The University of Duhok hosted the highly anticipated Interculturality and New Trends in Teaching-Learning English as a Foreign Language symposium on November 25, 2024. The hybrid event, organized by TESOL Kurdistan, brought together international experts to discuss innovative approaches in English language education and interculturality. Keynote speakers, including Dr. Jaffer Sheyholislami and Dr. Debra Suarez, shared their insights on embracing multilingualism and teacher leadership in global education.
Keynote Speakers Address Language Education Trends
The symposium kicked off with a series of engaging keynote speeches by renowned educators. Dr. Jaffer Sheyholislami, from Carleton University, emphasized the importance of moving beyond monolingual ideologies to embrace multilingualism in English language education. He highlighted how diverse linguistic backgrounds enrich classroom dynamics and foster a global perspective.
Dr. Debra Suarez, President of TESOL International Association, delivered an insightful talk on the role of teacher leaders. She stressed the need for educators to broaden their influence beyond the classroom, advocating for global educator roles that extend into wider educational communities. Her perspective resonated with the attendees, urging them to take leadership roles in the evolving educational landscape.
Dr. Phil Goertzen, Provost for Pinnacle Teaching Solutions, USA, presented on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in English language teaching. He explored how AI tools can maximize teaching efficiency, offering solutions for common pitfalls and equipping students with cutting-edge learning resources.
Panel Discussion Focuses on Interculturality
In the afternoon, a thought-provoking panel discussion on Embracing Interculturality in EFL Classrooms took center stage. Moderated by Dr. Zana Ismail Ibrahim, Dean of Social Sciences at the American University of Iraq, Sulaimani, the panel included distinguished scholars such as Dr. Himdad A. Muhammad, Dr. Mohammed Hussein Ahmed, and Dr. Gretchen Nauman. The panelists discussed the integration of cultural inclusion, digital storytelling, and cross-cultural communication in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms.
The discussion provided practical insights into how educators can foster intercultural understanding, navigate digital storytelling platforms, and enhance communication skills across cultures. The session was interactive, with attendees actively engaging with the speakers, exchanging ideas on applying these concepts in their own classrooms.
Networking and Future Prospects in EFL Education
The event also featured networking opportunities, including an interactive poster station where attendees could engage with various research projects. Scholars such as Dr. Tara I. A. Alswary and Mr. Kochar Ali Saaed presented innovative work from the University of Duhok and Komar University, sparking dialogue on emerging trends in English language education in the Kurdistan region.
As the symposium concluded, participants reflected on the transformative discussions and valuable insights shared by international experts. The event not only highlighted the significance of interculturality in language teaching but also underscored the importance of staying abreast of new trends and technologies in the field. With a strong focus on global collaboration and inclusive education, TESOL Kurdistan continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of English language teaching in the region.
