Persian Language Online - Obstacles and Opportunities

In 2013, the Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies (CAIS) began an ambitious project to teach Persian and Arabic online. The first course offering was Introductory Persian A in Semester 1, 2014; Introductory Persian B and an advanced course in Media Arabic followed in Semester 2, 2014.
Digital learning, whether online, offline, or a blend, has become a major debate for universities worldwide and challenged the traditional model of university instruction.
The online learning trend presents complex and specific problems as well as opportunities in the field of language teaching. In offering Persian online we have grappled with these issues but also found opportunities for creating a wide-ranging and intensive language learning experience to enhance language acquisition, in this case Persian. We also provide an intensive linguistic program which is culturally grounded and academically rigorous; all online.
What have been the lessons and challenges of the first offering of Persian online - technologies; student demographics; time, budget, and skill constraints? What was the model adopted and why? How can technology simplify, create and deepen the language learning experience and instill cultural appreciation and affection at the same time as developing verifiable linguistic knowledge and skill? What was the student experience and how did students perform?
We look forward to having a vigorous discussion with all in attendance following the presentation and sharing our experience so far in the Persian Language Online Project.

This forum is jointly coordinated by the College of Arts & Social Sciences (the School of Literature, Languages & Linguistics and the Centre for Arab & Islamic Studies) and the College of Asia & the Pacific (the School of Culture, History & Language).

Date & time

Wed 06 Aug 2014, 4.15–5.15pm

Location

Al Falasi Theatre, CAIS, Building 127, Ellery crescent, ANU

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Updated:  5 August 2014/Responsible Officer:  Centre Director/Page Contact:  CASS Marketing & Communications