Language Enhancement Program

  On October 22, 2019, E-Learning Unit Supervisor Mohsin Khan held a workshop on 'E-Writing'. The workshop, organized by the E-Learning Unit at the Faculty of Languages and Translation, was for all English language majors. The purpose was to help students improve their English writing using a variety of free services available on the internet.   The focus was on writing strategy, and the presenter guided the audience through the computer-based exercises. As such, students at most any level of English study benefited from the program. More than 25 students ranging from incoming freshmen to graduating seniors participated, and everybody was able to practice using the web-based writing assistance resources.   This workshop was important for all of those majoring in English. Unquestionably, writing is without question the most difficult of the language skills. On average, it takes about 10,000 hours of practice to become a proficient writer. Obviously, writing in the classroom and on exams is not sufficient experience for such an achievement. Students must practice outside of class for a period of years. Further, writing is a 'perishable' skill. Writing ability deteriorates quickly without continual practice. These are the reasons that 'E-Writing' is so valuable.   E-Writing allows students to practice efficiently. The programs can point out errors and make suggestions. This allows the students to write more material with a greater degree of confidence. Before the advent of online writing coaching, a student would need an experienced coach or tutor to sit with him/her to derive a similar benefit. E-Writing allows much higher proficiency in a reasonable amount of time. "In today's E-Writing Workshop, students were exposed to online resources and websites for improving writing skills. Students were informed about online writing skill courses offered at online platforms such as FutureLearn.com, edX, Alison, Coursera, Canvas Network, and Udemy. Students were also familiarized with writing resources of the British Council, BBC and websites for IELTS and TOEFL preparation. Students were given three moderately difficult online writing tasks, and I am happy to say that they enthusiastically participated in all the tasks and completed them," said Mr. Khan.   The Faculty of Languages and Translation is dedicated to providing cutting edge language learning services to all of the students. Those wishing for more information can contact Mr. Khan at mokhan@kku.edu.sa. Date: 10/22/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  On October 22, 2019, E-Learning Unit Supervisor Mohsin Khan held a workshop on 'E-Writing'. The workshop, organized by the E-Learning Unit at the Faculty of Languages and Translation, was for all English language majors. The purpose was to help students improve their English writing using a variety of free services available on the internet.   The focus was on writing strategy, and the presenter guided the audience through the computer-based exercises. As such, students at most any level of English study benefited from the program. More than 25 students ranging from incoming freshmen to graduating seniors participated, and everybody was able to practice using the web-based writing assistance resources.   This workshop was important for all of those majoring in English. Unquestionably, writing is without question the most difficult of the language skills. On average, it takes about 10,000 hours of practice to become a proficient writer. Obviously, writing in the classroom and on exams is not sufficient experience for such an achievement. Students must practice outside of class for a period of years. Further, writing is a 'perishable' skill. Writing ability deteriorates quickly without continual practice. These are the reasons that 'E-Writing' is so valuable.   E-Writing allows students to practice efficiently. The programs can point out errors and make suggestions. This allows the students to write more material with a greater degree of confidence. Before the advent of online writing coaching, a student would need an experienced coach or tutor to sit with him/her to derive a similar benefit. E-Writing allows much higher proficiency in a reasonable amount of time. "In today's E-Writing Workshop, students were exposed to online resources and websites for improving writing skills. Students were informed about online writing skill courses offered at online platforms such as FutureLearn.com, edX, Alison, Coursera, Canvas Network, and Udemy. Students were also familiarized with writing resources of the British Council, BBC and websites for IELTS and TOEFL preparation. Students were given three moderately difficult online writing tasks, and I am happy to say that they enthusiastically participated in all the tasks and completed them," said Mr. Khan.   The Faculty of Languages and Translation is dedicated to providing cutting edge language learning services to all of the students. Those wishing for more information can contact Mr. Khan at mokhan@kku.edu.sa. Date: 10/22/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  On Wednesday, the English Club held its 4th lecture of the Spring semester. The guest speaker was Faculty of Languages and Translation Asst. Professor Dawood Mahdi. Dr. Mahdi is also the Head of the Academic Guidance and Counseling Unit. The subject of the well-attended event was the art and science of translation.   First, Dr. Mahdi explained many of the misconceptions about the disciplines of translation and interpreting languages. He noted that many people believe that translation is merely converting individual words from one language to another. 'Languages have diverse structures and conventions. Interchanging literal meanings of words between languages is not a method for effective communication' said Dr. Mahdi. He further noted that languages are rich in idioms, metaphors, and figures of speech. In these cases, literal translations simply do not work. Similarly, in many languages, individual words have multiple meanings. Therefore, rudimentary translation will often be in error.   Dr. Mahdi also reviewed some less common misconceptions about translation and interpreting. Some people believe that any bi-lingual person can translate/interpret the two languages. Dr. Mahdi explained that translation is a specialized discipline that requires advanced training and practice. He also explained that there are sub-specialties even for those who are skilled general translators. For example, translating in the fields of law, medicine, engineering, etc. require specialized knowledge of those fields. Another misconception is that translating and interpreting are the same. Dr. Mahdi noted that interpreting requires the language specialist to work in real time, which is extremely difficult even for those fluent in the languages. Finally, he noted that some people erroneously believe that translators do not need dictionaries or other reference material. 'Reference materials are the tools of the trade for professional translators' said Dr. Mahdi.   Later in the program, Dr. Mahdi told the students that which is required to be a successful translator/interpreter. 'First and foremost one needs to be fully committed to the target languages' he said. Translation also requires intensive training and many hours of consistently practicing the craft. Dr. Mahdi also stressed that translators must be scrupulously committed to accuracy and approach the profession with honesty and integrity.   In response to a question by a Level 1 student, Dr. Mahdi discussed the FLT general course progression. He explained that our BA program focuses on the major skills in the first 4 levels, then moves to three fields; namely, Linguistics & Applied Linguistics, Literature and Translation.   The attendees thanked Dr. Mahdi for his enlightening and informative presentation. Date: 2/26/2019 Source: Dr. Charles Forman

