Utilising a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach, the current case study investigates the characteristics and frequency of the usage of verbal humour that positively or negatively affects the Saudi English as a Foreign Language (EFL) tertiary-level students across two different English language proficiency levels. The participants included 42 EFL teachers and 138 male EFL students from the English Language Institute (ELI) in King Abdulaziz University. The students were enrolled in the beginners (E101) and intermediate (E104) English language proficiency levels. The mixed-methods approach was implemented using audio and video recordings and a questionnaire as the data collection instruments. The findings stated the four main characteristics of both positive and negative verbal humours in Saudi EFL classrooms. These findings revealed that humour was more frequently used at the intermediate than at the beginner level, and that the most effective forms of humour at both levels involved language play, irony, jokes, and self-defeating humour. Suggestions, recommendations, pedagogical implications have also been presented.
In the field of computer science, specific English language skills are needed to facilitate the students' academic progress. Needs analysis is generally believed to be an important element in ESP/EAP context because it enables the practitioners and curriculum designers determine the learners' needs in a particular academic context. In this regard, this paper, adopting a quantitative research design, reports on a survey conducted to investigate the English language needs of the female students studying in the Faculty of Computing and Information Technology (FCIT) at King Abdulaziz University (KAU). The study aims at identifying the students' perceptions about the importance of the English language skills, the frequency of using those skills, their ability levels in performing such skills, and their preferences regarding the English language course. The participants in this study are 135 female undergraduates who are studying at the third, fourth, and fifth year at the FCIT, during the academic year 2013-2014. The study identifies the students' English language necessities, lacks, wants, and their perceptions of the current English course. The paper concludes with several pedagogical implications which seek to improve the current course structure and contents so as to cater for the students' academic English language needs.
The Fourth Industrial Revolution, with the emergence of educational technologies and digital innovations, makes it essential for the Higher Education sector to review the teaching-learning practices to reshape the futuristic plans for 21st Century learners. English language education has been focused in regions, where the language-learning environment and procedures are transforming with the bend of new technological intrusions and AI intervention. Therefore; the present study aims to investigate the future of EFL Teaching and Learning given the 4IR in the MENA Region. The study is significant as it probes the teaching-learning strategies and examines the readiness of teachers, learners, and the learning environment. The study’s main question is, ‘To what extent is the learning environment concerning English language teaching and learning at universities in the MENA Region ready to cope with the 4IR demands?’ A survey, with 39 items under four sub-divisions, and a fully-structured interview were used. A total of 70 EL teachers participated from universities in the MENA and its neighboring regions. Linear Regression and Thematic analysis of the data show quantitative and qualitative results, respectively. Findings reveal an evident level of readiness in teachers. Results show that Teachers’ awareness seems to impact their tendency toward integrating educational technologies. The findings suggest careful curriculum revision because the resources are often reported as outdated. Since the role of EFL in the MENA is to prepare learners for 4IR socio-economic systems and their diversified challenges, the study recommends a thorough review to upgrade the teaching-learning resources, materials, and procedures.
Utilising a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach, the current case study investigates the characteristics and frequency of the usage of verbal humour that positively or negatively affects the Saudi English as a Foreign Language (EFL) tertiary-level students across two different English language proficiency levels. The participants included 42 EFL teachers and 138 male EFL students from the English Language Institute (ELI) in King Abdulaziz University. The students were enrolled in the beginners (E101) and intermediate (E104) English language proficiency levels. The mixed-methods approach was implemented using audio and video recordings and a questionnaire as the data collection instruments. The findings stated the four main characteristics of both positive and negative verbal humours in Saudi EFL classrooms. These findings revealed that humour was more frequently used at the intermediate than at the beginner level, and that the most effective forms of humour at both levels involved language play, irony, jokes, and self-defeating humour. Suggestions, recommendations, pedagogical implications have also been presented.
Utilising a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach, the current case study investigates the characteristics and frequency of the usage of verbal humour that positively or negatively affects the Saudi English as a Foreign Language (EFL) tertiary-level students across two different English language proficiency levels. The participants included 42 EFL teachers and 138 male EFL students from the English Language Institute (ELI) in King Abdulaziz University. The students were enrolled in the beginners (E101) and intermediate (E104) English language proficiency levels. The mixed-methods approach was implemented using audio and video recordings and a questionnaire as the data collection instruments. The findings stated the four main characteristics of both positive and negative verbal humours in Saudi EFL classrooms. These findings revealed that humour was more frequently used at the intermediate than at the beginner level, and that the most effective forms of humour at both levels involved language play, irony, jokes, and self-defeating humour. Suggestions, recommendations, pedagogical implications have also been presented.
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