Saudi Cultural Missions Theses & Dissertations
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Item Restricted Unveiling the Digital Divide: Public and Private Spaces on Social Media in the Saudi Context(La Trobe University, 2024-05) Bahabri, Alaa Sultan; Bahfen, Nasya; McCarthy, BrigidThe emergence of social media has significantly altered the traditional boundaries between public and private, creating blurred spaces. As users around the world navigate these novel spaces, considerable research shows that they utilise various strategies to manage public and private. In the Saudi context, previous studies have shown that Saudis – influenced by Islamic privacy norms– tend to strictly segregate public and private spaces on social media using several strategies. Nonetheless, much of this research has primarily focused on users, with little attention paid to the influence of digital elements. This study investigates a common strategy of navigating public and private in the Saudi context, which is the segregation of public and private spaces across platforms. The study takes into account the influence of the platform’s interface and affordances. The study was conducted through three phases of data collection and analysis. The first phase involved analysing social media platforms using a digital ethnography approach; the walkthrough methodology to demonstrate the platform’s interface and affordances of public and private space. The second phase focused on investigating users’ perspectives and behaviours related to public and private spaces across platforms using a questionnaire and interviews. Lastly, the third phase delved deeper into specific public and private spaces identified during the earlier phases through in-depth interviews and further analysis the online social norms of public and private space. This study argues that, as social media platforms blur the boundaries between public and private, the proliferation of social media has led Saudi users to heavily rely on segregating public and private spaces across these platforms, taking into account each platform's interface and affordances. This segregation reflects the Islamic notion of privacy, and it allowed users to reflect and facilitate their culture and social norms in the online space. The findings revealed that Saudis preferred platforms with default public or default private design, while they negotiate semi-public platforms. Twitter was favoured as a public space due to its default public interface design, while Snapchat’s was favoured as a private space. Conversely, Facebook’s semi-public nature was rejected due to perceived openness, leading to its designation as a niche network among Saudis. Instagram’s semi-public space was also negotiated and was used as a functional platform. Finally, TikTok was rejected due to the perception that it is not culturally appropriate. 5 Further analysis examined the social norms on Twitter and Snapchat, highlighting the differences in public and private interactions. The study found Twitter users exhibited cautious behaviour due to its public interface design, and presented a collective self, with either a serious or professional personas. In contrast, Snapchat provided a unique dynamic, particularly as older users were present on the platform, leading young users to create a more closed private space that differed from offline private circles. Overall, this research underscores the intricate interplay of culture, technology, and user behaviour in shaping Saudi Arabia’s digital landscape, emphasising the importance of considering both the cultural values and digital environments in understanding these dynamics for effective platform design and policymaking.14 0Item Restricted Customer behaviour in e-retail: Investigating cultural e-touchpoint differences within the consumer journey(Leeds beckett, 2024-09) Alazwary, Wed; Andrews, DavidThe consultancy project focused on enhancing website engagement and expanding consumer reach for an SME specializing in vegan sustainable jewellery. With the growth in e-commerce within the Eastern market, the company faces the challenge of maintaining visibility for new consumers during their consumer journey (CJ). To address this, SMART KPIs were formulated based on the client’s objectives. This project seeks to gain insights into the behavioral effects, attitudes, and intentions of eastern consumers (EC) and western consumers (WC) during the online CJ. Exploring the online shopping behaviors of both WC and EC, the project utilizes consumer decision-making theories, Hofstede's cultural framework, and a three-stage CJ model (pre-purchase, purchase, and post-purchase). The literature review identifies a gap in understanding the cultural affects within an online context of the CJ and the identification of touchpoints deemed critical to consumers. