Faculty of Languages and Translation

Aspiring Surgeon Tutors Language Students and Serves as Role Model

  Aspiring surgeon and first-year medical program student Ahmed Alamoud recently received the Outstanding Student Award from the Faculty of Languages and Translation (FLT) - English Language Center (ELC) at King Khalid University. All incoming medical students take a one-semester intensive English language program run by the FLT-ELC because the core medical school classes are taught in English. This intensive English language program, called ENG 019, can be challenging even for those who students who seem to have acquired a fair foundation in the English language. The students who find the 019 courses easy are generally students who were exposed to intensive English courses or studied a high-level English course prior to their first semester in college and/or have lived abroad in native English speaking countries for longer periods.   Ahmed Alamoud was one student who excelled in his 019 coursework. His grades and English skill levels are exemplary. Although Ahmed never studied English at this level nor has lived abroad, he has mastered the English language to a near-native competency. Throughout the semester, he has exemplified a remarkable commitment to learn/master his coursework by dedicating a lot of hours outside the classroom to self-study. This alone is quite a noteworthy accomplishment. Perhaps more importantly, Ahmed Alamoud is graciously helping his classmates benefit from his expertise.   According to ENG 019 Course Instructor, Rasheed Ali Mohamoud, Ahmed has been assisting his peers both inside and outside the classroom with their studies throughout the semester. He has selflessly assumed an unofficial teaching role in the various English skills like: reading, writing, listening and speaking. Moreover, Ahmed Alamoud sets a good example for others to follow. Through his actions and achievements, he shows his classmates that hard work and dedication can yield spectacular results. Instructor Rasheed further said, 'Ahmed Alamoud not only offers to help the other students learn and understand the day to day lessons but he serves as a role model for other students'.   Vice Dean of the Faculty of Languages and Translation, Dr. Yahya Asiri, and Dean of the Faculty of Languages and Translation, Dr. Abdullah Al-Melhi, presented the Outstanding Student Award and commemorative plaque to Ahmed Alamoud. Dean Al-Melhi noted 'We are all highly impressed by Ahmed Alamoud's English competency. We are also grateful for his teaching contributions and tutoring efforts towards the 019 program here at KKU. Ahmed embodies the character of a competent professional and good citizen: He is also self-driven, disciplined, dedicated, and all around a generous individual. Certainly, he will continue to excel academically. Most importantly he will make a fine surgeon one day in the near future and a valuable asset to the community and his nation'.   The FLT has recently revamped the 019 intensive English program. The FLT has adopted a robust, modern, and effective set of courses proven to help the students achieve the results needed for them to stand out from the crowd at both the national and international levels. The new course was designed for the students to have access to a well-rounded learning experience. As a result, our students will have both the broader knowledge and an in-depth understanding of the aim of the intensive language English course. The new course is more integrated to successfully support the student to acquire a better understanding of the skills of the four core skills in English: reading, writing, listening and speaking. Of noteworthy mention, the FLT has created a better learning experience for the students outside of the classroom by commissioning the Language Enhancement Program (LEP) available to all students at the Mahala Campus school library. The LEP runs every day during normal hours from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. All of our students have been given an equal opportunity to improve their English language in all of the major skills being taught in the program.   The Faculty of Languages and Translation and the English Language Center are committed to providing world-class language instruction at the university. Language learning plays an important part in the Kingdom's national development program and Vision 2030. The FLT-ELC works tirelessly to make sure that our students and alumni have the tools and skills necessary for professional excellence and personal growth. Date: 5/6/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation
English

The Far East Meets the Middle East in Riyadh: Saudi and Chinese Delegations Convene to Establish Chinese Language Programs in the Kingdom

  Several weeks ago, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Crown Prince, Vice President of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Defense, met with a delegation of high-level government officials of the People's Republic of China on a diplomatic mission. The parties agreed to increasing the level of economic and social collaboration between the two nations.   In support of these cooperative efforts, His Royal Highness committed to teaching the Chinese language in primary schools, secondary schools, and universities in the Kingdom. The People's Republic of China agreed to help facilitate Chinese language learning through its own Ministry of Education.   The Confucius Institute is a Chinese Ministry of Education outreach initiative that is used to promote Chinese language learning and cultural exchange on an international basis. The Institute sends Chinese language teacher/representatives to schools and universities around the world. Many of the Chinese teachers sent abroad are college graduates who are trained as Chinese language instructors for non-native speakers. The cost of the program is shared by the Chinese government and the international host. Schools around the Kingdom will be hosting the Chinese teachers.   King Khalid University has already taken substantial steps to implement this new program. The Faculty of Languages & Translation is spearheading the effort on behalf of the university. Faculty of Languages & Translation Dean Abdullah Al-Melhi is leading the initiative for King Khalid University.   On April 26, 2019, a Chinese delegation flew to Riyadh to meet with several prominent Saudi universities including: King Saud University, King Abdulaziz University, Tabuk University, Princess Nourah Bint Abdul Rahman University, Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University, and of course King Khalid University. Dean Al-Melhi met with the Chinese delegates, Confucius Institute Headquarters (Hanban) Deputy Director-General, Yu Yunfeng, and Beijing Language and Culture University Vice President, Zhang Baojun. The purpose of the meeting was to begin the planning process for programs at the respective universities.   Deputy Director-General Yunfeng said (by way of an interpreter) "I am pleased to be a part of this new venture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I am so glad that our two nations have joined in cooperation for our mutual benefit." Vice President Baojun said (also through an interpreter) "We are looking forward to a long and prosperous relationship between our two countries. All of us have so much we can teach and learn from one another."   After much discussion between and among the attendees, the Saudi representatives of the various institutions arranged for follow-up actions that will allow the initiatives to proceed quickly and in an orderly fashion. Great progress was made with the Chinese delegation on establishing preliminary logistics requirements and resource allocation at King Khalid University.   Dean Al-Melhi noted "This was more than your basic 'meet & greet'. The Chinese language initiative is an ambitious project with an aggressive schedule. Bringing this program to fruition will require a high level of cooperation and hard work among all stakeholders. We have already negotiated certain plans, and the project is moving forward. This is such a large undertaking, and it requires that an entirely new department be created under the Faculty of Languages & Translation. We will stay focused and on point; ultimately we will succeed."   The Faculty of Languages & Translation is committed to the Chinese language initiative and to improving the university's existing language programs. Language learning is an important component of the national socio-economic development plans, and an essential part of Vision 2030. King Khalid University is dedicated to achieving regional, national and international goals while encouraging good citizenship and social cohesion. Date: 4-27-2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation
English

14th Research Day Achieves 2nd Position

  The 14th Annual Research Day, under the supervision of Dr. Ismail Al-Refaai, Director of the Language Research Center, was held on April 03, 2019 at King Khalid University.   This event successfully achieved the 2nd position according to the evaluation made by the Deanship of Scientific Research, King Khalid University.   This success was the result of dedicated efforts made the members of the organizing committee led by Dr. Abdullah Al-Melhi, Dean of the Faculty of Languages and Translation and Dr. Ismail Al-Refaai. The committee members included Dr. Sayed Rashid Shah, Javed Ahmed, Mohammad Adil, Azaad Hayat, Khalid Abdullah Al-Asmari, Faisal Alfadhil, Mohammad Jaber, Salahud Din Abdul Rab, Md. Mahmudul Haque, Amal Abdelsattar Metwally, and Ghada Al-Amri.   In total, there were 19 oral presentations and 28 poster displays. Date: 4/8/2019 Source: Mohammad Adil Siddique
English

