TOEFL

Three members of the Faculty of Languages and Translation presented an International Testing Training Seminar (focused on STEP, TOEFL, and IELTS) at Abha Technical College from 9-12 October 2016: Dr. Salem bin Dawood, Mr. Matthew Glotfelter, and Mr. Erich Beer. The training sessions were attended by a group of thirteen English Language Center staff members. Mr. Glotfelter and Dr. Salem devised the program. Besides providing training and sharing relevant information and tips about the examinations in question, Mr. Glotfelter was responsible for all the practical arrangements, which he did with his customary flair for efficient organization; he also acted as an anchor throughout, providing continuity. Dr. Salem wooed the audience with his signature charm and extensive knowledge and expertise. The attendees were an exceptional group, teachers themselves, and therefore also accomplished learners. Their high proficiency level in English struck us. They were responsive and very focused, with an excellent interpersonal dynamic, making it an unqualified pleasure to teach them. I could not help thinking that, had I had to handpick a group of candidates for this training seminar, I would have picked exactly those who attended of their own volition.  At the closing ceremony, the Vice Dean for Quality Control, Dr. Moalwi Naser Alawaad, assisted by Mr. Ahmed Najji, Chairman of the English Department, handed thoughtful and exquisite gifts to the three presenters, duly captured in photographs, after which all present posed for a photo session. The training seminar was a resounding success, and word of it has spread far and wide. It was an enriching, enjoyable and memorable experience for all concerned. The English Language Center at the Technical College envisages future cooperation with the Faculty of Languages and Translation at King Khalid University and is planning several follow-up initiatives to build on the momentum generated by this seminar. There is no doubt in my mind that they will follow through on it and that the efforts will yield sterling results. Date: 10/14/2016 Primary Source: Erich Beer Multimedia Contribution: Erich Beer

The Language Research Center at King Khalid University organized a seminar on February 10, 2016, which included a presentation conducted by Dr. Mohammed Assiri, Vice Dean of Academic Development and Quality which was titled, “Test Taking Strategy Use On the Reading Section of the TOEFL iBT: A Study of Arab ESL Learners.” It gave a concise overview of the reading section within the TOEFL iBT and what strategies Arab ESL learners employ when taking the exam. The presentation was primarily based on a Ph.D. dissertation study he had conducted to determine the strategies used by Arab ESL learners. The findings of the case study resulted in some practical suggestions regarding the effective and judicious use of strategies which should be taught by instructors and used by learners. The presentation was followed by an interactive discussion during which the participants shared their views, made comments and raised some questions. Overall, the Language Research Center found the presentation insightful, practical, and very useful. Date: 2/10/2016 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation Multimedia Contribution: MD Sirajul Islam

The English Club hosted an English Hour seminar led by Language Instructor, Hassan Costello. The training session was titled, The 60 TOEFL Structure and Written Expression Skills in 60 Minutes. The seminar covered test-taking strategies, a quick review of practice tests, tips to improving your Academic English, and an in-depth session on the Structure and Written Expression section.  Costello: The TOEFL examination is unique as it forces the students to use multiple skills when answering a single question. No matter whether it’s reading, writing, speaking or listening – all of these are strongly bound by time restrictions. You must be aware of the structure of the test, and focus on achieving the structural requirements within the appropriate time limits. I encourage you to use your power of prediction. The TOEFL test is run on computerized software. Keep in mind there are numerous slides and images that will allow you some extra time for planning and to predict some of the vocabulary of the topic coming up.  Date: 11/11/2015 Source: The Faculty of Languages and Translation

The Faculty of Languages and Translation held a computer-based test (CBT) for the 1st Midterm Exam in the International Test Preparation (ITP) Course. Matthew Paul and Hassan Costello developed, conducted, and supervised the CBT which was the first of its kind for the International Test Preparation Course. It is worth noting that offering a CBT for ITP’s Midterm Exam 1 produced many benefits, namely: -Listening and reading sections that require candidates to demonstrate their comprehension by performing specific tasks. -Immediate viewing of unofficial scores on screen (except for essays) -Individual headphones and volume control -Testing in comfortable, computer-equipped testing stations -Enhanced test security The instructors of ITP would like to extend their sincerest appreciation to the Managing Administration of the Faculty of Languages and Translation for their vision and constant support. A vote of thanks goes to the E-Learning Department for their continuous support. Date: 10-28-2015 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation