On Monday, November 16, 2015, Dr. Ali Alamir, Vice Dean, talked about the essential role the instructor plays during the online L2 learning of Saudi English foreign language (EFL). His Presentation was titled Saudi EFL Students' Perceptions toward the Online Interactions of their Peers and Instructors.  Dr. Alamir's presentation was centered on exploring how Saudi students perceive and view the online interactions of their peers and instructors to help promote their L2 learning in online educational discussion forums. He related that the findings of the present study show that Saudi EFL students perceived their instructor-student online interactions more positively than their student-student online interactions. They valued the online interactions of their EFL instructors as more important and useful for their L2 learning than the online interactions of their EFL peers, he added. He also allowed the participants to discuss freely how further research should look at how students perform their second language (L2) and maintain their social presence during student-student and instructor-student online exchanges. The presenter concluded that the online presence of instructors appeared to encourage their students to think critically, express their thoughts, and develop their grammatical and spelling accuracy. For Further Review (Click Here)  Date: 11/16/2015 Source: FLT Web Team Multimedia Contributions: MD Sirajul Islam   

The Spelling Bee for English major students from levels one and two was held on Tuesday, November 3rd in Auditorium 5. Attendance at the event was excellent, and the auditorium was filled almost to capacity.  Nearly 30 students started out in round 1, and in every successive round candidates were eliminated, gradually whittling the number down to only three. The words were taken from a pre-chosen, pre-distributed list of 275 words consisting of one-syllable, two-syllable and three-syllable words respectively. Words during the initial rounds were chosen from the one-syllable words but got progressively more difficulty during the subsequent rounds. The students acquitted themselves remarkably well, and the audience got swept up by the drama as the battle intensified. Ultimately, only three contestants remained, and elimination questions placed them as follows: First place and prize: Omar Mohammad Ahmed Jama   Second place and prize: Mudawi Salem   Third place and prize: Hatim Ibrahim  In his opening address, the Dean of the Faculty of Languages and Translation, Dr. Abdullah Al Melhi, stressed the importance of making use of every opportunity to improve spelling since the English language is notorious for its spelling inconsistencies. In his closing address, Dr. Abdulkhaleq Al Qahtani, Vice Dean of Academic Development and Quality, reiterated the importance of events which illicit the use of the target language, English. The next, and final, spelling bee for the semester and academic year, will be held on Tuesday, November 10th, also in Auditorium 5. This time the contestants will be drawn from levels 3 and 4. The prize giving ceremony covering both competitions will take place at this event.  ORGANIZERS  Committee members Dr. Mohammad Nurul Islam Dr. Mohammad Osman Dr. Nisar Ahmed Koka Mr. Erich Beer Mr. Mohammad Adil   Graphic Designer Mr. Salahuddin Abdulrab   Judges and Pronouncers Dr. Sorin Ciutacu Mr. Matthew Paul Dr. Rafiq Shamiry   Event Management Mr. Ibrahim Alasmari Date: 11/03/2015 Source: The Faculty of Languages and Translation Multimedia Contribution: MD Sirajul Islam

The Dean of the Faculty of Languages and Translation, Dr. Abdullah Al-Melhi, presided over the commencement of the new English Club Headquarters located in room A/3/35. He was accompanied by Dr. Nasir Qemishan, Vice Dean for Student Activities, and Mr. Yasir Salimy, Director of Student Clubs. Mr. Ibrahim Alasmari, Director of Student Activities, gave an opening speech and congratulated the direction of the faculty. Mr. Alasmari commented the need for continuous development and further expansion of activities in the college.    Date: 11/03/2015 Source: English Club

On November 4, 2015, the English Club sponsored a seminar on improving writing and spelling skills at the Faculty of Languages and Translation in room A/3/35. The guest speaker was Matthew Paul, Language Instructor. This seminar was an interactive introduction on how to improve your writing and spelling skills. This well-attended lecture covered a variety of critical writing and grammar topics. Mr. Paul examined the reasons why many students face difficulties in academic writing/spelling, and the importance of overcoming these challenges. Also, Mr. Paul provided insight into that which is expected of them in their writing in an academic environment and reviewed ways in which students can improve their writing and spelling skills.  Date: 11/04/2015 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