FLT Celebrates the Fourteenth Annual Research Day

  The 14th Research Day, under the supervision of Dr. Ismail Al-Refaai, Director of the Language Research Center, was held on April 03, 2019 at King Khalid University. The program began with a recitation of the Holy Qur'an and a welcome speech by Dr. Abdullah Al-Melhi, Dean of the Faculty of Languages and Translation. In his remarks, he encouraged faculty members as well as the graduate students to take part in such an event and at the same time emphasized its importance. He highly appreciated the faculty members and especially the students who made substantial contributions to the event. He also suggested the researchers be more interested in topics having practical importance that would cater to our current teaching and learning situation. He conveyed his heartfelt thanks to the organizing committee who had worked day and night behind the scenes.   The first speaker of the first session was Dr. Abdul Wahed Al-Zumor whose presentation was titled “Stance-taking Strategies in Advanced L2 Students' Critique Writing: A Corpus Based Study”. His study explored stance-taking strategies as employed by MA Applied Linguistics students when they write a critique. Dr. Karem Abdullateef spoke on the subject of “The Effect of Training College Freshmen on Direct Negotiation Strategies on Improving Their Acquisition and Use of These Strategies and Foreign Language Anxiety”. He emphasized the improvement of students' post-performance in meaningful negotiation strategies. Dr. Hala Mohamed Osman Salih and Dr. Mazeegha Ahmed Al-Tale presented on “Saudi Female EFL Learners' Cognitive Styles and Reading Comprehension: Implications for Reading Instruction”. The paper focused on the cognitive styles of Saudi female EFL learners and their relationship to academic performance in reading comprehension. Tanzin Ara Ashraf spoke about “Strategies and Enhancing Saudi EFL Learners' Oral Fluency by TBLT (Task-Based Language Teaching) Approach”. Her presentation emphasized the application of the TBLT approach in order to enhance EFL learners' fluency in speaking.   The second session started with Dr. Ahmad Al-Faifi's paper titled "Why Does the End-Product of Students' Translations Not Match the Input (ST)?”. He concluded that many of the students' translation errors could be avoided if they made optimal use of the Arabic courses provided by the university, as well as the English ones. Dr. Adel Bahameed delivered a presentation titled “Nine Practical Formulas for Translating Proverbs” that aimed at showing the translation equivalences used and present justifications for the preferred equivalences and developing a comprehensive strategy or a model for translating proverbial expressions. Dr. Eyhab Abdulrazak Bader Eddin spoke about “Fleeting Glimpses into the Semantic Peculiarity of Translating Nouns in the Glorious Quran”. His paper concluded that the seemingly noun synonyms in the Quran are not so, resulting in a lexical asymmetry in translation. Rahaf Khalid Asiri and Ameena Awad Algarni talked about “Translation from English into Arabic from Linguistics' Perspective”. They highlighted the interrelation between linguistics (syntax and semantics) and translation, and how this relationship affects the process of translation from English into Arabic. Dr. Najat Ahmed Busabaa and Dr. Zahra Ahmed Misfer talked about “Stress Placement and the Difficulties Encountered by EFL Female Students at Faculty of Languages & Translation, KKU”. They highlighted the reasons for the inability to apply the rules of stress placement properly and practically by the EFL Female students at the Faculty of Languages & Translation. Shanjida Halim, Dr. Rizwana Wahid, Tanzina Halim, and Dr. Oveesa Farooq spoke about “Why Don't Learners Learn What Teachers Teach?”. They emphasized the fact that both teachers and learners need to go to the language classroom with well-determined plans or intentions. The last speaker of the session, Mohammad Adil, presented his paper titled “Practical Application of Learners' L1 to Teaching Meaning in EFL Classes”. He revealed that learners' first language plays a significant role in helping them with the clarification of meaning in a more straight-forward way provided the teacher simultaneously uses strategies to reduce L1's negative impact on the learning process.   The first presentation of the third session was delivered by AmatulHaffez AbdulRaheem Alvi. Her paper was titled “Multimodal Interactive Teaching Methodologies as Effective Tools in Literature Courses in EFL Classrooms”. She emphasized that there is a dire need of implementing multimodal and interactive teaching methodologies that reconcile traditional teacher-centered methodologies (LM, CM, PGM, SG, etc.). Md. Mahmudul Haque spoke on the subject of “Cognition, Metacognition and Autonomy: Understanding the EFL Learner's Cognitive Process”. He explored the connection among cognition, metacognition and learner autonomy, examined the EFL learners' cognitive process, and provided suggestions for checking the possibility to conduct empirical studies in order to identify the ways by which cognition, metacognition, and learner autonomy are connected. Dr. Shadma Iffat Rahmatullah talked about “Female Undergraduates' Inclination Towards Studying English Literature for Learning English Language”. Her study examined whether the students are inclined towards or are reluctant to study English literature for the purpose of critical study or language enhancement. The factors which lead to students' tendencies to avoid opting to choose literature for further studies were analyzed and presented. Ayman Hassan Hammady Zoli talked about “Mutual Intelligibility between Bani Malek and Al-Rayth Dialects”. The degree of mutual