  On Wednesday, the English Club held its 4th lecture of the Spring semester. The guest speaker was Faculty of Languages and Translation Asst. Professor Dawood Mahdi. Dr. Mahdi is also the Head of the Academic Guidance and Counseling Unit. The subject of the well-attended event was the art and science of translation.   First, Dr. Mahdi explained many of the misconceptions about the disciplines of translation and interpreting languages. He noted that many people believe that translation is merely converting individual words from one language to another. 'Languages have diverse structures and conventions. Interchanging literal meanings of words between languages is not a method for effective communication' said Dr. Mahdi. He further noted that languages are rich in idioms, metaphors, and figures of speech. In these cases, literal translations simply do not work. Similarly, in many languages, individual words have multiple meanings. Therefore, rudimentary translation will often be in error.   Dr. Mahdi also reviewed some less common misconceptions about translation and interpreting. Some people believe that any bi-lingual person can translate/interpret the two languages. Dr. Mahdi explained that translation is a specialized discipline that requires advanced training and practice. He also explained that there are sub-specialties even for those who are skilled general translators. For example, translating in the fields of law, medicine, engineering, etc. require specialized knowledge of those fields. Another misconception is that translating and interpreting are the same. Dr. Mahdi noted that interpreting requires the language specialist to work in real time, which is extremely difficult even for those fluent in the languages. Finally, he noted that some people erroneously believe that translators do not need dictionaries or other reference material. 'Reference materials are the tools of the trade for professional translators' said Dr. Mahdi.   Later in the program, Dr. Mahdi told the students that which is required to be a successful translator/interpreter. 'First and foremost one needs to be fully committed to the target languages' he said. Translation also requires intensive training and many hours of consistently practicing the craft. Dr. Mahdi also stressed that translators must be scrupulously committed to accuracy and approach the profession with honesty and integrity.   In response to a question by a Level 1 student, Dr. Mahdi discussed the FLT general course progression. He explained that our BA program focuses on the major skills in the first 4 levels, then moves to three fields; namely, Linguistics & Applied Linguistics, Literature and Translation.   The attendees thanked Dr. Mahdi for his enlightening and informative presentation. Date: 2/26/2019 Source: Dr. Charles Forman

  On the 19th of February, the English Club conducted another student workshop. The guest speaker was Mohammed Al Fuad. The topic was 'Becoming an Exceptional Student'. At the outset, Mr. Fuad told the students that they are all so fortunate for their opportunity to study at King Khalid University. He encouraged students to go after their dreams. Mr. Fuad reminded the students to see opportunities in setbacks and to follow their own path to success.   Mr. Fuad then said that the title 'Student' is in no way trivial. Everybody in attendance agreed that being a student is difficult. Burdensome course loads, complex material and never-ending exams challenge each pupil. Mr. Fuad noted that being a serious student requires hard work and dedication. He explained that consistency is key. 'Good habits make for good students. Plan your work and study times, and then stick to those plans' he stated.   The faculty are there to both teach and guide the students towards academic and career success. However, each student is responsible for his own path and the consequences of his actions. 'The teacher will help navigate, but the student is the driver' he noted. In sum, each student is ultimately the master of his own education.   Mr. Fuad asked the participants to serve as role models. Not every student is well motivated and dedicated to academic success. Mr. Fuad told the group 'It is your duty to try and help those students who suffer a motivational deficit. Do whatever you can to help them see the light'. He further explained that a successful academic career will help make them successful men'. Finally, Mr. Fuad gave examples of past university students who overcame adversities and succeeded in school and in their careers. Date: 2/19/2019 Source: Dr. Charles Forman

