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Dec 19, 2024
In celebration of World Arabic Language Day on December 18th, QFI launched a special episode of QFI’s All Things Arabic! podcast titled Teaching Arabic in a Changing World: Perspectives from Educators, this episode is hosted by Caroline Sibley, Teaching Assistant Professor of Arabic at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and features a dynamic conversation with educators Layali Eshqaidef and Alexander Porcelli.
Together, they explore the evolving landscape of Arabic language education, discussing innovative approaches to engage students across primary, secondary, and university levels, foster community connections through immersive learning, and address critical challenges such as teacher training gaps, curriculum development, and misconceptions about Arabic.
The podcast, led by educators for educators, serves to address critical challenges, spark innovative ideas, and foster thought leadership—all in support of advancing Arabic education globally, a mission proudly supported by QFI.
Listen now, wherever you get your podcasts:
Caroline Sibley is a Teaching Assistant Professor of Arabic at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She previously worked as an Arabic Immersion Teacher at the Arabic Immersion Magnet School in Texas, as a Language Director for Middlebury Interactive Languages in Vermont, and as an Arabic Interpreter at The Center for New North Carolinians. She received her bachelor's degree in Arabic Language and Cultures at the University of North Carolina and her master's degree in teaching Arabic as a Foreign Language at the University of Michigan.
Layali Eshqaidef is the Founder and President of Kalimah Programs for Arabic Culture and Arts (KalimahPrograms.org). She is passionate about spreading the love for Arabic among diverse audiences of all ages globally and has been teaching Arabic for over twenty years in schools and colleges. She has designed and directed various integrated, play-based lessons, units, and programs, including Kalimah's Arabic immersion STEAM summer camps in Maryland. As an Arabic Education Consultant, she has developed a multi-layer language program evaluation process that helps schools and organizations make the shift to interactive, hands-on, fun learning. She believes in empowering students to find their voice and exercise their agency as they develop skills to become lifelong learners and responsible global citizens.
Alexander Porcelli is an Arabic Instructor, Director of International Programs, and World Languages Chair at the Washington Latin Public Charter School. He also serves as Site Lead for the NYU Teacher Residency and oversees teacher training. He previously served as Pedagogical Expert at the American Councils for International Education for the TCLP program, and as an Arabic Linguist and Arabic Tour Director for Capital Communications Group and as an Arabic Instructor for E.L. Haynes Public Charter School. He is a graduate of Georgetown University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in Arabic Language and Literature.