intelligibility between 'Malekis' and 'Al-Raythis' and the factors causing this phenomenon was highlighted. Dr. Eman Mahmoud Ibrahim Alian delivered a presentation titled “The Effect of Some Reflective Thinking Strategies Based Program on Developing Literary Reading Skills and Metacognitive Reading Awareness of the EFL Student Teachers”. Her paper examined the effect of reflective thinking strategy based programs on developing literary reading skills and metacognitive reading awareness of the EFL student teachers. Eman Alzaanin presented her paper titled “Theorizing Language Teacher Cognition: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Analysis”. She highlighted the flexibility of procedures in grounded theory to build a theory that effectively captures language teachers' cognition, explains their pedagogical practices, and depicts how language teachers perceive and react to their ecological contexts where they operate. At the conclusion of this session, Dr. Hasan Mohammed Jaashan presented his paper titled “Decoding Sense in Caricatures: A Study in Semio-Stylistics”. He showed that the relationship between sign and object in all caricatures results in one of the three ways (interpretants) and concluded that caricatures are mere connections between signs and objects. He explained that this results in formulating specific perceptions about the highlighted phenomena.   Besides the oral presentations, the following posters were displayed as well. “Paperless Assessments and Lectures in EFL classes at FLT Female Campus: Teacher's Perspective”, Aisha Alvi; “Interrogatives in Classical Arabic as Represented in the Quran”, Alaa Al-Qarni, Ashwaq Al-Qahtani, and Maryam Shami; “Inductive versus Deductive Approaches of Grammar Teaching and Learning: A Case Study on Teaching Grammar to Diploma Students at King Khalid University”, Amal Abdelsattar Metwally; “The Translation of Four Types of the Particle Lam (Casualلام التعليل, Imperativeلام الأمر, Denial Lamلام الجحود, لام جواب لو  in the Holy Quran into English”, Asma'a H. Albin Hassan, Saja Alahmari, Hajar Asiri, Ohood Al-Qahtani; “The Epistemological Aspects of Discourse Analysis Toolkit in Analyzing Business Texts”, Ayman Hamad Elneil; “Investigating the Role of Medical Terms Translation in Facilitating Learning Process for Medical Students”, Dr. Abdulrahman Elyas; “Utilization of Video Technology to Promote Saudi EFL Students' Authentic English Language: With Reference to Unlock Level 1 Course”, Dr. Ali Albashir Alhaj; “The Impact of LEP Activities on Speaking Skills: A Case Study on EFL Students at King Khalid University”, Dr. Dawood Ahmed Mahdi; “Hegemony of English and Englishes from Linguistic Imperialism and American Perspective”, Dr. Elsadigh Ali Elsadigh Elnadeef; “Demotivating Factors Affecting EFL Learning of Saudi Undergraduate Students”, Dr. Fadi Maher Al-Khasawneh; “Investigating the Role of Comprehensive Reading in Understanding the Contextual Meaning of a Written Discourse", Dr. Hasan Mahill Abdallah Hasan; “Exploring EFL Graduate Students' Attitudes Towards and the Use of Mobile Phones in Language Learning”, Dr. Ismail Al-Refaai; “Implementing the Eclectic Method to Teach English to Science Undergraduates in KKU”, Dr. Najmus Sharifa; “The Role of Motivation in Second Language Learning at King Khalid University”, Dr. Rafiq Ali Al-Shameri and Mohammad Al-Fuad; 'Ideological Conflicts in Tahmima Anam's 'The Good Muslim', Dr. Safia Asad; “Summary Writing Strategies Used by EFL Learners”, Dr. Wafa Ismail Saud; “Experience and Mystery of the Marabar Caves in A Passage to India”, Irin Sultana; “Attitudes and Perceptions of Applied Linguistics and Translation Female Students Towards Using Virtual Classes in the Master Program at King Khalid University”, Messadah Shaye Al-Qahtani; “Pedagogy: Learning Enhancement with Technology”, Nusra Mehtab and Sufia Sultana; “Investigating the Role of Classroom Interactional Activities in Developing University Students' Writing Skills at Arab Countries”, Rana Muhammad Nadim Akter; “The Impact of the Linguistic Hegemony of English on Saudi EFL Learners Identity: English Department-Female-at King Khalid University”, Rawiah Ali Al-Shehri; “Investigating Saudi Female Students' Speaking Problems and Solving Strategies in Asir Region”, Roa'a Abdullah Hussein, Khadijah Hezam Al-Shehri, Manal Mohammad Abdulhadi, and Nidaa Abdullah Albakri; “Linguistic Analysis of the Print Media Advertisements”, Saba Sarwar; “The Effect of Stopping Regression on Reading Speed and Comprehension of EFL Undergraduate Students of King Khalid University”, Salahud Din Abdul Rab; “The Impact of Using E-Learning Technologies as a Tool in EFL Learning/Teaching in the Department of English at King Khalid University: An Empirical Research on Its Effectiveness”, Samar Al-Almner; “The Impact of Age on Second Language Learner Fluency Critical Period of Speaking Second Language Fluently: A Case Study of FVIS Students”, Sara Ahmed Abdullah Alasiri; “Learning Goals and Teachers' Roles”, Sharmin Siddiqui; “An Interactive Tool to Promote Effective Learning for EFL Learners”, Sufia Sultana, Nusra Mehtab, and Richa Rastogi.   The Language Research Center is committed to enhancing and expanding scientific research efforts throughout the university system. Advanced research is a vital element of the national development strategy and a primary objective under Vision 2030. The Faculty of Languages and Translation is continually increasing its research efforts to contribute towards the achievement of these goals. It goes without saying, the 14th Research Day was a great success and it gave the participants an opportunity to discuss and share their thoughts. Date: 4/5/2019 Source: Mohammad Adil Siddique Multimedia Source: Mohammad Taisir Albokai
English