Dr. Eyhab Bader Eddin, FLT Lecturer, gave (November 2, 2015) a keynote presentation on Translation, titled 'Pragmatic Equivalents in Translation.' Dr. Bader Eddin provided a helpful introduction saying 'life is a succession of communication-based speech act events, and we are revolving subconsciously around the field of Pragmatics, and we are orbiting this domain since the dawn of history.' He linked Pragmatics to Translation and explained the various types of the concept of 'equivalence,' i.e. referential, connotative, text-normative, pragmatic, and functional. He also described implicatures and their types, setting examples for pragmatic equivalence from literature, the Holy Quran, and political discourse. He gave a translation of the first line of verse of Shakespeare's 18th sonnet in a way that fascinated the audience. The presentation was concluded with some crucial questions related to the presentation. Please view Dr. Eyhab Bader Eddin's presentation by CLICKING HERE. Date: 11/02/2015 Primary Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation Multimedia Contribution: Mohamed Tayseer

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

Mohsin Raza Khan, FLT E-Learning Supervisor, delivered a seminar on how to use the QM rubric when designing, implementing, and proctoring an E-Learning Course. The foundation of the workshop focused on the Eight General Standards he applied to the ENG 011 Intensive English Course. He received recognition in this course for meeting the rubric standards with the International Quality Matters (QM) Peer Review Board.  The eight topic areas focused on are listed below. The Eight General Standards: Course Overview and Introduction Learning Objectives (Competencies) Assessment and Measurement Instructional Materials Course Activities and Learner Interaction Course Technology Learner Support Accessibility and Usability Mr. Mohsin also covered the various issues of alignment and explained what alignment means in your course. Please see information on alignment listed below. What is Alignment? Critical course components - Learning Objectives (2), Assessment and Measurement (3), Resources and Materials (4), Learner Engagement (5), and Course Technology (6) - work together to ensure that students achieve the desired learning outcomes. When aligned, each of these course components is directly tied to and supports the learning objectives. Specific Review Standards included in alignment are indicated in the Rubric Annotations. Lastly, he illustrated the various experiences he obtained as a Certified Master Reviewer with the International Quality Matters(QM) Peer Review Board. Date: 10/19/2015 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation Multimedia Contribution: MD Sirajul Islam

The E-Learning Unit and the English Language Center collaborated to organize a comprehensive 3-day online exam seminar focused on E-learning. The event was attended by the Managing Administration of the Faculty of Languages and Translation, as well as the Deanship of E-Learning, highlighting its significance. Mr. Mohsin Raza Khan, the E-Learning Supervisor of the FLT, and Mr. Ali Al Amri, Lecturer, took charge of hosting the seminar. The primary objective of the seminar was to provide students with thorough training on the procedures, methods, and best practices for taking E-Learning exams. The seminar garnered substantial attendance, with approximately 400 students participating. The seminar aimed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively navigate E-Learning exams and ensure a smooth examination experience. Date: Fall 2015 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation Multimedia Contributions: MD Sirajul Islam

The English Club sponsored a seminar on academic writing at the College of Languages and Translation. The guest speaker was Dr. Charles Forman, Assistant Professor. This seminar was an introduction to academic writing skills and procedures. This well-attended lecture covered a variety of critical writing topics. Dr. Forman examined the reasons why many students face difficulties in academic writing, and the importance of overcoming these challenges. Also, Dr. Forman provided insight into that which is expected of them in their writing in a university environment and reviewed ways in which students can improve their writing skills.   Date: Fall 2015 Source: Faculty Languages and Translation Multimedia Contribution: English Club

In coordination with the E-Learning Deanship, the FLT organized an E-learning Workshop for its new academic staff.    For questions or comments, please email otaiff@kku.edu.sa    

The FLT, represented by its Research Centre, had organized its own Research Day. His Excellency the Dean of the Faculty of Languages and Translation started the event by welcoming the participants. Different papers in linguistics, applied linguistics, and ELT were presented. Date: 09/08/2015 Source: Vice Dean for Academic Development and Quality, Dr. Fahad Otaif

