultural values on the relationship between country and rating of anhedonia. The mediation pathway was non-significant for the rating of depressed mood. In conclusion, to improve cultural understanding, researchers and clinicians should consider the driving force of the observed between-group differences to ensure appropriate conceptual frameworks in a cross-cultural context. Cross-cultural differences in ratings of youth symptoms highlight the importance of a culturally sensitive approach to assessing symptoms and functional impairment in different cultural groups.

Learning Experiences of Filipino Students in an International Exchange Program in Thailand

Having the opportunity to participate in an international exchange program is not an easy path for every student. After spending a month in an international exchange program at Phranakhon Rajabhat University, Bangkok, seven Filipino students from Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology shared their reflections for this research study, which aimed to examine their learning experiences during the program. The research methodology included questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed that their experiences in terms of academic growth, cultural understanding, and personal development were overwhelmingly positive, despite some initial adjustments. They expressed a willingness to return to the country with their loved ones, highlighting that the organizers effectively addressed their needs and met their expectations. Their detailed insights in this report may provide useful ideas for those organizing similar programs.

The Concept of “World” in Ancient Turkic World View

Abstract The relevance of this work is that modern society shows interest in and explores the issue of traditional values, which are the result of social transformations. The development of a national, traditional worldview in the study and cognition of the surrounding world is still being investigated today. The purpose of the study is to conduct a general analysis of the establishment and origin of the worldview of the ancient Turkic peoples and to show the essential aspects of the classical worldview of modern Turkic peoples. The following methods were used in this study: historical, dialectical, comparative, historical, and descriptive methods, analysis and synthesis, as well as deductive and inductive methods. The result of the study was the coverage of not only the question of the worldview of the ancient Turks but also the relevance of this topic in the modern world and the role of a person in society. The study reveals the attitude of the Turks toward society, beliefs, worldview, and understanding of the “World” by nomadic Turkic peoples and describes the main function of the world. The practical significance of this topic lies in the motivation of a person to learn about their origin, culture, and traditions. The study of the world, life, and death of the Turkic peoples will provide a deeper understanding of the traditional culture and worldview of the ancient Turks. The paper covers the topic of the origin of culture and civilization among the Turks. The heroic epic “Oguz Kagan” is considered, and the manifestation of divine faith in the work is analyzed. The idea of the “World” in the epic was clarified by the beliefs of the ancient Turks.

A tale of two languages: charting Chinese parents’ beliefs about and engagement with Chinese and English language learning

ABSTRACT This study investigates Chinese parental beliefs about and engagement with their children’s Chinese and English language learning in Yinchuan, China, utilizing the theory of planned behaviour as an analytical framework and a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data from 879 parents reveals a strong preference for Chinese language education based on its perceived utility, cultural identity, and socioeconomic returns, contrasting with an ambivalent stance towards English. Qualitative insights highlight the influences of nationalism, anti-Western sentiments, and the COVID-19 pandemic on parental attitudes. These findings underscore the dominance of top-down language policies and societal expectations in shaping parental choices, often leading to contradictions between expressed attitudes and realized engagement. Perceived behavioural control emerges as a critical factor, with parents navigating challenges such as resource limitations, policy instability, and the dynamics of child autonomy. This study offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of parental involvement and the factors shaping language learning priorities, thus contributing to the growing body of literature on language education in China. These findings can inform language education policies and practices, emphasizing the need for accessible home-based resources, cultural understanding, and open dialogue to support effective and equitable language learning outcomes for Chinese children.

Law, Culture and Language: Challenges in Legal Term Translation from the Perspective of Comparative Legal Culture

As a cross-cultural communication activity, legal translation inevitably involves law, culture and language. The accurate translation of legal terms plays a crucial role in facilitating the exchange between different legal cultures. Cultural factors, including language, legal systems, legal institutional structures and legal mindsets, have a major impact on legal translation. Failure to capture the discrepancies between different legal cultures causes errors in the translation of legal terms. To achieve optimal translation effects, translators not only need to possess a high level of language proficiency but also have a deep understanding of different legal systems and cultures. From the perspective of comparative legal culture, this paper analyzes how cultural factors influence the translation of legal terminology between Chinese and English and proposes corresponding translation strategies. When there are equivalent concepts in both the source and target legal systems, translators should employ corresponding legal equivalents in the translation. In cases where such equivalents are absent, translators may employ paraphrasing techniques or coin new terms to convey the intended meaning.

