QFI Podcast: All Things Arabic
Join us as we dive into the vibrant world of Arabic language education, sharing resources, interviews with experts, success stories, and discussions of hot topics in the field. Get ready to be inspired, equipped, and connected in your journey as an Arabic language enthusiast. Hosted by Caroline Sibley, teaching assistant professor of Arabic at UNC Chapel Hill, and produced by QFI, an organization committed to advancing the value of teaching and learning Arabic as a global language.
QFI Podcast: All Things Arabic
Motivating Arabic Learners: Strategies from Alumni and Educators
The third episode of Season Two of QFI’s podcast, All Things Arabic, is titled "Motivating Arabic Learners: Strategies from Alumni and Educators."
Hosted by Caroline Sibley, Teaching Assistant Professor of Arabic in North Carolina, this episode features Dana Slayton, an Arabic language educator in Texas, and Najoua Ben Ramak, an English and Arabic language educator in North Carolina. Dana was a student and has now become an educator, making this episode an exciting dialogue between her and Najoua. Drawing from their experiences, the guests emphasize student motivation as one of the core pillars of the Arabic language education ecosystem, essential for engagement, achievement, and meaningful learning. Through initiatives like this podcast, QFI highlights motivation, fosters dialogue among educators, and shares knowledge across the Arabic education community.
The discussion explores common challenges, including demotivation, overwhelmed beginners, and limited connection to the language. Educators can address these challenges by building community, focusing on practical, transferable skills, and integrating tools such as gamification, project-based learning, and pop culture to make learning Arabic more engaging.
The conversation demonstrates how prioritizing motivation enables learners to overcome challenges and experience the joy and real-world relevance of learning Arabic—underscoring its role as a driving force in the Arabic education ecosystem.
Produced by QFI to advance the value of teaching and learning Arabic as a global language.
Contact information
We welcome comments or suggestions. Contact us at communications@qfi.org.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Qatar Foundation International (QFI).
Follow us on: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
