Workshop

  Two MA students named Raneem Riadh and Amani Hadi delivered a presentation titled 'Dyslexia as a Language Disorder', at the seminar organized by the Language Research Center on November 13, 2019. Raneem and Amani's presentation covered dyslexia facts, its history, the causes, the symptoms, and its treatment.   They began their presentation with some other disabilities related to learning, such as dysgraphia and dyscalculia, showing a few samples of language work done by those afflicted with same. It was noted that 'dyslexia' comes from the Greek words 'dys', meaning difficulty, and 'lexia', meaning language. Dyslexia is generally defined as a specific learning disability in basic reading skills and spelling, which is neurobiological in origin. While talking about the facts, they added that this is a common reading disorder and therefore the most common cause of reading, spelling and writing difficulties.   They mentioned its discovery in 1877 by a German neurologist Adoff Kussmaul. They also mentioned some famously successful people (Piccaso, Whoopi Goldberg, Muhammad Ali, Steven Spielberg and Cher) who had suffered from dyslexia.   The seminar was informative, interactive, and an overall success. The faculty members and the MA students at the main campus also participated in the seminar. Date: 11/13/2019 Source: Mohammad Adil Siddique

  Dr. Ahlullah Siddiqui delivered an interactive presentation on similes, metaphors, and idioms on behalf of the Faculty of Languages and Translation (FLT) and the English Club. The well-attended seminar included many students from the FLT and various other colleges. The purpose of the event was to discuss the importance of figurative language in learning English.   Dr. Siddiqui began by defining the different types of figuratives in the English language. He explained that we use metaphors, similes and idioms to make otherwise dull language or topics more interesting or dramatic. "Figurative language is a way of dressing up plain, everyday English and making it unique and fun. It allows speakers and writers to put their own style into language," he said. Figuratives also make the subject of a conversation or writing more relatable to many people and thereby can enhance understanding through greater clarity. Dr. Siddiqui then discussed other types of figurative language, including hyperbole, irony, etc. He noted that figuratives bring emotion, emphasis and a sense of memorable style or poetry to important concepts or points. "Colourful language provokes thoughts and emotions and adds spice to our language, engaging the audience. I am so happy to be sharing the more esoteric aspects of the English language with all of you. I encourage you all to improve your skills and language abilities continually," he concluded.   After the initial presentation, the audience participated in an exercise that helps explain the differences among various forms of figurative language. The students deciphered the latent meaning in phrases such as "time is money" and "icing on the cake". At the conclusion of the exercise, Dr. Siddiqui and the audience reviewed the figurative language as a group.   Special thanks to English Club Director Mr. Faisal Al Fadhil and the English Club for organizing the event and making this useful event possible.   The Faculty of Languages and Translation is committed to providing world-class language education and empowering the students with the tools to succeed in challenging academic programs. Date: 11/13/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  With the commitment to advancing the practice of quality assurance, the Academic Development and Quality Committee at the Faculty of Languages & Translation (King Abdullah Road Campus) organized a workshop titled "Implementing Basic Language Assessment Principles" delivered by Dr. Sara Sevinj Huseynova on Wednesday 6th November 2019. The workshop was about the assessment principles themselves and how to provide valuable feedback while considering the local cultural tendencies. The workshop highlighted that tests are subsets of assessment; therefore, they should never be the entire basis of how to determine the students' level or progress. The teachers might want to assess the students' performance by other various forms of assessment. Also, high-quality tests should be developed in accordance with the fundamental principles of language assessment. It is highly desirable that the teachers, especially teaching the new language for students, are very clear about what kinds of assignments are expected in the evaluation. Moreover, the assessment should promote reliable and consistent judgments by the teachers teaching the same subject.   Dr. Huseynova and the participants discussed the impact that tests have on teaching and learning. She explained that feedback should utilize the new discoverers of the neuroscience and applied linguistics about the ways of providing negative feedback to the female students in a positive manner. The handout on "Giving and Receiving Constructive Oral Feedback for Improving Students' Performance" was an additional resource for the participants of the workshop. It was noted that constructive and broadminded feedback will work, which assists the students in making one further step in a non-invasive and considerate way. Finally, correct feedback can improve attention, memory, and make the student's mental capacity closer to the positive intelligence brain. Date: 11/8/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  With the commitment to advancing the practice of quality assurance, the Academic Development and Quality Committee at the Faculty of Languages and Translation (King Abdullah Road Campus) organized "Bloom’s Taxonomy: Why Use It?" workshop on Monday, October 28, 2019. The workshop was delivered by Dr. Sheila Simpkins and it focused on how Bloom's Taxonomy can facilitate a seamless alignment between learning outcomes, classroom teaching strategies, and assessment. Using Bloom’s Taxonomy allows teaching staff to align course learning objectives, with lesson objectives, and assessment. The workshop encouraged teaching staff to focus on developing high-level skills amongst learners so that learners retain information longer, learn invaluable critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and in-class time is so much more engaging for the students and for teachers! The workshop was well-received by the participants and there was a strong call for more professional training to promote the practice of quality teaching, learning, and assessment. Date: 11/2/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  On October 29, 2019, the English Club organized a workshop titled 'Stress and Time Management' delivered by Dr. Karem Abdelatif Ahmed. The purpose of the workshop was to show the students how to manage the effects of stress and maintain high levels of work performance under stressful circumstances.   Academic Guidance Counselor, Dr. Dawood Mahdi, started the event with a speech encouraging the students to attend programs devoted to academic performance enhancement. He recounted his own experiences in managing his personal and academic obligations while in school.   Dr. Ahmed then began his program. He told the students that stressors of one sort or another are inherent in every stage of life. He noted that stress increases with age and increased professional responsibilities. Dr. Ahmed opined that the most important thing about stress is maintaining perspective. That is, not viewing every adverse situation as a crisis. We should strive to do our best to respond to stressful circumstances with diligence and grace, knowing that controlling every outcome is impossible. He also reviewed the unhealthy physical and psychological effects of long-term exposure to heavy stress. In short, he admonished the students to be studious and hard-working and to never forget that they cannot bear the weight of the entire world.   Dr. Ahmed then moved on to the issue of time. He stated that many books and countless hours of effort have gone into studying 'time management'. He noted that there is no such thing as managing time. Time marches relentlessly forward regardless of our needs or desires. Rather, one can only manage their priorities. Dr. Abdullateef stated his strategy: Set both short-term and long-term goals, and reduce them to writing. Set the objectives high, but not unrealistically so and give a target date for each. Make sure that the vast majority of your time is devoted to those goals, and track your progress daily. Avoid those activities that keep you 'busy' on things that are unimportant or frivolous. In short, focus and monitor on that which is truly important so that small daily activities turn into huge accomplishments over the long term.   Near the conclusion of the program, English Club Director Faisal Alfadhil spoke about how students can use the English Club's social media accounts to stay connected. He encouraged the students to join the club's WhatsApp group and connect with their classmates.   The Faculty of Languages and Translation is committed to providing world-class language education and empowering the students with the tools to succeed in challenging academic programs. Date: 10/30/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

