About
M.A. in Arabic Studies: Teaching Arabic as a Foreign Language
Studying geography and sociology in my Bachelor's degree created a desire to connect environment and people to find the best match where they both can coexist in balance. Continuing my graduate degree in geography allowed me to further explore nature and its impact on people and landforms. My thesis was in Volcanic landforms in the Safawi area in the Northern Badia of Jordan. During the research period, as I was examining and surveying the volcanic landforms in the desert, I was fortunate to experience the beduin lifestyle up close in the desert, and see how they can survive the hardship of nature in both winter and summer.
During my Master's degree, I also assisted faculty members in research related to tourism in Jordan. The country of Jordan has several untapped tourists sites and historical locations that go back more than three thousand years, such as Petra and Jerash. Improving the tourism sector has been the major focus of the research.
I have also developed a strong interest in teaching Arabic as a foreign language, which led me to establish the Middle East Learning and Cultural Center and to teaching Arabic at Drake University in Iowa. My passion to teach Arabic has given me a mission to connect people and cultures together using language education and cultural learning. I have always believed that understanding each other is the best way for people to live in peace.
Research Interests:
- Teaching Arabic as a Foreign Language
- Environmental research that mitigates the impact of human activities on our planet.
- Cultural and political research that narrows the gaps between peoples and cultures for better understanding.
- Educational theories and improving educational achievement especially in developing countries.
