DUBAI // More than 500 education experts are due to attend a conference about improving the teaching of Arabic and English.
They are expected to share information and learn about how to use the Common Framework of Reference for Languages, a set of language-learning and assessment standards created by Cambridge English Language Assessment.
The organisation, part of Cambridge University in the UK, provides qualifications for English students and instructors.
The event, on Sunday, comes soon after a report commissioned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, suggested young Emiratis were increasingly using English rather than Arabic.
The report recommended the use of modern textbooks and a more interactive approach to the teaching of Arabic.
Delegates at the conference, which will be held at the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), are expected to look at ways to structure the curriculum and education policy at local and national levels.
Dr Tayeb Kamali, the vice chancellor of HCT, said the conference would “demonstrate that the UAE values continuous improvement in teaching and learning, as well as a solid commitment to student learning and to the excellent preparation of graduates for the workforce”.
This is the second conference organised by HCT and Cambridge English Language Assessment. The first was in October 2011.
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THE BIO
Ambition: To create awareness among young about people with disabilities and make the world a more inclusive place
Job Title: Human resources administrator, Expo 2020 Dubai
First jobs: Co-ordinator with Magrudy Enterprises; HR coordinator at Jumeirah Group
Entrepreneur: Started his own graphic design business
Favourite singer: Avril Lavigne
Favourite travel destination: Germany and Saudi Arabia
Family: Six sisters
Formula Middle East Calendar (Formula Regional and Formula 4)
Round 1: January 17-19, Yas Marina Circuit – Abu Dhabi
Round 2: January 22-23, Yas Marina Circuit – Abu Dhabi
Round 3: February 7-9, Dubai Autodrome – Dubai
Round 4: February 14-16, Yas Marina Circuit – Abu Dhabi
Round 5: February 25-27, Jeddah Corniche Circuit – Saudi Arabia
Defined benefit and defined contribution schemes explained
Defined Benefit Plan (DB)
A defined benefit plan is where the benefit is defined by a formula, typically length of service to and salary at date of leaving.
Defined Contribution Plan (DC)
A defined contribution plan is where the benefit depends on the amount of money put into the plan for an employee, and how much investment return is earned on those contributions.
The specs
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The five pillars of Islam
1. Fasting
2. Prayer
3. Hajj
4. Shahada
5. Zakat
Dr Afridi's warning signs of digital addiction
Spending an excessive amount of time on the phone.
Neglecting personal, social, or academic responsibilities.
Losing interest in other activities or hobbies that were once enjoyed.
Having withdrawal symptoms like feeling anxious, restless, or upset when the technology is not available.
Experiencing sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns.
What are the guidelines?
Under 18 months: Avoid screen time altogether, except for video chatting with family.
Aged 18-24 months: If screens are introduced, it should be high-quality content watched with a caregiver to help the child understand what they are seeing.
Aged 2-5 years: Limit to one-hour per day of high-quality programming, with co-viewing whenever possible.
Aged 6-12 years: Set consistent limits on screen time to ensure it does not interfere with sleep, physical activity, or social interactions.
Teenagers: Encourage a balanced approach – screens should not replace sleep, exercise, or face-to-face socialisation.
Source: American Paediatric Association
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Mohammed bin Zayed Majlis