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 10 ethnically diverse female consumers representing WC and EC groups. This sample was selected to reflect the client’s target demographic. Thematic analysis revealed several shared critical e-touchpoints, such as using Google and viewing reviews during the pre-purchase stage. EC place significant importance on social touchpoints like word of mouth (WOM) because of their collectivist nature and high uncertainty avoidance (UA), whereas WC prioritize incentives and customized content due to their promotion-focused behavior. To fulfill the KPIs and client objectives, the researcher proposed e-marketing strategies informed by analyzing SEMrush data, which evaluates the client’s current organic traffic and backlinks. It became evident that search engine optimization, involving keywords tailored to Eastern regions and partnerships with Eastern bloggers, could enhance market reach and meet the WOM e-touchpoint of EC. This approach is expected to reduce UA among EC. Furthermore, including a review feature on client's website, addressing a critical journey-ending e-touchpoint of both consumer groups, is recommended. For WC, strategies like incentivized deals and customized mailing lists are suggested to increase engagement and interaction on both the website and client’s social media platforms. Additionally, a conceptual framework was constructed to guide SME managers and marketers, illustrating critical e-touchpoints through the online CJ stages. This framework helps identify where consumers most often end their CJ due to unmet touchpoints, demonstrating the importance of a customer loyalty loop. By successfully addressing these e- touchpoints, the client can create a more relevant online consumer experience, ultimately driving continuous engagement and loyalty among their target market and facilitating entrance into the eastern region for greater market reach.50 0Item Restricted Cultural and Individual Factors Influencing Test Anxiety: A Concurrent Mixed Method Study of Saudi High School Students’ Perceptions of Test Anxiety in English and Math(Howard University, 2024) Albalawi, Yusra; Picho-Kiroga, KatherineThe purpose of this study was to investigate the level of test anxiety that high school male and female students experience in English and mathematics classes in Saudi high schools. The study examined test anxiety in both subjects from motivational antecedents and cultural factors that cause test anxiety among students. A mixed-methods study was designed, with quantitative data collected on structured instruments. Test anxiety was measured on the Test Anxiety Inventory (TIA) from a total of 280 high school students in grades 9 through 12 recruited from public high schools in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Qualitative data were collected using focus group interviews with 20 students (10 male, 10 female) selected from a sample pool of 280 students by a systematic random sampling procedure. The quantitative data were analyzed with means, t-test (independent and dependent sample), one-way ANOVA, and hierarchical linear regression. The results indicated a moderate level of test anxiety in all students, with male students experiencing higher test anxiety than female students. Moreover, higher test anxiety was observed in English than in mathematics. Motivation and cultural factors are substantial sources of test anxiety among students, and success expectancies were negatively correlated with test anxiety in mathematics and English; however, task value was positively correlated with math test anxiety. Collective social stigma was the only predictor found to be significantly predictive of English and math test anxiety. Five themes emerged from qualitative data: high-stakes tests, subject-induced anxiety, family and social bonding, incompetence and nervousness, and future aspirations and value of the exams. The study concluded that test anxiety is common among Saudi high school students, but that gender and subject differences exist, caused by several cultural and motivational factors.48 0Item Restricted Changing Saudi Arabia: Exploring the Art and Cultural Scene in a Country on the Cusp of Transformation(King's College London, 2023-12-01) Alhebaishi, Shatha Salah; England, LaurenRecently, Saudi Arabia has undergone significant reforms in various areas of the country, including art and culture. While previous studies have documented the development of the creative milieu in the country, there has been no eminent research exploring the current development of the creative milieu. This research aims to investigate the experiences of Saudi artists and curators within the context of the country's new Vision 2030 plan, with a focus on understanding how they navigate the tension between modern artistic expression and respecting cultural values and norms. Additionally, the research aims to uncover the challenges they face despite the reforms and the impact of Vision 2030 on the art and cultural landscape as seen from their perspective. The dissertation utilised a qualitative method using data collected through semi-structured interviews with artists and curators, providing insights into their experiences and perceptions. A thematic analysis approach was used to analyse the data, allowing the main themes to emerge directly from the respondents' descriptions. The findings argue that artists are navigating the tension between modern artistic expression and respecting cultural values