California’s 2023 Chinese-Western Cuisine: Impact on Community Health and Cultural Identity

This study explores the impact of California’s Chinese-Western fusion cuisine on community health and cultural identity in 2023. The paper examines how this emerging culinary trend, deeply rooted in cross-cultural influences, has gained significant popularity and reshaped the state’s food culture. By analyzing recent data, this research investigates the dual roles of fusion cuisine in promoting healthier eating habits and strengthening cultural connections among diverse populations. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of health indicators with qualitative assessments of cultural identity. Findings reveal key trends in dietary practices and cultural acceptance, offering insights for future policy recommendations and identifying opportunities for promoting public health and cultural inclusivity. The implications of this research highlight the potential of Chinese-Western fusion cuisine to contribute positively to societal well-being and cultural understanding in a rapidly globalizing world.

Cultivating the Concept of the Chinese Ethnic Group Community from the Perspective of Cultural Identity

In the context of cultural diversity, cultivating a sense of shared identity among the Chinese ethnic group is not only crucial for national unity and ethnic solidarity but also promotes social harmony and development. Within the concept of the national community, cultural identity serves as a core element, playing an irreplaceable role in enhancing ethnic cohesion and centripetal force. Currently, China is in a crucial period of realizing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese ethnic group, facing various complex situations and challenges. To cultivate the concept of the Chinese ethnic group community and enhance the cultural identity and sense of belonging of all ethnic groups, efforts can be made to strengthen historical education, deepen understanding of Chinese ethnic group history and culture, and thereby enhance cultural identity among different ethnic groups. To promote cultural exchange and integration, cultural exchange platforms can be established to foster mutual respect and understanding of different ethnic cultures, promote the core socialist values, and advance the inheritance and innovation of Chinese excellent traditional culture, providing strong support for cultivating the concept of the Chinese ethnic group community.

Research on the current situation of diversified development in education

As a multicultural country, China's education industry is at a critical stage of development. It not only contributes to the diversity of society, but also improves the overall quality of the entire population, thereby improving the basic scientific literacy of all people and improving their physical and mental health. However, due to various reasons, especially history, social environment and current economic conditions, there are still many challenges in the current education, especially the lack of resources related to mathematics education. With the change of times, improve the quality of students; Learning interest and skills in mathematics, as well as strengthening their understanding of mathematical culture and theory, are important issues today; Therefore, integrating these factors into the classroom not only helps to improve their comprehensive quality, but also helps to better realize their dreams. This paper aims to explore the sustainable development of minority mathematics education through practical activities, classroom discussions, examination guidance, social practice activities and other forms, so as to improve students' comprehensive quality and mathematical ability.

From the Lab to Librarianship: Advancing Open Science

Three library professionals share their perspectives on transitioning from STEM research to librarianship. A STEM PhD or postdoctoral researcher can bring technical expertise and a deep understanding of researcher culture to library services and at the same time put their skill sets to use in unexpected and interesting ways. A postdoctoral position focused on an emerging area such as open science can provide the perfect opportunity for libraries to leverage the unique skill sets of doctoral students who are increasingly exploring careers beyond research track faculty.

Pengembangan Aset Wisata Edukasi Kebudayaan Flashcards Berbasis Augmented Reality untuk Pembelajaran Seni dan Budaya TK Laboratorium

The development of cultural educational asset flashcards based on Augmented Reality (AR) for art and culture learning at TK Laboratorium aims to enhance children's interest and understanding of local arts and culture. This program integrates AR technology with educational flashcards to create an interactive and engaging learning experience. Methods include the design and development of AR flashcards, technical training for teachers, and effectiveness evaluation through user feedback. Results show a significant increase in children's engagement and understanding of art and cultural materials. The implementation of this program is expected to support the development of innovative and effective art and culture learning at the early childhood education level.