Evolving Understanding
Old Journal, New Scope: Adapting to the Reality of Global Publishing
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Helena Gurfinkel
PLL: Papers of Language and Literature is a generalist, transnational journal that publishes peer-reviewed academic work in literary studies, as well as in language, broadly defined: translation, digital humanities, and visual languages. It has been housed at SIUE for 60 years and has been self-supporting all this time (i.e. reliant exclusively on subscriptions and reprint permissions). In the last 12 years, under my editorship, the journal has undergone an update via a new website, a FB and then X profile, and book podcasts. The scope of authors has broadened in that time, in terms of both numbers and diversity. The focus on giving junior scholars and/or faculty at non-elite institution access to peer-reviewed publishing has also proven effective. Currently, the journal is undergoing its “oceanic journey”: the majority of our submissions come from scholars from the Global South. An old-fashioned journal that used to publish essays on Hemingway written by retired Midwestern professors is recasting itself as an international publication that accepts work ranging in its coverage from masculinity in Arab novels, to European experimental documentary, and Blue Humanities in Central Asia. In my presentation, I will ponder the rewards and challenges of this transition that include 1) working with global Englishes; 2) finding peer-reviewers; 3) negotiating publication practices that uphold both PLL standards and principles of diversity; 4) looking at a greater variety of theoretical approaches, and 5) mentoring junior faculty.
The Effect of a Multi-Cultural Environment on the Language Used to Discuss Environmental Sustainability
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session Edward Hogshire, Labidi Bouabdallah, Usra Idris
This research comprehensively analyzes language dynamics and choices within sustainability discourse in the UAE. It explores how sustainability concepts are communicated in this multilingual environment and the influence of cultural nuances on comprehension. The study examines UAE government strategies for promoting sustainability, highlighting language choices and communication methods that reflect the UAE’s cultural context and vision for sustainability. It investigates the role of technological advancements and smart solutions in sustainability discourse, emphasizing the need for effective communication strategies that address the country’s linguistic diversity. Current strategies, such as simplified language and visual aids, are identified as effective in overcoming linguistic barriers and enhancing inclusivity. The research provides insights for policymakers and communication professionals to improve communication about sustainability in multilingual and multicultural settings, contributing to a better understanding of these dynamics in the UAE and similar regions worldwide.