by employing techniques such as self-censorship, subtly and symbolism. Additionally, the main challenges they continue to face despite the new reforms include the scarcity of venues to exhibit, the absence of art education and the lack of intermediaries and sufficient institutions. The findings will also consider the influence of Vision 2030 reforms on the art and cultural landscape, highlighting changing levels of public acceptance and changing societal issues. Moreover, this study calls for further research into documenting the evolving art and cultural scene of the country in order to preserve and improve the foundation of the creative scene for the future.18 0Item Restricted Exploring Saudi Families’ Engagement in the US Early Childhood Schools: Experiences of Bearing the Burden(University of South Florida, 2024) Alberaidi, Sarah; Han, SophiaA vast body of research in early childhood education has shown the positive effect of parents' engagement on children's emotional, cognitive, and social development. However, researchers identified limitations to parent involvement activities within the culturally diverse context. The purpose of this case study was to fill the literature gap in exploring how Saudi families engage in their children's early education in the United States. Within the context of sociocultural theory, Muscrit theory, family ethnothories, and mirror, window, sliding glass doors framework, this study aimed to understand the family engagement practices of three Saudi families whose children enrolled in early childhood U.S. schools. Semi-structured interviews with both parents and documents were used to collect the data. The data were thematically analyzed. This study's findings revealed that a welcoming and uncomplicated environment helped Saudi families to engage in their children's schools. The families also stated challenges and obstacles that affected their engagement practices in their children's schools and at home. Islamic beliefs, cultural norms, personal preferences, and social anticipations create a burden and a barrier for Saudi families to be able to engage in their children's schools actively. This study discussed implications and recommendations for early childhood schools, programs, teachers, and teacher education programs. Understanding Saudi families' perceptions and experiences in the U.S. early childhood education has the potential to offer valuable insights that can guide our approach and future investigations in the field of early childhood education.33 0Item Restricted Investigating the Treatment of Culture in English Language Education within a Saudi University Setting(University of Southampton, 2024-07-31) Altheebi, Jaber; Baird, RobertIn the rapidly evolving landscape of global education, the treatment of culture in English language education (ELE) plays a pivotal role, particularly in contexts undergoing significant transitions. Saudi Arabia, with its ambitious Vision 2030, finds itself at the intersection of tradition and transformation, providing a unique context for examining culture within ELE settings. This PhD thesis delves deep into the intricacies of culture and its role in ELE during this transformative period in Saudi Arabia, underlining the challenges and opportunities it presents. It critically examines such treatment through an ecological lens, capturing the interplay of cultural constructs across educational ecosystems. Such an exploration not only enriches the field of applied linguistics with insights from the Saudi context but also offers theoretical advancements regarding the intertwined relationship between culture, language, and education. To elucidate this relationship, this study delves into educational policies, textbooks, observational data, and insights gathered from interviews. This multifaceted approach seeks to unravel various treatments of culture at various ecosystem levels that constitute the researched setting. The findings of this study reveal diverse, and sometimes contradictory, treatments of culture within the selected Saudi ELE setting, illuminating a divergence between educational policies and textbooks, and actual teaching practices. While educational policies and textbooks used within this setting call for inclusion of cultural discussions, the actual classroom interactions often prioritise traditional language instruction over cultural discussions. This observed divergence can be attributed to discrepancies between policy interpretations, teachers’ and students’ sociocultural affiliations, and overarching perceptions of the role of culture in education. Such divergence prompts critical questions about the forces influencing this shift. This tension not only underscores the intricacies of integrating culture in ELE, but also offers broader insights into the complex and emergent relationship between policy, pedagogy, and real classroom practices.26 0Item Restricted Intersections of Faith and Culture: Arabic-Islamic Civilization Revisited.