ALA increases its linguistic development efforts in Lebanon

The event, organised in partnership with the Arabic Language Academy in Lebanon, the Cultural Association in Tripoli, and the "Mubdiun" Association, drew academics, experts, and language enthusiasts.
 
The workshop began with a trial exam to examine participants' linguistic proficiency, which was based on stringent linguistic criteria designed to measure comprehension and language production skills in both learners and specialists. 

Dr Mahmoud Darniqa moderated the discussion, which featured key speakers such as Dr Imad Ghoum, Vice President of the "Mubdiun" Association, and Dr Sarah Daher, President of the Arabic Language Academy in Lebanon.
 
In his presentation titled "The Importance of Linguistic Proficiency Tests and Their Role in Advancement and Development," Dr Imad Ghannoum emphasized that proficiency tests are more than just a tool for assessing language skills; they are also a foundational element in developing personal and professional abilities within societies. He emphasised that strengthening Arabic language skills, particularly among young people, improves their career opportunities and adds to social and economic growth.
 
Ghannoum noted that language is more than just a method of communication; it also carries culture, values, and identity. He stated that these assessments assist in bridging the age divide among students and offer educational institutions scientific backing to build curricula that meet current needs.

Dr Sarah Daher gave a talk titled "Proficiency Testing: Design, Structure, and Linguistic Measurement," in which she highlighted the ideas that underpin the test design. She verified that the examination is based on worldwide linguistic norms comparable to those used in foreign language tests like English and French. Daher noted that the test assesses all essential language abilities (reading, writing, listening, and speaking), making it a comprehensive and accurate instrument for determining learners' competence levels.
 
She noted that the test's goal is not just to measure learners' levels but also to discover their strengths and shortcomings, which can help steer and improve educational programs. Daher indicated that this type of assessment could be a useful tool for academic and governmental institutions in developing language policies that encourage the use of Standard Arabic in everyday life.
 
Participants contributed to the workshop, which focused on the importance of designing and increasing Arabic proficiency examinations in educational and professional settings. Attendees expressed interest in the presenters' ideas and agreed on the importance of developing more methods for scientifically measuring linguistic skill.
 
At the end of the workshop, participants in the trial exam received certificates, and the test results as well as the workshop's final recommendations were announced. The participants expressed gratitude to the Sharjah Arabic Language Academy and the organizers for their efforts to promote and highlight the Arabic language's importance in society.