  The students of the Faculty of Languages and Translation (female section), along with the coordinator of the Intellectual Awareness Unit (IAU), attended a workshop on Thursday, October 24, 2019, at Faculty of Islamic Legislation. The workshop was held by Dr. Nora Al-Faifi, who emphasized the importance of setting life goals and working hard to achieve them. "Life has many challenges, and you should set goals, find opportunities, overcome all obstacles, and work hard to achieve your goal," said Dr. Al-Faifi. Goal setting isn't just about creating a plan for your life and holding yourself accountable; it's also about having the necessary inspiration to aim for things you never thought possible, explained Dr. Al-Faifi. She added that having a goal written down with a date for accomplishment gives you something to plan and work towards. A written goal is an abiding reminder of what you need to accomplish, which connects you with your inner desires, and gives you motivational energy to exert all efforts to achieve your goal.   In answering the question, "What is your life purpose, and how do you plan to achieve your dreams?", Dr. Al-Faifi clarified that the Islamic creed is very clear; we have been created to worship Allah the Almighty. Moreover, Allah intended for Muslims to be active participants in society and hence commanded us to go out in the world to seek out the bounties of Allah. Dr. Al-Faifi emphasized that setting goals in life, planning one's future and designing one's own purpose in life is all a part of the Islamic teachings.   The workshop was followed by an open discussion about the significance of setting a goal in one's life. Many participants contributed by talking about personal experiences they went through and the struggles they had in their lives and how they were able to overcome obstacles to achieve their goals. Finally, the workshop was concluded with success stories of some teaching assistants and students who managed to accomplish their goals. They asserted that it is very important to set a goal in your life, 'invite' opportunities, believe in yourself, and work hard to achieve your dream. The workshop was very motivational for students who were excited about the discussion and the success stories.   The event was attended by the Vice Supervisor of the Intellectual Awareness Unit, Dr. Dawlah Mohammad Mane', and IAU coordinators from various faculties of the university. Date: 10/28/2019 Source: Dr. Amal Metwally, Coordinator of Intellectual Awareness Unit, 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

