Employing Information and Communication Technology to Preserve National Identity Among Expatriates: A Literature Review
摘要
Information and communication technology (ICT) has become the primary means of communication, transforming into virtual communities that transcend spatial and temporal boundaries. Through ICT, cultures are exchanged, leading to cultural integration. Simultaneously, this technology acts as a bridge connecting expatriates with their homelands. This study examines the employment of ICT to preserve national identity among expatriates. It aims to identify the impact of utilizing technology on helping expatriates stay updated on developments in their home countries, introduce their children to their cultural heritage, and strengthen social ties with their compatriots. To achieve this goal, the study reviewed previous studies, hypothesizing that ICT has been employed to help expatriates maintain their national identity. To verify this hypothesis, a descriptive-analytical approach was adopted due to its suitability for the study's nature, relying on the discussion of several Arab and foreign studies. The study concluded that ICT is effectively utilized in several areas, such as identifying job opportunities abroad, connecting expatriates with their home country and staying updated on its developments, and communicating during social events like religious holidays to strengthen their connection with their community.