Working in Close Partnership with Community: FLT Visits Elementary School

  The Faculty of Languages & Translation (FLT) is partnering with the Asir Region Directorate of Education on community outreach initiatives. On March 31st, Habib Bin Zaid Elementary School in Abha hosted Dean, Dr. Abdullah Al-Melhi, and Dr. Eyhab Bader Eddin, MCIL, CL. Many of the students, along with some of their teachers and administrators, participated. The purpose of the program was to introduce the children to higher education and foreign language usage.   School Principal, Mr. Mohammed Farhan, first welcomed the FLT visitors to the enthusiastic crowd. After leading the students through a few linguistic exercises to pique their interest, Dean Al-Melhi and Dr. Bader Eddin transitioned their presentation into the fundamentals of translation. Of course, interpreting and translating are extremely complex disciplines that would be of little interest to most children. Undaunted, the FLT representatives simplified the concepts and broke down the process of translation into rudimentary components. Dean Al-Melhi and Dr. Bader Eddin used a 'down- to- earth' method, complete with simple examples that helped the students understand the need for and methods of translating. The simple and interesting method of introducing the topic came into fruition when face-to-face classroom interaction was observed.   Once the students were fully engaged, the FLT professors gave a brief PowerPoint presentation summarizing the importance, history, and methods of translation. They also showed the students the differences between simultaneous and consecutive interpretation. After reviewing the advantages and disadvantages of each method, the students voted on their preferred translation method.   Dean Melhi stated that, 'It is wonderful having the opportunity to reach out to young people. These grade school students represent unlimited potential, and the future of our nation. One day, some of them will definitely fill our shoes as professors, probably at the same faculty we are representing today, and they would bring back today's event. Vivid, sweet and warm or dim, distant and fading, their memory of today's fleeting visit will come flooding back in their memory. It is important to instill the desire for higher education and life-long learning at an early age. These cooperative outreach initiatives help inspire students, and present some of the career opportunities available to them as they mature'.   Dr. Bader Eddin echoed Dean Al-Melhi's sentiments in noting that keeping the Kingdom's youth engaged and hungry for learning is an absolute necessity. 'We want to show the children that universities are safe and welcoming places that help people learn more and do more in life. One abiding memory of mine dates back to childhood days back in Kuwait where I was sitting at a desk as a pupil. Evoking scenes from childhood days is retained for good with a delicate scent lingering in the air of memory', he added wallowing in a wave of nostalgia for childhood years. Dr. Bader Eddin then showed the students a series of short videos and multi-media presentations that reinforced the live lesson.   The Faculty of Languages and Translation is dedicated to community service and taking an active role in achieving educational and socioeconomic objectives at both the regional and national levels. Date: 4/1/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation
English

5th Forum Held in Cooperation With Al Khaleej Training and Education

  On March 23, 2019, the 5th Annual Forum titled Modern Strategies in Teaching English was held at the Saudi German Hospital. The event was organized by Al Khaleej Training and Education and the Faculty of Languages and Translation. The primary aim of the forum was to share ideas about the modern concepts of English language teaching. The event was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Mowafiq Al-Momani. The program consisted of two sessions and six presentations.   Michael Rattan gave a presentation titled 'How to Learn?' and Jordan Rimpela spoke on the subject of 'The Benefits of Teaching ELLs Affixes, Roots and Their Meanings'. Three other presentations were delivered by Bryan Bell, Mohammad Adil and Christopher Harris who talked respectively about 'The Psychology of Classroom Dynamics', 'Successful Classroom Management in EFL Teaching', and 'Living and Working in Saudi Arabia'.   A medical (PYP) student named Ahmed Abdullah Alamoud also shared his interesting English learning experience and emphasized its importance in real life.   The event ended with a certificate award ceremony that honored the presenters. This ceremony was graced with the presence of Dr. Musa Al-Ahmari, English Language Center Director. The forum undoubtedly was a great success. Date: 3-26-2019 Source: Mohammad Adil Siddique Multimedia Source: Mohammad Taisir Albukaai
English