The KKU English Club recently organized an exciting and informative trip to Makkah and Jeddah. The students took part in a full program of activities while visiting a variety of locations and institutions. The highlights of the trip included: Visiting Makkah and performing Umrah Viewing the project in Makkah called "Assalam Alik Ayoha Annabi" (PBUH) Touring King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah Visiting Kaust's "Museum of Science & Technology in Islam." Participating in a variety of educational & entertaining programs All KKU students are eligible to join the English Club and are cordially invited to find out more about the Club and participate in the Club’s activities.  Date: Spring 2015 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation Multimedia Contribution: English Club

On Monday, April 13, 2015, the Faculty of Languages and Translation at King Khalid University had the honor of hosting a distinguished delegation from the University of Malta. This illustrious visit was marked by interactions between the Maltese dignitaries and notable figures from King Khalid University including Dr. Abdullah Al-Melhi, Dean, Dr. Ahmed Ismail Assiri, Vice Dean, Dr. Abdulkhaleq Al Qahtani, Vice Dean of Academic Development & Quality, Dr. Ali Alamir, Chair of the English Department, and Dr. Ahmed Al Faifi, Chair of the MA in Translation Program. Together, they embarked on an insightful tour of various academic facilities. These included the advanced FLT Listening Labs, the dedicated FLT Language Enhancement Program, and the innovative hub at the Deanship of E-Learning. The tour provided a platform for showcasing the high standard of educational resources and commitment to quality learning at King Khalid University. Dr. Abdullah Al-Melhi voiced his earnest intention to cultivate a fruitful relationship between King Khalid University and the University of Malta that would benefit both institutions. This sentiment was warmly reciprocated by Professor Juanito Camilleri, Rector of the University of Malta, who emphasized the University's eagerness to build robust ties with King Khalid University across all areas of academia. Furthermore, the visiting delegation from the University of Malta showcased a series of presentations elucidating the wide spectrum of services, capabilities, and achievements that their University boasts. The audience consisted of faculty members from both the male and female campuses at King Khalid University, as well as students from varying academic levels. The event was broadened through a live telecast that allowed numerous satellite campuses of King Khalid University to participate actively. The visit concluded with the Maltese delegation expressing gratitude for the hospitality they received and reinforcing their belief that this visit has laid a strong foundation for a deepening relationship between the University of Malta and King Khalid University. Date: 04/14/2015 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation Multimedia Contribution: MD Sirajul Islam

Abdullah Omar, FLT graduate, and an ongoing student in the MA program in Applied Linguistics was recently awarded a Certificate of excellent achievement in English and First Class Honors. Abdullah received the Certificate during a University ceremony that honored students from the many different fields of academic specialization in both the undergraduate and graduate programs. The Certificate was presented to Abdullah by His Royal Highness (HRH) Prince Faisal Bin Khalid Bin Abdulaziz, the Governor of Asir Region. Abdullah had the exclusive chance of meeting HRH, and receiving congratulations for his academic achievement. He also had the honor of receiving congratulations from the President of the University, Professor Abdulrahman Bin Hamad Al Dawood. Abdullah expressed gratitude to all of his teachers and friends, and especially to his mother, for their constant support and encouragement. He wished the best of luck to all students in the English Department, reminding them of how steady, focused work and commitment are the keys to achieving their goals. Date: Spring 2015 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

The Language Research Center hosted an insightful presentation on, “Lexical Non-Equivalence in Translation.” The presenter, Dr. Eyhab Abdulrazak Bader Eddin, led us through a series of theoretical settings, critical analyses, lexical incongruence patterns, and referential meaning perspectives. The primary aim of his seminar was to illustrate concrete examples that there is no exact equivalence of meaning between the words of different varieties of languages. He referenced Leonard Bloomfield’s famous quote, ‘If the forms (of words) are phonemically different, we suppose that their meanings are also different.' Four key translation problems arising from lexical incongruence were addressed by Dr. Eyhab during the seminar to include but not limited to: 1.       Terms that are ONLY partially equivalent 2.       Terms with the same referential meaning but different stylistic value 3.       Terms with the same referential meaning but different connotation 4.       Terms with the same referential meaning but different intensity You can view the presentation by clicking HERE. For more information, please email Dr. Eyhab Abdulrazak Bader Eddin at ealdeen@kku.edu.sa Date: Spring 2015 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation Multimedia Contribution: MD Sirajul Islam

Ibrahim Al-Hilali, FLT Alumnus, received recognition from the Governor of Mohaiyl, His Excellency, Muhammad Bin Sabra and the President for Social Development, Dr. Hamza Al Fathahi. Additionally, the KKU excellence award was presented to Ibrahim for his outstanding contributions by His Excellency, University President, Professor Abdulrahman Al-Dawood. Ibrahim established the Afkaruna Foundation which is formed by successful young people who meet to talk and engage life and societal issues. The foundation also shares success stories to inspire others. The Afkaruna Foundation received a 20,000 SAR donation from the Governor of Mohaiyl. Congratulations Ibrahim! We are proud of your achievement! For more information on how to get involved with the Afkaruna Foundation, please use the contact details below. Ibrahim Al-Hilali, Afkaruna Foundation President Call 053-250-8475 or Email Ibrahimalhlali@gmail.com Date: Spring 2015  Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

The Language Research Center hosted a lively seminar conducted by Lecturers Mr. Eisa Al-Eisa and Mr. Ibrahim Alasmri. Please click the links below for the themes of the discussion. Code of Ethics in Translation – Eisa Al-Eisa, Lecturer Cohesion of Translated Language – Ibrahim Alasmri, Lecturer Date: Spring 2015 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation

The Language Research Center hosted a lively presentation on, “Rethinking Main Objectives for Teach English.” The presenter, Dr. Abdelhamid Bessaid, led us through a series of critical strategies, viewpoints, and pedagogical theories. The primary aim of his seminar was to compare the particular linguistic practices into which learners are socialized outside their schools with the practice they encountered inside their institutions. He related that language is “par excellence” and that the paramount question under debate is what are the kinds of approaches to meet the new challenges? Varying questions were addressed by Dr. Bessaid during the seminar to include but not limited to: What do non-native students/learners need to do with English? Which of the skills do they need to master and how well? For more information, please email Dr. Abdelhamid Bessaid at amabsaeed@kku.edu.sa Date: Spring 2015 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation Multimedia Contribution: MD Sirajul Islam

On February 25, 2015, the Literature Club organized a talk, first of its kind, titled Fable: Story with a moral. The discussion was presided over by the club coordinator, Md. Shahrear  Talukder.  Mr. Erich Beer, Lecturer, Department of English, gave the speech. In his enthralling 30 minutes presentation, he opened a new window to look at stories, in particular, fables from continents. Mr. Erich’s content of the talk was lucid and succinct enough to cause awe among the young students of the department. Though brief, this discussion encouraged students who are planning to choose literature as their major in future.      Date: Spring 2015 Source: Md. Shahrear Talukder

The English Club in coordination with the Deanship of Student Affairs hosted a workshop titled “How to Improve Your English Communication Skills.” The event occurred on February 18, 2015, in Auditorium 6. It was a lively event that drew a crowd of nearly 500.  Hassan Costello, language instructor, covered different topic areas to include: Intrapersonal Communication Interpersonal Communication Small Group Communication Public Communication Costello: Practice will build your accuracy. Accuracy will build your confidence. Confidence will build your fluency. Be patient and make many mistakes. Those mistakes are incredibly valuable learning opportunities! Certificates will be distributed to all workshop attendees in the coming weeks. A vote of thanks goes to Dean Abdullah Al-Melhi for facilitating this event. In addition to all members of the English Club, further recognition goes to the following for making this event a success: Ibrahim Al-Asmari, director of student affairs Abdullah Al-Ahmari, student activities president Yusef Al-Shahrani, professional photographer Saeed Al-Ahmari, professional photographer Date: Spring 2015 Source: Faculty of Languages and Translation