Call for Papers: Arabic Language Teaching & Learning in UK Higher Education Tuesday 28 March 2017
Call for Papers: Arabic Language Teaching & Learning in UK Higher Education Tuesday 28 March 2017
Abstract submission deadline: 09 December 2016
Call for Papers
The purpose of the conference is to bring together academics and language teachers working in UK Universities to discuss the nature and challenges presently faced in the field. This is in the context of a recent rapid growth of demand for Arabic language learning, in particular across University Wide Language Programmes. There are now (in 2016) almost 60 UK Universities teaching Arabic language, including 12 who offer degree programmes (single or joint honours, undergraduate or postgraduate) in Arabic Studies. The Conference intends to:
a) Provide a forum for all teachers of Arabic in Higher Education in the UK to come together, and to act as a catalyst for collaboration across all institutions
b) To support the closer integration of the teaching & learning of Arabic with the teaching & learning of other languages in UKHE
c) To provide a forum for development of collaborative ideas amongst participants, leading to collaborative projects through external funding
The conference will include two external keynote speakers, and will close with a panel discussion. There will also be parallel sessions to receive presentations on topics of principal interest, a small exhibition and a space for posters. The focus will be towards Arabic teaching and learning in UK universities, submissions from outside the UK will be accepted. We now invite abstract submissions and/or posters that relate to the following sub-themes:
a. Pedagogical Approaches to Arabic Diglossia and Language Variation: This may include research findings, presentations on the integrated approach and the questions of MSA versus Dialect.
b. Arabic Language Resources, Technology and Innovation: This would allow discussions on textbooks and technology T&L resources.
c. Approaches to Assessment and Proficiency Level Bench-marking: This can include discussions on proficiency scales for Arabic language, assessment of the different language skills and the different Arabic varieties and the use of innovative approaches to assessment.
d. Arabic Students and Teachers Aspirations: This can include learning motivations as well as opportunities for teacher training and professional development.
Confirmed Plenary Speakers
Zeinab A. Taha, American University in Cairo
Munther A. Younes, Cornell University
Abstract Submission
Papers are allotted thirty-minute slots followed by 10 minutes of discussion. Please submit your abstract (In English, 250 words maximum) to ArabicConference@leeds.ac.uk, by 09 December 2016. A scientific committee will review the abstracts and acceptance will be confirmed by 13 January 2017.
Key Dates:
Abstract submission deadline: 09 December 2016
Notification of acceptance: 13 January 2017
Registration opens: 16 January 2017
Registration deadline: 13th March 2017
For more information, please contact ArabicConference@leeds.ac.uk
