Narratives in Motion
Dr. Siham Alhaider on Language, Space, and the Future of Cultural Identity
In an age where language is increasingly digital and culture constantly evolving, Dr. Siham Alhaider stands at the intersection—decoding meaning, preserving heritage, and shaping the future of education. From Saudi marketplaces to Fulbright halls, her work redefines what it means to teach, lead, and listen.
Unifying Language, Culture, and Space
The Arab Today: Your academic work spans semiotics, linguistic landscapes, CALL, and more. How do you integrate these diverse research threads into a coherent vision?
Siham Alhaider: My research is unified by an exploration of how language, culture, and space interact. Whether analyzing the semiotic landscapes of Asir or New York, or integrating digital tools for Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL), I aim to reveal how language functions as a meaning-making tool within cultural and spatial contexts. My goal is to bridge theory and practice: scholarly rigor drives cultural insight, which, in turn, informs pedagogy and heritage revitalization.
Visual Storytelling as a Bridge
The Arab Today: Your new book, “Between Souks and Malls,” employs visual storytelling to convey complex linguistic and cultural narratives. How did you approach the integration of established academic practices with these innovative methods, and what role do you see for technology, such as AI, in education and the preservation of heritage for future generations?
Siham Alhaider: This book originated from my commitment to rendering linguistics more accessible and visually engaging. By employing visual storytelling, I sought to bridge the gap between academic discourse and public understanding, effectively bringing to life the rich tapestry of Saudi dialects and cultural spaces. A pivotal theme in my work is the assertion that “heritage is not merely a relic of the past but a living narrative that shapes our present and future.”
Furthermore, I advocate for the integration of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, in educational contexts and heritage preservation. AI has the potential to enhance our understanding of cultural narratives and facilitate the safeguarding and transmission of heritage to future generations. By embracing these innovative methods, we can ensure that the essence of our cultural identity is not only preserved but also vibrantly communicated to a wider audience.
Cross-Cultural Insight from the Fulbright Experience
The Arab Today: As a Fulbright Scholar at ASU (2023–24), what cross-cultural insights did you gain, especially in applied linguistics?
Siham Alhaider: The Fulbright experience deepened my appreciation for intercultural dialogue. I presented workshops on linguistic landscapes and hosted interactive dialogues contrasting Saudi and American semiotic environments. I learned how academic traditions and classroom expectations shape research collaboration, reinforcing the mutual enrichment of cross-border knowledge exchange.
Leadership Rooted in Professionalism
The Arab Today: You’ve held multiple leadership roles at King Khalid University including Dean, department chair, and CEO of Applied College. What key leadership principle guided you?
Siham Alhaider: The core principle is professionalism over emotion. I learned to stay composed, emotionally detached from daily stressors to make clearer decisions. This mindset, along with structured routines like daily to‑do lists, active listening, and delegation, helped me manage responsibilities and fostered trust and empowerment across teams.
Redefining Language Education Post-COVID
The Arab Today: As a researcher focusing on e-learning during COVID-19 and CALL methodology, how do you frame the technological transformation in language education?
Siham Alhaider: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly accelerated the technological transformation in language education, fundamentally reshaping the traditional classroom environment. However, this transformation is most effective when it prioritizes the needs of individuals—specifically through comprehensive teacher training, thoughtful pedagogical design, and the promotion of digital literacy. My research indicates that the sustainable adoption of Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) methodologies is contingent upon robust institutional support, the availability of user-friendly platforms, and the integration of culturally responsive materials.
Moreover, the pandemic highlighted the critical importance of human connections in educational technology. While technology can facilitate learning, its effectiveness is ultimately determined by how well it addresses the educational needs of learners and fosters meaningful interactions. As we navigate the post-COVID educational landscape, it is imperative that we anchor technological advancements in a framework that emphasizes collaboration, engagement, and the holistic development of both educators and students.
Preserving Identity Through Heritage Initiatives
The Arab Today: You are significantly involved in heritage initiatives that reflect the richness of Saudi culture, including your YouTube series “Heritage Talks.” In what ways do these cultural endeavors, along with your publication “Between Souks and Malls,” align with your scholarly aspirations and support the safeguarding and celebration of cultural identity?
Siham Alhaider: My involvement in heritage projects, such as the broader initiatives surrounding Saudi heritage and my YouTube series, “Heritage Talks,” is deeply intertwined with my academic objectives. Heritage work serves as a practical application of semiotics, allowing us to explore and interpret cultural symbols and practices. In our efforts to reconstruct bridal rituals through community collaboration, we aim to ignite policy interest and foster a deeper understanding of cultural traditions.
In “Heritage Talks,” I document oral histories that encompass various aspects of Saudi culture, including wedding customs, architectural styles, and culinary practices. These initiatives are designed to archive intangible knowledge and promote intercultural appreciation, thereby aligning my research with the preservation of tangible heritage.
Additionally, my book, “Between Souks and Malls,” delves into the complexities of cultural identity in contemporary Saudi society. It examines the interplay between traditional marketplaces and modern commercial spaces, highlighting how these environments shape social interactions and cultural expressions. Through this work, I strive to bridge the gap between past and present, ensuring that the rich tapestry of Saudi heritage is not only preserved but also celebrated in the context of modernity.
Milestones That Shaped a Visionary
The Arab Today: What’s been a professional turning point from your “Turning Point” podcast perspective?
Siham Alhaider: Three moments stand out:
Attaining my PhD. marked a pivotal transition in my career, embodying a complete cycle of development and self-growth. This journey enhanced my resilience and leadership skills, enabling me to contribute more effectively to institutional strategy.
Fulbright award. This global recognition expanded my research outlook and networks.
Publishing my book. Moving Saudi heritage discourse into semiotics and visual domains reinforced my belief in meaningful academic innovation.
Book Link: https://www.europebookstore.com/products/between-souks-and-malls-dr-siham-alhaider/
Turning point podcast link: https://podcasts.apple.com/sa/podcast/turning-point/id1641167619
YouTube book interview link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uClxMEno3PM
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