Localization Provision in New Zealand: Arabic Speakers' Preference for Different Paralingual Webpage Layouts.

Abstract

This research is designed to test Arabic speakers’ preference for different paralingual webpage layouts to assist newcomers to New Zealand such as international students,refugees and immigrants who have inadequate English language proficiency to access vital information available on governmental websites. Paralingual is coined from the prefix ‘Para’ (which means side by side or together in Greek), and ‘lingual’ meaning language such as in bilingual (grasp of two languages). Mixed and triangulation methods were used to collect data consisting of an online websurvey; an eye tracking experiment; and participants’ interviews. The results show: a) That the mainstreams of Arabic speakers prefer English text on the left and the Arabic translation on the right as a paralingual webpage layout; b) That inadequate English language proficiency discourages Arabic speaking newcomers from accessing governmental websites; c) That paralingual web design could be used as an educational tool; d) That paralingual web design is easier to read; and e) That paralingual web design increases trust in the government. There have been limitations such as the participation of refugees and immigrants in the eye tracking experiment and the participants’ interviews. There have been recommendations such as the use of paralingual web design in governmental websites for maternity and medical health.