A series of recommendations, which called for the development of teaching methods to address modern linguistic challenges faced by children, were presented yesterday at the closing ceremony of the second Renaissance of Arabic Language Forum, held in Doha.
Organised by the World Organisation for Renaissance of Arabic Language (WORAL), the forum, which took place at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), was held under the theme of ‘Linguistic Upbringing of The Arab Child - The Reality and Prospects for the Future’. Through the event, WORAL supports QF’s mission to foster a progressive society which is proud of its culture and linguistic traditions.
The forum discussed many suggestions and studies which were presented by an elite group of academics. These recommendations included: Publishing an updated basic vocabulary for elementary pupils; establishing partnerships with an increased number of centres and institutions concerned with the Arabic language; a new strategic curricula incorporating modern technology; enhancing teaching standards and skills; engaging Arabic families and outlining their role in the transfer of linguistic knowledge; supporting media production which targets children through the Arabic language; and creating a ‘Pictionary’ which reinforces language through visual cues.
Commenting on the conclusion of the event, Dr Ali al-Kubaisi, Director General of WORAL, said: “The challenges facing the Arabic language oblige us all to analyse and study the current linguistic climate to find the best solutions. It is a logical step to start with children, who will transfer this knowledge to many more generations to come.
“On the final day of the event, a committee of educational experts and linguistic professionals proposed solutions to support the upbringing of the Arabic child, which I’m certain will pave the road for a bright future, worthy of the Arabic language’s glorious history, and in line with its current ambitions.”
The forum brought together more than 300 prominent figures from the education field to contribute to discussions which included themes such as: ‘Realities of the Arab Child’s Linguistic Upbringing’, ‘The Effects of Children’s Exposure to Current Arabic Media Content’, and ‘Alternatives to Develop the Arab Child’s Linguistic Future’.
Through four interactive workshops, ‘The Development of Arabic Language Skills for Children’, ‘Creative Writing for Children’, ‘Children’s Programmes on Radio and Television’, and ‘Modern Techniques to Enhance Children’s Use of the Arabic Language’, the forum engaged with participants to find solutions for the replacement of formal Arabic with its colloquial usage.
The Arabic language is facing multiple challenges, accelerated by technological developments and issues of globalisation, including the popularisation of international linguistic trends stemming from social media. This has led to cultural dilution which threatens ‘Modern Standard Arabic’, otherwise known as ‘Fus’ha’. WORAL was established in 2013 to address these concerns.
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