(Columbia University, 2024-04-16) Alanazi, Nada; Vacca, Alison; Rodrigues, ShaunnaThe intricate relationship between faith, culture, and civilization has long been a focal point of scholarly inquiry, nowhere more pronounced than in the context of Arabic civilization. This paper revisits these intersections, with a particular focus on the role of Muslims, tracing the trajectory from pre-Islamic Arabia through the emergence of Islam and its subsequent influence on Arabic civilization. I start by exploring the socio-cultural landscape of pre-Islamic Arab societies, with a particular focus on the tribe of Quraysh. Characterized by diverse tribal structures and religious practices, this preliminary analysis sets the stage for understanding the cultural milieu that paved the way for the advent of Islam. The rise of Islam in the 7th century CE marks a pivotal moment in Arab history, profoundly shaping the trajectory of Arabic civilization. I attempt to scrutinize the transformative impact of Islam on various facets of Arab life, including governance, law, literature, architecture, and the arts. In an effort to explore the subsequent evolution of Arabic civilization, this research extends to the flourishing of Islamic civilization in Al-Andalus, with a particular focus on investigating architectural developments during this era. I also undertake an examination of the term "Civilization" through the lens of prominent Arab writers, such as Ibn Khaldun, Jurji Zaydan, and others, with the aim of tracing its conceptual evolution across literary works. Ibn Khaldun, a renowned 14th-century Arab historian and scholar, provided seminal insights into the nature and dynamics of civilization in his magnum opus, The Muqaddimah. His sociological theories, particularly the concept of ʿAṣabiyya or social cohesion, offer valuable perspectives on the rise and fall of civilizations. Similarly, Jurji Zaydan, a prominent figure of the Nahḍa movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, explored themes of civilization, progress, and cultural identity in his works. By analyzing the writings of these Arab thinkers and tracing the depiction of civilization across various genres of literature, I aim to gain deeper insights into the Arab conceptualization of civilization and its significance in shaping cultural discourse. I conclude this paper by asking a crucial question: Did Muslims fail Arabic civilization? By critically examining the historical record, I will explore whether the initial kindle ignited by Islam continued to illuminate the path of Arab cultural and intellectual advancement. This question serves as a starting point for further discussion and analysis, inviting us to contemplate the complex interplay between faith and culture in shaping the destiny of a civilization.142 0Item Restricted Dates Museum(New York Tech, 2024-05-16) Alowaifi, Saud; Kerigan, ChristineUnderstanding culture is easier when it's fun and engaging. That's the idea behind the Dates Museum, a place that celebrates the importance of dates in Saudi Arabian culture. This project came to life because we wanted to educate people about dates in a way that's enjoyable and interesting. I looked at different ways to teach people about dates, and I found that hands-on experiences work best. So, the Dates Museum is designed to let visitors not only learn about dates but also taste them, touch them, and have fun with them. This museum isn't just about dates; it's about bringing people together to appreciate Saudi Arabian heritage. By offering an immersive experience, Dates Museum hopes to spark curiosity and create a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of dates. In a nutshell, Dates Museum is a fun and interactive way to learn about dates and Saudi Arabian culture. It's a place where education meets enjoyment.80 0Item Restricted Community Harem(Pratt Institute, 2024-05-15) Aluhaib, Sara; Freedman, NinaIssue: The shift in occupancy of space, from gendered segregated to free mixing settings in public spaces ignores the cultural and religious needs of the traditional Saudi woman, depriving her of a safe space where she feels the freedom of self-expression. A secondary shift for contemporary Saudi women is the limited opportunities to gather and connect as a private community. Typically, a Saudi household contained two Majlis areas, one for men and one for women accompanied by a dining lounge next to each Majlis. The current absence of gathering space for women can be seen in middle-class homes in major cities, Many middle-class families settle in houses with less area, compromising the size and quantity of the Majlis. (1) The average Middle-class home still contains a designated area for men, and public spaces are enjoyed by both genders. Another problem is the absence of a space for women to uncover, which has led to high rates of Vitamin D deficiency in Saudi women, which reached 60.2%. (2) Program: The proposal is a women-only community center targeting middle-class Saudi women from different age groups. What they have in common is Islamic values, being traditional and modest, while enjoying modernity and a contemporary lifestyle. It is located in the heart of old Riyadh, surrounded by significant historical sights and commercial streets. The site is a Najdy abandoned house near a public garden and a mosque. The possibility