Linguistics and Culture Review

Language learning and acquisition perspectives: Exploring Chomsky’s transformational-generative grammar, pinker’s cognitive aspects of language, and labov’s sociolinguistics in the post-pandemic educational context

Edgar R. Eslit — 2024-11-27

Language acquisition and learning are cognitive processes that attracted the interest of scholars from different fields. Transformational-Generative Grammar, Cognitive Aspects of Language, and Sociolinguistics are the frameworks that the research work examines to understand their bearing on acquisition and learning given the trends in the digital and technological development. Thus, by using the qualitative research method, the study addresses the prevailing gaps and looks at the language learning and acquisition perspectives and the use of technology enhanced learning into blended learning. The results present significant responses to the outstanding questions regarding integration of cultural and language features, impact of socioeconomic factors on the equity in education, and use of technological resources. There are suggestions for derivational and adaptive educational approaches aimed at increasing the level of learners’ language proficiency. Overall, this study holds useful information for improving language learning and teaching practices in the post-pandemic educational context.

Digital benevolence: What drives TikTok users to donate to online beggars?

Reza Kurniawan — 2025-01-07

This study explores the motivations behind TikTok users’ decisions to donate to online beggars, a phenomenon that has emerged as a form of digital charity on the platform. With TikTok’s algorithm curating emotionally engaging content, users often encounter live streams where individuals solicit donations through personal narratives. Through in-depth interviews with seven TikTok users who have donated in the past three months, this research examines aspects of donation behavior, such as the role of empathy, social dynamics, impulsive tendencies, and perceptions of authenticity. Gendered patterns also emerge, with some users expressing a preference for supporting female content creators. The study delves into the interplay between emotional engagement, critical reflection, and cultural contexts in shaping these interactions, highlighting the duality of digital philanthropy as a space for both compassionate action and caution against exploitation. The findings also bring attention to questions surrounding transparency, authenticity, and user protection on platforms like TikTok, suggesting areas for further inquiry and discussion. This research contributes to the broader understanding of modern digital giving, focusing on the ethical and societal considerations social media platforms face in fostering meaningful charitable activities.

Teaching freshman English language at Uzbek universities

Mashrabbek Rakhimjonov — 2024-12-09

Uzbekistan's commitment to globalization and modernization has placed a strong emphasis on English language proficiency, making it a vital skill for its citizens to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. Universities across the nation have integrated English language programs into their curricula, targeting freshmen as a crucial demographic for developing foundational English skills. This article examines the unique challenges and opportunities in teaching freshman English language at Uzbek universities. Through a combination of literature review, case studies, teacher interviews, and student surveys, the article analyzes the factors contributing to these challenges, including diverse language backgrounds, cultural barriers, limited resources, and the need to foster motivation and engagement.

Weaving Threads of Sustainable Tourism

Wisnu Febri Wardana Wardana — 2024-11-27

This paper explores the intersection of traditional craft, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation in the context of sustainable tourism, focusing on Sumba Timur, Indonesia. Known for its vibrant woven textiles, "Tenun," this study uncovers the narratives woven into these fabrics and their connections to local lives, traditions, and the emerging tourism sector. Through qualitative analysis of community entrepreneurship and sustainable practices, we assess Tenun's socio-economic impact. By blending traditional artistry with modern entrepreneurial strategies, Tenun exemplifies how cultural heritage can drive sustainable economic development. The research emphasizes the triple bottom line approach, showcasing Tenun’s role in environmental preservation, local livelihood support, and enhanced visitor experiences. We investigate the synergy between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary tourism demands, illustrating how Tenun can rejuvenate rural tourism and model sustainable resource capitalization. Incorporating local wisdom and social enterprises, Tenun stands as a catalyst for inclusive, community-driven tourism experiences. Drawing on case studies and insights from local artisans and stakeholders, this paper aims to enrich the academic discourse on sustainable tourism and entrepreneurship while providing actionable recommendations for policymakers and practitioners. Ultimately, the stories embodied in Tenun reflect the aspirations of Sumba Timur's people, highlighting the potential of diverse entrepreneurship rooted in tradition.

