Identity From a Linguistic and Sociological Perspective

National Symposium: 7th Excellent Paper Symposium
January 20, 2025
Importance of Religious Diversity in Kurdistan – Iraq
January 19, 2025
Faculty:Education
Department: Mathematics Education
Type of the workshop: National workshop

The workshop in brief: The national workshop on “Identity from a Linguistic and Sociological Perspective” seeks to explore the dynamic relationship between language and identity formation in diverse social contexts. This interdisciplinary event will bring together linguists, sociologists, and other scholars to examine how language acts as both a marker and a medium of identity. The workshop aims to shed light on the complexities of identity construction in an increasingly globalized world. By addressing both theoretical frameworks and real-world implications, the event aspires to foster a deeper understanding of how linguistic practices shape, and are shaped by, social identities.

The Objectives are:
1. Interdisciplinary Dialogue
Facilitate collaboration between linguists and sociologists to discuss the interconnectedness of language and social identity.
2. Theoretical Exploration
Investigate key theories and frameworks that explain identity formation through linguistic and sociological lenses.
3. Empirical Insights
Present research findings and case studies on topics such as language and gender, regional dialects, bilingualism, and online identity representation.
4. Policy and Practice
Discuss practical implications for education, media, and policymaking, focusing on issues like linguistic discrimination, cultural preservation, and identity politics.
5. Future Directions
Identify emerging trends and research opportunities in the study of language and identity in multicultural and digital societies.
6. Networking and Collaboration
Build a platform for knowledge exchange among scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to drive future interdisciplinary research initiatives.

Participants: More than 45 participants

Date and time: 18-12-2024 at 10:00-12:00
Place: Tishk International University_ Education building
302 Room

Date and time: April 30th, 2024, 10:00am
Place: Tishk International University_ Main Building hall 401

Session topics: 
Session 1:
Workshop agenda: 15 minutes before the start
– Check technical equipment (projector, microphones, laptops)
– Arrange materials (handouts, pens, nametags)
– Welcome participants
1.Welcome and Introduction (10 minutes)
– Welcome remarks by the facilitator/host
– Overview of the workshop objectives and agenda
– Brief participant introductions (if group size allows)
2. Keynote/Topic Presentation (30 minutes)
– Presentation by the facilitator and presenter
– Focus on key insights, trends, or foundational knowledge
Session 2:
3. Interactive Activity/Breakout Session (30 minutes)
– Group discussions, brainstorming, or case studies
– Facilitator circulates to guide discussions
4. Q&A and Open Discussion (15 minutes)
– Address participant questions
– Foster discussion around key challenges or opportunities
5. Closing and Next Steps (15 minutes)
– Summarize key takeaways
– Share follow-up actions, resources, or assignments
– Feedback collection (verbal or through a quick form)

Presenters names and affiliations:
1. Dr. Suzan Sabri – Lecturer at Education Mathematics, Tishk International University
2. Ass. Lect. Minwas Jamal Rasheed- Lecturer at Linguistic Department of Salahaddin University

Outcome of the workshop:
1. Enhanced Understanding of Identity Construction: Participants gained a deeper understanding of how identity is not only an individual experience but also socially constructed, with significant influence from linguistic practices, cultural norms, and societal expectations. They explored how language functions as both a tool for expressing personal identity and a mechanism for social categorization.
2. Insight into the Role of Language in Shaping Social Identities: Through discussions and case studies, participants recognized the ways in which language, including dialects, accents, and linguistic choices, plays a pivotal role in shaping and reflecting social identities. This includes how individuals may align or disalign themselves with certain social groups through language use, influencing perceptions of belonging, power, and status.
3. Critical Awareness of Social and Cultural Factors: The workshop highlighted the intersection of linguistic identity with broader sociological factors such as race, class, gender, and ethnicity. Participants learned to critically examine how these factors influence language practices and how language can reinforce or challenge social hierarchies.
4. Collaborative Reflection and Future Directions: Finally, the participants reflected on the ongoing process of identity formation and the importance of fostering an inclusive approach to language in both personal and professional contexts. The session ended with a collective commitment to continue exploring and addressing the intersections of language, identity, and society, ensuring that future conversations and policies promote equality and respect for diverse identities.

Related Links:
workshop link