Dr. Eyhab Bader Eddin Explains Translation Process Mapping

  Dr. Eyhab Bader Eddin delivered a presentation titled Translation Process Mapping: Key Tools to Explore Translation Cognitive Dimensions at a seminar organized by the Language Research Center of King Khalid University held on March 20, 2019.   Dr. Bader Eddin, in his presentation, focused on the translation process from the cognitive point of view. He explained the Communication Theory. He stated that this theory is based on the premise that product-based models are inadequate to explain the realities of translation. He noted that this theory was adopted by Nida and Reyburn in 1981. According to this theory, as observed by Dr. Bader Eddin, one is not likely to comprehend and respond to a message in identically the same way. The rationale is that no two people share the same linguistic, educational, cultural, social backgrounds.   Dr. Bader Eddin also mentioned that a translator is an active participant in communications who, either wittingly or unwittingly shapes or shades messages being translated. This phenomenon became widely recognized by way of Koller's research in 1979. Later, the 'Relevance Theory' (RT) rose in popularity among linguists and translation professionals. This theory recognizes a shift from static linguistic conceptualization of translation to a cognitive approach to translation.   It is worth mentioning that Dr. Bader Eddin is uniquely qualified to opine upon the various methods of accounting for cultural differences in language translation. He is a full member of the Chartered Institute of Linguists (MCIL) and a Chartered Linguist (CL). Many language professionals have never heard of the Chartered Linguist professional designation, and for good reason. The CL was adopted fairly recently, as per Royal Charter of HM Queen Elizabeth II in July of 2005. Only 520 translators worldwide have achieved CL status, only 3 of whom are in the Middle East. Dr. Bader Eddin noted: 'Enlightened linguists place a high value on all languages, and truly respect the societal values and cultural norms of the various peoples that use each language. Of course, translators and interpreters must have a thorough understanding of the technical aspects of their subject languages. But technical competence is not enough. To ensure truly accurate communication between and among people, language professionals must have a deep understanding of each participant's culture and society. Critical information can be overlooked or misinterpreted because of the inherent nuances of language. One must really know the society and the culture to completely understand many of these nuances. We all benefit politically, economically and socially when human communications are thoroughly and precisely understood. We all may suffer when things get 'lost in translation'. One must make a sharp distinction between 'a loss in translation' and 'a loss of translation'. All languages differ in what they 'MUST' convey, rather than what they 'MAY' convey, and it is between that 'must' and 'may' what has attracted Translation scholars' attention to write on such many disciplines as translation criticism, translation didactics, translation quality assessment, and descriptive translation studies. The CL designation isn't something used to pad a Curricula Vitae or a certificate for bragging rights. Accepting the CL is an acknowledgment of responsibility to use one's linguistic acumen for the betterment of society. I am proud to represent King Khalid University and the Faculty of Languages and Translation as a CL professional'.   The seminar was very informative, interactive and overall successful. Date: 3/25/2019 Source: Mohammad Adil Siddique Please click here to view a recording of the seminar.
English

The English Club: Supporting Learning, Supporting the Community, and Responding to International Crisis

