Overview

This research cluster centers on the multifaceted role of the Arabic language in shaping cultural identity and preserving heritage within an increasingly globalized world. From exploring cultural heritage as an avenue for intercultural competence to examining narrativity, translation, and the culturalization of AI, the cluster adopts an interdisciplinary approach that blends linguistics, cultural studies, anthropology, and digital humanities. Researchers investigate the preservation of Arabic oral traditions in the digital age, delve into how culture can inform and internationalize education, and assess the sociolinguistic influence of Arabic dialects on creative expression.

Focus is also given to the interplay between globalization and linguistic identity, as well as language hybridity and its ramifications for Arabic language proficiency. Altogether, the cluster aims to enrich our understanding of how the Arabic language and heritage can be sustained, revitalized, and shared globally.

Research Themes

Focus

Cultural Preservation Social Progress Progressive Education

Objective

Investigate how traditional cultural practices, oral histories, and heritage-based knowledge foster intercultural understanding and competence in increasingly globalized contexts.

Outcomes

  • Published research on best practices in cultural heritage conservation and education.
  • Intercultural training modules for educators and policymakers.
  • Community-focused programs promoting dialogue and shared cultural appreciation.

Focus

AI Translation Cultural Expression

Objective

Examine how storytelling traditions and translation methods can be integrated into AI systems to accurately represent cultural nuances, ensuring ethical and context-aware machine translation.

Outcomes

  • Scholarly publications bridging narrative theory and AI-based translation research.
  • Guidelines for culturally sensitive AI design and content development.
  • Collaboration with tech stakeholders to improve translation tools for Arabic dialects and narratives.

Focus

Digital Humanities Heritage Sustainability Social Progress

Objective

Digitize, curate, and analyze Arabic oral traditions to protect and share intangible cultural heritage, making it accessible to both local and international audiences.

Outcomes

  • Creation of comprehensive digital archives of oral traditions.
  • Open-access platforms for community-driven content and engagement.
  • Workshops and educational resources on integrating digitized oral heritage in curriculam.

Focus

Sociolinguistics Globalization Social Progress

Objective

Explore the effects of global cultural flows on Arabic language use, including code-switching, dialectal innovation, and the interplay between local identity and global influences.

Outcomes

  • Publications on language policy and hybrid linguistic practices in the Arab world.
  • Policy recommendations to balance heritage preservation with global connectivity.
  • Community outreach programs that highlight the role of dialects in cultural expression.