Art in the digital era: Examining western painting’s shift from traditional canvas to digital mediums western painting

Weijun ye — 2024-12-09

The study aims to delve into the digital age’s Western painting techniques and digitalization from canvas to screen. The research used a quantitative method for the data collection process, and the sample of the research was collected using a random sampling technique. The research data were collected from 390 artists who were actively involved in Western painting. The data of the research were determined using a Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The study highlights the improvement of art democratization due to Western painting digitalization compared to the traditional canvas-based method and the artistic techniques are diversified because of the transfer from canvas to digital mediums. Also, the shift from canvas to digital platforms increases the flexibility of creation for artists, and the texture of the painting differs because of the use of digital tools. The perception of people about art authenticity because of the digitalization of Western paintings rather than traditional canvas art. The novelty contribution of the research explores the Western painting techniques transformation in the digital age. By examining the role of Western painting digitalization, the study focuses on the democratization of art, diversification of artistic technique, creative flexibility, difference in textures, perception of art authenticity.

Muhammad Abduh’s Role in al-Waqa’i‘ al-Misriyyah an Official Egyptian Gazette

Ahmad Nabil Amir — 2024-12-19

The article discusses the role of Muhammad Abduh (1849-1905) in his illustrious career as leading editor of al-Waq?’i‘ al-Misr?yya ( ??????? ???????) [Egyptian Events] an official Egyptian gazette. It brings profound impact in the field of journalism in the context of rising popularity of al-Waq?’i‘ al-Misr?yyah during his editorship (1880-1882), that established its reputation as leading Egyptian newspapers highlighting unprecedented socio-cultural and religious reform undertaken by the establishment, in the midst of phenomenal and competitive growth of independent press. His writing was instrumental in developing national consciousness toward modernization program and influencing public opinion in Egypt. It allowed for better development of formidable national spirit and awakening their higher ideal and convention in language, literature and culture as well as mobilizing social awareness of intense political and cultural dynamics.

Effects of AI-Based Feedback on English Grammar Learning at Elementary Level

Jamila Khan — 2024-11-29

Writing is fundamental for communication and learning; however, it becomes a difficult skill due to the poor English grammar. Artificial Intelligence driven tools may help to improve writing by providing instant feedback and corrections. This study evaluates the effectiveness of Automated Writing Corrective Feedback on English writing skills at elementary level in Pakistan, provided by AI-driven tool 'Grammarly'. In this quantitative research, sample (n= 20) was divided into two groups by criterion sampling. The experimental group received Automated Writing Corrective Feedback with teacher feedback while the control group received teacher feedback only. Pre-test and post-test measured grammatical accuracy progress over a six-week period. Data was analysed using SPSS 21.0. The results of paired samples t-tests showed that the mean difference between the pre and post-test scores assigned for the students’ English essay samples were statistically significant (p<0.05). Findings revealed that the experimental group showed significant improvement in grammar skills because of the detailed and timely feedback they received from Grammarly compared to traditional way which determines that AI tools may develop self-directed learning. This research contributes to the understanding of AI's role in educational contexts and highlights its potential to change traditional teaching methods by offering personalised feedback to learners.

Domestic abuse and portrayal of Japanese Women's mistreatment in Junji Ito's 'Whispering Woman'

Keika Ghalia — 2024-11-27

There are many authors, writers, or illustrators who slip a hidden message based on their cultural background in their works. Junji Ito is one of them, and many of his works are Japanese-based, because of his background, Whispering Woman is one of them. However, Junji Ito is adding more depth to his story, since he is a horror mangaka, Junji Ito puts Japan’s dark side to his stories. In this case, he unveils much more about women's hardships and struggles. Interestingly, Japanese women often get a lot of mistreatment and domestic abuse because of patriarchal normalization in Japan. He created Whispering Woman for people to understand the deeper meaning and point of view, mixing them with horror particles. The primary purpose of this research is to open the eyes of the readers, diving into the depth of the story, and deciphering cultural portrayals of Japanese women's struggle and hardship. The character in this story, Mitsu Uchida, is a representation of what women have been going through, trapping the desire for freedom in themselves, expressing them in another manner, even relatable tiny gestures can be found in Junji Ito’s illustration of each panel.