‘Learning languages opens up your perspective of life’ - Wessam Semida on learning Arabic at the Academic Language Centre
Why would someone choose to learn a language like Arabic? For Wessam Semida, teacher at the Academic Language Centre (ATC), the answer goes far beyond grammar and vocabulary. 'It really opens your perspective on life,' she explains. 'Language is a key to understanding people, cultures, and different ways of thinking.'
A language that challenges and connects
Arabic is one of the languages that is not mainstream, while it is the fifth biggest language in the world, it is not a language most people encounter in secondary school, which Semida sees appealing. Arabic stands out because of its unique structure and writing system. ‘It is very different from what students are used to, which makes it challenging, but also very rewarding.’
With more than twenty counties using Arabic, an interesting complexity is introduced: the diversity of dialects. ‘Students are often surprised,’ Semida says. Students expect to learn Arabic and assume that all the other students would also speak Arabic, ‘Students realise that their Syrian friend is speaking Arabic differently from their Egyptian or Moroccan neighbour.’
At the ATC, this challenge is addressed by combining standard teachings with elements of spoken dialects. Being able to understand signs when travelling, or speaking with people from different Arab countries is the goal, ‘it is really important students feel how much they can be connected with people from different countries.’
Many motivations, one goal
The classroom brings together a diverse group of learners, each with their own reason for studying Arabic. Some students are motivated by personal connections. Semida says: ‘For example, they may want to connect with their heritage, some study for professional purposes, while others purely think the language is beautiful and want to learn how to write it.’
From inspiration to profession
Semida’s own path into language teaching began during her studies in Arabic language and literature. While at university, she encountered international students who had learned Arabic abroad before coming to Egypt. ‘It was impressive what they have done outisde Arab countries to learn the language.’ Seeing this during her bachelor’s made Semida realise she would like to start teaching foreigners Arabic.
‘Learning languages opens up your perspective of life’
Learning beyond the classroom
Semida thinks it is important to create opportunities for students to practice their language skills outside of the classroom, ‘Being in a classroom environment causes some students stress, as they feel they are being monitored.’ Getting away from this environment through conversation classes, or by visiting a cafe or restaurant would make the learning process fun for students.
More than just a skill
‘A language course opens up your perspective of life’ Semida says. Language learning can be used beyond the practical use to help you understand a country’s culture: ‘what may seem unusual or even strange in one culture can be completely normal in another.’ At the ATC, this cultural dimension is an essential part of the classes. In addition to textbooks, students work with songs, articles, and other materials that reflect everyday life in Arabic-speaking societies. ‘You are not just learning words, you are learning context, meaning, and culture.’
Give language learning a try
For those still in doubt, Semida has a simple piece of advice: start and try. ‘Especially with languages that feel unfamiliar, like Arabic, Korean, or Chinese, just try one or two courses.’ On top of the skills of acquiring a new language, following a language learning course also has cognitive benefits. Learning a new language keeps the brain active and engaged. ‘It is like training your mind,’ Semida adds. ‘It challenges the way you think.’
Click here to view the language courses offered by the ATC