Saudi program to train teachers of Arabic as second language begins at US university
RIYADH: A new program is training teachers of Arabic as a second language at Indiana University in the US.
The course, initiated by the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, will run until April 8 and is the second phase of a project aimed at training teachers.
Dr. Abdullah Al-Washmi, the secretary-general of KSGAAL, said that the program was part of the academy's continued efforts to enhance the skills of Arabic language teachers and students.
KSGAAL is focused on improving teaching quality and introducing the standardized language assessment Hamza, Al-Washmi added.
He said that through its collaboration with Indiana University, KSGAAL was committed to academic exchange and the integration of global best practices in Arabic language teaching.
The secretary-general added that the Hamza test enhanced the global and academic standing of the Arabic language by providing a standardized assessment model based on international criteria.
It offered a reliable measure of language proficiency, enabling universities and academic institutions worldwide to rely on it for student admissions and assessing abilities, he said.
Al-Washmi added: 'The test boosts scientific research in the field of Arabic language through the analytical data derived from its results, which contribute to the development of more effective teaching curricula.
'The test facilitates international recognition of Arabic as a global language that can be measured according to CEFR standards, further promoting its inclusion in global academic and employment frameworks.'
The academy's plan for Arabic language assessments is based on several key pillars, including legislation and accreditation to ensure official recognition and reliability, as well as outreach and sustainability to expand the test's accessibility to the widest possible audience.
Al-Washmi said: 'We are committed to innovation and development to improve assessment mechanisms and enhance the test-taker experience.'
The language assessment program at KSGAAL was advancing according to the established strategy, Al-Washmi said, positioning Saudi Arabia, through the academy, as an international reference in Arabic language teaching, learning, and evaluation practices.
The program at Indiana University includes an introductory module on language assessments and the Hamza test, alongside a specialized training course for Arabic teachers of non-native speakers.
The program features a scientific seminar called 'Saudi Arabia's Efforts in Teaching Arabic to Non-Native Speakers.' Participants will also engage in a hands-on session of the Hamza test, designed to deepen their understanding of language assessment mechanisms and their role in evaluating learners' language proficiency.
This initiative is aligned with KSGAAL's strategy to empower the Arabic language and enhance its presence in international academic institutions.
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