Mays Ibrahim (ABU DHABI)
The American Community School of Abu Dhabi (ACS) Arabic Institute of Excellence aims to transform the way Arabic is taught and to expand its global presence through innovative teaching and learning approaches, Hanadi Dayyeh, Chair of Arabic Institute of Excellence told Aletihad in an interview.
Dayyeh’s remarks came during an interview with Aletihad on the sidelines of a ceremony held on Monday for the launch of the ACS Arabic Institute of Excellence at the American Community School of Abu Dhabi (ACS).
The institute brings together thought leaders from prestigious institutions such as the American University of Beirut, NYU Abu Dhabi, the American University of Cairo, US State Department Office of Overseas Schools, International Baccalaureate Organization, and the American University of Sharjah.
Dayyeh explained how the ACS Arabic Institute of Excellence supports the UAE's vision to elevate the Arabic language through implementing fun and engaging educational methods. The curriculum is built around relatable stories, activities, and content that align with the standards set by the Ministry of Education, she said. An example of that would involve teaching students how to write an email in Arabic to a friend visiting the UAE for the first time, providing them with a three-day itinerary.
Technology also plays an integral role in enhancing Arabic language education at the Arabic Institute of Excellence. An Arabic media specialist works alongside teachers to integrate robotics, digital thinking, and design into their lessons, according to Dayyeh. The institute aims to influence Arabic education beyond Abu Dhabi by serving as a resource-sharing forum for educators.
Dayyeh shared plans to hold annual conferences where teachers from across the Arab world can collaborate and learn. She noted that success for the institute will be measured in two ways. First, a positive shift in students' attitudes towards Arabic, particularly among non-native speakers who voluntarily choose to remain in the programme.
"If students express love for Arabic, that's our first indicator of success," Dayyeh said.
The second measure involves tracking student progress through online assessments. Dayyeh underscored the importance of Arabic education in shaping students' identities and experiences. For Arabic speakers, a strong foundation in their mother tongue is essential for learning other languages and understanding their culture. For non-Arabic speakers, learning the language offers an invaluable opportunity to connect with the host country's culture.
"Arabic is one of the top five languages spoken globally, and proficiency in it is increasingly valuable in today's competitive job market," she added.
Aletihad also spoke to Zeinab Taha, Chair of Applied Linguistics and Educational Studies Department at the American University in Cairo. Taha, who is a member of the Advisory Council for the ACS Arabic Institute of Excellence, noted that language plays a pivotal role in shaping one's nationality and personal identity.
Aside from equipping them with essential skills for international job markets, knowing their mother-tongue enables young learners to embrace multilingual and cultural diversity while also maintaining their connection to their heritage and national identity.