  The Scientific Research Committee of the Faculty of Languages and Translation – Female Campus – organized a workshop entitled 'Languages of the Academics: How to Write for Academic Purposes?' by Ms. Anjum Misho. The workshop was attended by the coordinator of the committee, level eight graduate students, and graduate students.   The presentation covered three areas, as it started with the topic ‘Vocabulary of the Academics', which was followed by an exploration of the ‘Language of the Professionals’. Finally, there was a presentation on 'How to Write a Research Proposal'. The presenter highlighted the significance of using professional vocabulary in academic writing along with following cohesion and coherence rules in writing. Some graduate students raised important points about difficulties they face in their writing of research papers, and the workshop ended with a discussion of problems and solutions. Date: 10/21/2019 Source: Scientific Research Committee Coordinator, Dr. Amal Metwally

  The students of the Faculty of Languages and Translation (female section) along with Intellectual Awareness Unit Coordinator, Dr. Amal Metwally, attended a workshop on Thursday, October 17, 2019, at the Faculty of Humanities. The workshop, which was held by Ms. Nora Al-Shamrani, focused on the significance of the feeling of appreciation and belongingness to one's home country. "Your home country is the place where you live, and to which you belong," said Ms. Al-Shamrani.   Ms. Al-Shamrani started with reviewing the history of the Kingdom and the significance of its flag. The flag of the kingdom, with the Islamic creed 'There is no god but Allah; Muhammad is the Messenger of God', is the flag used since 15 March 1973. She affirms that students should know the history of the Kingdom and appreciate it. Then an important discussion was raised on the power of the Kingdom and the 2030 Vision.   During the workshop, Ms. Al-Shamrani raised the question of how our students could be recognizable citizens, and students contributed with their answers saying that, in the first place, they should follow the Islamic creed; the Ever-Glorious Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him).   The workshop was followed by a warm discussion about what each citizen should do for his or her home country.   The event was attended by the Vice Supervisor of the Intellectual Awareness Unit, Dr. Dawlah Mohammad Mane', and the unit's coordinators from various faculties of the university. Date: 10/18/2019 Source: Intellectual Awareness Unit

  Vice Dean of Academic Development and Quality, Dr. Abdulrahman Almosa, sponsored a Self-Evaluation Scales (SES) and Self-Study Report (SSR) training workshop on Saturday, October 12, 2019. The event was co-sponsored by the Deanship of Academic Development and Quality. In attendance were the various members of the accreditation committee and the pertinent sub-committees. It is worth noting that both male and female team members attended the event at the main campus.   Head of the Academic Development and Quality Unit, Dr. Hasan Jaashan, began the event by presenting on the purposes and requirements of the SES report. "Today, I hope to clarify certain questions and to help the teams avoid the common pitfalls associated with an initial submission for accreditation," he said. Dr. Jaashan took questions from the audience and focused the group on hypothetical problems that could surface in the preparation of the SES. Program Coordinator, Dr. Fadi Al-Khasawneh, served as an additional resource during the question and answer session to help assure that everyone had a common understanding of the outstanding accreditation work.   Quality Consultant at the Deanship of Academic Development and Quality, Dr. Ahmad Farid, expounded upon the SES report basics covered by Dr. Jaashan. Using an overhead projector and handouts, he walked the participants through the detailed minutia of the SSR requirements. He stressed the strict evidentiary requirements set forth in the accreditation approval criteria. He noted that successful National Commission for Academic Accreditation & Assessment (NCAAA) accreditation applicants produce a detailed and lengthy trail of documents and related records. This evidence is both cumulative over a period of years and provides incontrovertible support for the statements and or conclusions proffered. He emphasized that while links to our website are very useful, these alone are insufficient proof of claims as per NCAAA regulations. The body of evidence must be both broad and deep. The support package should include material from a variety of both academic and administrative sources. Note once again that it is important to have an unbroken chain of compelling, cumulative evidence as well. Such is required for a credible application package. Although the question and answer session was generally quite favorable, there are some open questions concerning evidentiary requirements.   The FLT is grateful to the Deanship of Academic Development and Quality for its co-sponsorship of the event and Dr. Ahmed Farid's well-received workshop. "Thank you all for giving up part of your weekend to attend this most important event. We are confident that with all of your hard work, we will be granted accreditation in the near future. The entire college is anticipating the celebration that will mark the accreditation confirmation," said Dr. Almosa.   The Faculty of Languages and Translation is dedicated to providing excellence in all aspects of its educational offerings. The FLT, its students, and alumni deserve national recognition for the quality of the program. The department is determined to secure such recognition by way of NCAAA accreditation in the near future. Date: 10/13/2019 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation