Inauguration of the First English Language Conference
05 December 2009
Inaugurated yesterday, 5th of December 2009, was the first English language Conference in the Faculty of Arts at An Najah National University titled "New Prospects, New Challenges" at the Martyr Zafer Al Masri Auditorium. The conference was held in cooperation with the U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem and under the patronage of several Palestinian companies.
The conference was attended by An Najah National University President, Prof. Rami Hamdallah, a delegation of the U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem, in addition to a number of faculties' deans, professors from the English Department and the Language Center at the University. Dr. Maher Fatash, coordinator of the conference delivered a speech in which he thanked the organizers and the supporters of the conference. Prof. Hamdallah delivered his speech in which he pointed out to the role that the Language Center plays in teaching different languages, particularly English, as well as its role in developing the linguistic skills of students. He also emphasized the importance of English in the lives of people today and how to develop the teaching of this language to meet the needs of the society.
Mr. Rick Rosenberg, Regional English Language Officerin the United States Embassy in Jordan, talked about English Language teaching in different countries in addition to other topics such as teaching English for different ages, the various techniques used in teaching English, e-learning, critical thinking, interactive learning, and the role of internet in learning English. Dr. Graham Stott from the Arab-American University in Jenin discussed the importance of Information Technology in learning, exams and instruction.
Other English language professors such as Dr. Sameer Al-Eesa and Dr.Ahmed Awad from the English Department, and Dr. Kevin MacKoy, an English language instructor in Jordan, also discussed several topics including: developing English language programs, supporting e-learning, practical training of students, class management, designing educational materials and many others. In conclusion, the conference recommended the reinforcement of efforts to enhance teaching English in schools and universities.