Introduction The English Club is sponsored by the Faculty of Languages and Translation (FLT), and operated under the guidance of one faculty director and one student leader. The English Club has three primary objectives: English language skills development, community service and supporting higher education.   Recently, the English Club has been extremely active and busy. Due to the sheer volume, scope and variety of worthwhile club events, the English Club news is published in aggregate fashion as follows: Team Up to Clean Up and Green Up Club members conducted a volunteer clean-up day in a public park nestled in the Al-Souda mountains. For several hours the volunteers picked up trash and debris in order to beautify the park. The participants also learned about the benefits of recycling and litter-free environments. Local community members were thrilled with the results, and hope to join the English Club with additional volunteers for future clean-up days. Expanding this program will lead to the beautification of more areas and increased public environmental awareness. School Children Get a Glimpse of University Life One English Club priority is promoting higher education, and it's always helpful to start early. The club, led by director Faisal Alfadhil, recently hosted classes from the Al-Andalus Elementary School and Excellent Education Schools from Abha. Each class toured the university facilities and had the opportunity to speak with university students, faculty members and staff. The grade school students had a lot of fun seeing the university and asking questions.   The purpose of hosting these visits is to show children that universities are safe, supportive and welcoming places. When they reach young adulthood, they may not remember the details of their visit to KKU. But they will likely recall that visiting the university was a positive experience. This will encourage young adults to pursue advanced education once they graduate high school. Electronic Gaming Competition - An Outlet for Stress For several weeks members of the English Club sponsored an electronic gaming competition. The selected game was FIFA 19. More than 60 FLT students competed in the event. After much fierce but friendly competition, FLT student Mohammed Dhafer took first place. The purposes of the event were to give the students a stress relieving break from their rigorous academic obligations, and to promote good sportsmanship. Everyone had a fine time and congratulated Mohammed Dhafer on his hard-won victory. Weekly Coffee Talk at the LEP The English Club established a standing program titled 'Coffee Talk'. Each Wednesday the Club hosts a gathering in the LEP. The purposes of this program are to help students improve their language skills through informal conversations, and short faculty presentations on a variety of language learning topics. These gatherings are also an opportunity for students to socialize and exchange ideas.   Coffee Talk is every Wednesday at noon in the LEP (room A/3/1) at the end of the hall of FLT classrooms. All students are welcome. Refreshments are available. English Club Closing Ceremony for Spring 2019 The English Club has been very busy this Spring. As the semester winds down, the club members took a few moments to look back and reflect upon all of the events and activities conducted during the school year. Therefore, the English Club hosted a year-end review meeting last week.   FLT Dean Abdullah Al-Melhi sponsored the event, with English Club Director Faisal Alfadhil and Student Body English Club President Abdulaziz Dahlan serving as master of ceremonies. In his opening remarks, Dean Al-Melhi commended the English Club members and the club director for all of their hard work. 'Naturally, the English Club helps current FLT students improve their language skills, which is inherently valuable. As highly noteworthy additional benefits, the club serves the community, promotes good citizenship and encourages higher education to young people. We hope to expand the English Club membership to include more of our students and increase community outreach efforts' he said. The Dean further explained that extracurricular activity involvement teaches students to manage their time and broadens their university experience.   The English Club presented a video montage chronicling many of the events that occurred over the last few months. Subsequently, there was an awards ceremony recognizing numerous faculty members who participated in various English Club functions. Current club director Faisal Alfadhil thanked former club director Khalid Al-Qasemi for all of his foundational work with the English Club, and for ensuring a smooth transfer of leadership responsibilities. English Club Answers the Call in Time of Crisis The English Club took on an unplanned community service project in the wake of the New Zealand mosque massacres. Due to this most unfortunate event, there is a shortage of Holy Qurans and other Islamic material in the nation of New Zealand. The English Club has answered the call to help remedy this situation.   The club is working with the Mada Program to collect and transport Holy Qurans, books and related materials to mosques and religious centers on the remote island nation. Electronic Dawah Project (EDPr) Director and former FLT Dean, Dr. Abdullah Abu Eshy, said he knew he could count on KKU and the FLT to help. 'We cannot undo this tragedy, but we will do everything in our power to provide aid and comfort to the families and communities suffering in the aftermath. I am proud of the English Club members for volunteering in this time of need. Their efforts are critical. Our wounded brothers and sisters are far away, but they are not alone' he said. Prof. Abdallah Hady Al-Kahtany, former Dean of Faculty Affairs, explained that the purpose of the volunteer project was to provide books to those who wish to discover and learn about Islam from authentic sources. 'I am happy these young men came out tonight for a noble cause. Our work does not stop here. We will respond to all requests that come our way and play our part in helping to spread the correct message of Islam', said Prof. Al-Kahtany. Conclusion The English Club thanks all of its members for a highly productive year. The club also thanks Dean Al-Melhi, Vice Dean, Dr. Yahya Asiri, and Chairman, Dr. Munassir Alhamami, for their continuing patronage and guidance. The university and the FLT are committed to continuous improvement in academics and ever-expanding social outreach programs. The English Club is an effective means of fulfilling these objectives. The club has an open invitation to students who would like to join and participate in this worthwhile venture. Date: 3/22/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation
English