  On the 19th of February, the English Club conducted another student workshop. The guest speaker was Mohammed Al Fuad. The topic was 'Becoming an Exceptional Student'. At the outset, Mr. Fuad told the students that they are all so fortunate for their opportunity to study at King Khalid University. He encouraged students to go after their dreams. Mr. Fuad reminded the students to see opportunities in setbacks and to follow their own path to success.   Mr. Fuad then said that the title 'Student' is in no way trivial. Everybody in attendance agreed that being a student is difficult. Burdensome course loads, complex material and never-ending exams challenge each pupil. Mr. Fuad noted that being a serious student requires hard work and dedication. He explained that consistency is key. 'Good habits make for good students. Plan your work and study times, and then stick to those plans' he stated.   The faculty are there to both teach and guide the students towards academic and career success. However, each student is responsible for his own path and the consequences of his actions. 'The teacher will help navigate, but the student is the driver' he noted. In sum, each student is ultimately the master of his own education.   Mr. Fuad asked the participants to serve as role models. Not every student is well motivated and dedicated to academic success. Mr. Fuad told the group 'It is your duty to try and help those students who suffer a motivational deficit. Do whatever you can to help them see the light'. He further explained that a successful academic career will help make them successful men'. Finally, Mr. Fuad gave examples of past university students who overcame adversities and succeeded in school and in their careers. Date: 2/19/2019 Source: Dr. Charles Forman

  On February 12th, there was a gathering of the English Club in the Language Enhancement Program (LEP) room at the main campus. The purpose of the meeting was to conduct another installment of 'Linguistics Hour'. The English Club Linguistics Hour is a continuing project to identify issues in English language learning, discuss methods for improving English language education, and to identify practical applications for the usage of English in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.   The speaker at the event was Faculty of Languages & Translation lecturer Faisal Alfadhil. Mr. Alfadhil has a close connection with the students in the department. After earning his master's degree at Florida Atlantic University, Mr. Alfadhil returned to the department as a lecturer and was recently appointed to the position of Director of Student Activities. Many of our students eagerly attended this presentation by our youthful, new colleague.   Director Alfadhil's presentation focused on writing systems. He began by exploring the historical origins and forms of written language in the context of an extension of spoken expression. He then reviewed the means by which orthography slowly developed over millennia and tracked these improvements through the modern era. He then explained how written language is one of humanity's most remarkable achievements, which has profoundly impacted almost every aspect of nearly every society on the planet. In the early days of human society, man was entirely dependent upon oral traditions. Written language allowed humans to create permanent records of useful information and sage advice for future generations. Historical, technical and philosophical information could be passed down without the inherent vagaries of centuries of oral storytelling. While early man's motivations to write are unclear, the importance of written language for society simply cannot be overstated.   Director Alfadhil then held a lively Q&A covering a variety of issues pertinent to writing and written language. Of particular interest was the discussion about 'Abjad' languages -- that is language containing only consonants and no vowels. Abjad languages (including Arabic) are very different from those that include vowels. Despite the fundamental difference, empirical evidence indicates that both types of languages are equally effective in all aspects of communication.    At the conclusion of Linguistics Hour, Director Alfadhil thanked all of the students and staff who participated. He further noted that 'Writing well will certainly help you succeed in your personal and professional endeavors. But also remember that writing is a precious gift from our ancestors. By writing you uphold a vital, centuries-old tradition of preserving records for those yet unborn'. Date: 2/12/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation Multimedia Source: Ayman Al-Faifi

  On February 12th, there was a gathering of the English Club in the Language Enhancement Program (LEP) room at the main campus. The purpose of the meeting was to conduct another installment of 'Linguistics Hour'. The English Club Linguistics Hour is a continuing project to identify issues in English language learning, discuss methods for improving English language education, and to identify practical applications for the usage of English in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.   The speaker at the event was Faculty of Languages & Translation lecturer Faisal Alfadhil. Mr. Alfadhil has a close connection with the students in the department. After earning his master's degree at Florida Atlantic University, Mr. Alfadhil returned to the department as a lecturer and was recently appointed to the position of Director of Student Activities. Many of our students eagerly attended this presentation by our youthful, new colleague.   Director Alfadhil's presentation focused on writing systems. He began by exploring the historical origins and forms of written language in the context of an extension of spoken expression. He then reviewed the means by which orthography slowly developed over millennia and tracked these improvements through the modern era. He then explained how written language is one of humanity's most remarkable achievements, which has profoundly impacted almost every aspect of nearly every society on the planet. In the early days of human society, man was entirely dependent upon oral traditions. Written language allowed humans to create permanent records of useful information and sage advice for future generations. Historical, technical and philosophical information could be passed down without the inherent vagaries of centuries of oral storytelling. While early man's motivations to write are unclear, the importance of written language for society simply cannot be overstated.   Director Alfadhil then held a lively Q&A covering a variety of issues pertinent to writing and written language. Of particular interest was the discussion about 'Abjad' languages -- that is language containing only consonants and no vowels. Abjad languages (including Arabic) are very different from those that include vowels. Despite the fundamental difference, empirical evidence indicates that both types of languages are equally effective in all aspects of communication.    At the conclusion of Linguistics Hour, Director Alfadhil thanked all of the students and staff who participated. He further noted that 'Writing well will certainly help you succeed in your personal and professional endeavors. But also remember that writing is a precious gift from our ancestors. By writing you uphold a vital, centuries-old tradition of preserving records for those yet unborn'. Date: 2/12/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation Multimedia Source: Ayman Al-Faifi

  On February 5th, there was a gathering of the English Club in the Language Enhancement Program (LEP) room at the main campus. The purpose of the meeting was to conduct another installment of 'Linguistics Hour'. The English Hour is a continuing project to identify issues in English language learning, discuss methods for improving English language education, and to identify practical applications for the usage of English in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.   The featured speaker at Linguistics Hour was Khalid Al-Qasemi, lecturer. Al-Qasemi recently earned his master’s degree in California, USA and is a recently promoted faculty member. He also served as the Director of Student Activities last semester. Given his educational background and close connection with the students, more than 30 attendees participated.   Al-Qasemi stressed the importance of good writing and reviewed the fundamentals of quality authorship. He covered the four basic requirements for proper writing: Grammar, vocabulary, spelling, and punctuation. He also explained that writing is like construction. That is, one begins a building block at a time. 'Words become sentences. Sentences turn into paragraphs. Paragraphs eventually become essays, articles, or books. That is the ultimate strategy for the complete expression of ideas', he said.   At the conclusion of Linguistics Hour, Al-Qasemi thanked all of the students and staff who participated, urging all students to work diligently to improve their writing skills. 'Although writing is difficult, good writers are valued and respected in all professions. The best way to improve your writing is to practice, and it is worth all of the effort', he said. He then encouraged all students to return to the next Linguistics Hour. Date: 2/5/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation Multimedia Source: Abdulelah Dhafer (Level 1 Student) & Saad Al-Shahrani (Level 4 Student)

  On February 5th, there was a gathering of the English Club in the Language Enhancement Program (LEP) room at the main campus. The purpose of the meeting was to conduct another installment of 'Linguistics Hour'. The English Hour is a continuing project to identify issues in English language learning, discuss methods for improving English language education, and to identify practical applications for the usage of English in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.   The featured speaker at Linguistics Hour was Khalid Al-Qasemi, lecturer. Al-Qasemi recently earned his master’s degree in California, USA and is a recently promoted faculty member. He also served as the Director of Student Activities last semester. Given his educational background and close connection with the students, more than 30 attendees participated.   Al-Qasemi stressed the importance of good writing and reviewed the fundamentals of quality authorship. He covered the four basic requirements for proper writing: Grammar, vocabulary, spelling, and punctuation. He also explained that writing is like construction. That is, one begins a building block at a time. 'Words become sentences. Sentences turn into paragraphs. Paragraphs eventually become essays, articles, or books. That is the ultimate strategy for the complete expression of ideas', he said.   At the conclusion of Linguistics Hour, Al-Qasemi thanked all of the students and staff who participated, urging all students to work diligently to improve their writing skills. 'Although writing is difficult, good writers are valued and respected in all professions. The best way to improve your writing is to practice, and it is worth all of the effort', he said. He then encouraged all students to return to the next Linguistics Hour. Date: 2/5/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation Multimedia Source: Abdulelah Dhafer (Level 1 Student) & Saad Al-Shahrani (Level 4 Student)