for grafting new spaces into a historic shell, sheltered interior, and exposed exterior space, and its colocation with a mosque. Najdy Architecture is a simple style developed in the center of the Arabian peninsula, known for adobe as a primary building material, introverted buildings, and inner courtyards. (3) Symbolism can be found in woven textiles such as ‘Sadu’ which is made with Camel fur and used for tents. Strategies: This thesis aims to change the narrative on Saudi women’s culture, nurture and celebrate Saudi women’s current success as well as their rich heritage through design strategies of symbolism, materiality, craft, color, joining new interiors into a historic fabric, and layering of the threshold. New and old symbolism will be integrated into the design in multiple ways such as the merging, openings, transitions, structure, and texture of solid and soft surfaces. Adobe and local raw materials are going to be primarily used with glass and steel. Colors are derived from the environment mixed with bright and modern touches. Source: The rise in land plot prices in the city of Riyadh during the last 20 years. Nov 24, 2020. Mutoon Tech Article Vitamin D Deficiency and Associated Risk Factors in Women from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. By Nora A. AlFaris, 1 Nora M. AlKehayez,1 Fatema I. AlMushawah,2 AbdulRhman N. AlNaeem,2 Nadia D. AlAmri,3 and Ebtisam S. AlMudawah3 Traditional Architecture in Najd, Saudi Arabia. By Geoffrey King35 0Item Restricted Advances in career development: Unveiling the voices of women academics in Saudi Arabia(Newcastle University, 2024-04-23) Alslmee, Johara; Connell, Julia; Ryan, Suzanne; Wechtler, HeidiSaudi Arabia has among the world's lowest rates of female workforce participation. For cultural reasons, women have been restricted in their work and careers. However, since 2016 the situation has changed with a major government initiative, Vision 2030, that encourages Saudi women to enter the workforce and pursue careers. The research presented here was motivated by a desire to understand how women navigate their careers and how Vision 2030 might affect this. The focus of the research, undertaken during this time of change, is Saudi academic women and their career experiences. General career development theories and literature on women’s careers are typically Western, emphasising individual and organisational factors with little regard for context, including culture, religion, and individual agency. The few studies of women’s careers in Arabic nations identify career barriers but tend to regard all Middle Eastern women as the same and fail to examine how women navigate these barriers. The aim of the research was to investigate how Saudi Arabian women academics exert their agency in traversing career barriers within the context of Islam, segregated workplaces, and a restrictive national culture. An exploratory, qualitative, multi-case study research design was employed to address the research aim. Semi-structured interviews were held with 30 academics from three public universities in different regions in Saudi Arabia. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis and organised into four composite narratives representing four hypothetical women academics at four different stages of their careers: early career; junior without a PhD; mid-career with overseas experience; and senior academic in a management position. Because of the inclusion of context, Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) (Lent & Brown, 1996; Lent et al., 1994) was used as a guiding theoretical framework. Through the four composite narratives, the women make a distinction between religion and culture, using their religion to resist cultural power imbalances, patriarchy, and unfair practices within their organisational cultures. These women exercised their agency in various ways to tackle career challenges and seize opportunities where they could. However, their agency is individual rather than collective as they lack support from colleagues, policies, and the organisational culture. Although the women actively resist male-dominated structures and negative sub-cultures, at times their behaviours inadvertently reinforce these problems by vii undermining the authority of female colleagues and perpetuating the cultural belief in male superiority. The research moves away from the typical Western portrayal of Muslim women as helpless victims, instead recognising them as individuals who exercise their own forms of agency within the structural and religious contexts of their lives and workplaces. Overall, the findings augur well for Saudi women being able to embrace and accelerate change. Importantly, apart from the novel use of composite narratives, the thesis contributes to three literatures: management theory generally exemplified through career development theory; specific contributions to extending factors in SCCT; and contributions to gender studies and Islamic feminism. Additionally, it offers practical implications for higher education, and university policymakers, and academic women leaders.65 0
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