Literary Learning Looms Large at the FLT

  This past Sunday Dr. Mahmoud Radwan conducted a workshop titled 'Approaches to Literary Studies' for students of the Faculty of Languages and Translation. The English Club sponsored the event, and more than 200 students and faculty members attended.   The workshop covered a variety of topics. First, Dr. Radwan defined literature and distinguished literary works from other forms of writing. Next, he discussed the importance of creativity and imagination in developing literary writers. Dr. Radwan then reviewed the three major forms of literature (poetry, drama and prose), and the elements of literary works. Later he recounted the major historical developments in English literature.   Finally, Dr. Radwan discussed in detail the benefits of both reading and writing literature. Literature offers readers alternative perspectives and encourages critical thinking. Literary works from varying places and past times enhance readers' understanding of other people and cultures. Much of literature provides valuable insight into the human condition. It is worth noting that exposure to literature can greatly enhance a person's writing skills.   The workshop participants benefited greatly from Dr. Radwan's presentation. Many students were inspired to utilize their innate talents and capabilities to write literature of their own. While literature classes encourage student creativity, these special workshops reinforce classroom learning and enhance students' personal development. Students also received words of encouragement and examples of inspiration when Dr. Radwan referred to the most prominent figures in Arab literature. Examples of such writers include Nguib Mahfouz (Egyptian), Radwa Ashour (Egyptian), Ghazi Al Gosaibi (Saudi), Abdou Khal (Saudi), Abdelfattah Kilito (Moroccan), Ibrahim Al-Kuni (Libya), and Amir Tag Elsir (Sudan). The English Club is proud to sponsor this and other events for the student body. Each attendee at Dr. Radwan’s presentation will receive a certificate.   The FLT fully supports the creative literary arts. In a world increasingly focused on technology and technical prowess, people often overlook the inherent value in literature. The department is committed to preserving society's appreciation for great writing and contributing to the ever-expanding body of literary works. Date: 3/12/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation
English

English Club Hosts Social Gathering

  The English Club recently sponsored a social gathering at the Al-Lasan Campus which was open to all students and faculty members. Student activities director Faisal Alfadhil explained that he planned the gathering to serve a variety of important purposes. First, the event was to strengthen the relationships between students and faculty members. Also, the gathering helped further develop positive relationships among the students, and encourage their participation in future departmental and university-wide activities. Third, the event provided students in the department an opportunity to practice English. 'It is beneficial for language learners to practice the target language in a natural, informal setting' said Director Alfadhil. Finally, the festivities allowed the students time to unwind after the mid-term exam period, and gave them a chance to have some collegial fun.   The evening was busy with many activities. First, there was a series of 5-on-5 football matches. After each match, the prevailing team retained the field to face a new challenger. The football competitions were friendly, but fierce. Every team performed well, and each player exhibited gentlemanly sportsmanship. After a short rest period, everyone prayed en masse.   Next, the Spelling Bee competition commenced to the great excitement of the participants and the audience. Seasoned teacher and word-master Hassan Costello directed the Spelling Bee, assisted by Director Alfadhil keeping score, and English Club President, Abdulaziz Dahlan, monitoring the timer. After several rounds of excellent performance, the first-place finish came down to a ‘sudden death spell-off’ between senior students Fawaz Al-Qahatani and Saud Al-Shahrani. Many of the words used in the competition contained reverse ordered, double vowels which are notoriously difficult to spell even for native English speakers.   After a lively exchange of spelling efforts, Fawaz ultimately prevailed taking first prize with Saud as a most worthy runner up. Vice Dean of Academic Affairs, Dr. Yahya Asiri, presented the Spelling Bee awards. The top finishers received 100 SAR and 50 SAR Jarir Bookstore gift certificates for first and second place respectively. Many of the students who watched the competition expressed interest in participating in future spelling bees.   After the Spelling Bee, the department hosted an open forum discussion. All students and faculty members were allowed and encouraged to raise issues about the FLT department operations. Everyone was free to discuss issues, problems, suggested improvements and the like. The purpose of the form was to get honest feedback from stakeholders. This is an essential component of the FLT's commitment to continuous improvement. Among the topics discussed was the need for greater informal student-teacher engagement. The consensus was that additional social gatherings would greatly help to advance the goal of reinforcing relationships.   Vice Dean Asiri, Chairman, Dr. Munassir Alhamami, Academic Development Unit Head, Dr. Abdulrahman Almosa, Academic Guidance and Counseling Unit Head, Dr. Dawood Mahdi, and Dr. Saeed Al-Surf all spoke to the students. While their remarks varied, the theme was the same. The faculty and staff are there to help the students succeed in their academic and subsequent careers. In his address to the students, Vice Dean Asiri eloquently summarized the faculty adjurations in saying:   'Educating the next generation of leaders is a critical duty. Helping all of you become consummate professionals and upstanding citizens is our mission. Our nation’s future depends upon your drive, abilities, and integrity. The college experience involves many challenges, hardships, and frustrations. We encourage you to embrace every difficulty as an essential part of learning and a building block for your ultimate success'.   The faculty expressed optimism about student attitudes towards education and their apparent eagerness to make the most of their time at the university.   After prayer, the attendees enjoyed a delicious meal. The dinner conversation was lively and convivial. The discussions continued well into the evening, and a fine time was had by all. This social gathering is indicative of FLT's commitment to the students and higher education. Date: 3/9/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation
English