On October 5, 2024, Cihan University of Sulaimaniyah hosted an enlightening international workshop conducted via Google Meet, the event brought together educators and students to explore the vital intersection of language learning and literary studies.
The workshop featured distinguished speakers who shared their insights on leveraging literature to enhance language acquisition and cultural understanding. Dr. Mokhalad Malik kicked off the session with a compelling presentation on developing skills and competence through literary texts, emphasizing how stories and many literary terms can foster language development in diverse learners.
Dr. Batoul Hassan Khoja, the Special Cases Department Coordinator at Mar Qardakh International School and English Language Instructor at Catholic University in Erbil, focused on the importance of understanding culture through literature. Her discussion underscored how literature serves as a bridge to cross-cultural competence, enriching students’ perspectives and empathy.
Asst. Lect. Tafan Kamal Kareem highlighted the role of literature as a pedagogical tool, engaging learners through narratives and expressions that captivate and inspire. Her insights emphasized the potential of storytelling to create meaningful learning experiences in English language classrooms.
The workshop was facilitated by Asst. Lect. Shaimaa Muhammed Mahmood, who guided discussions and fostered interaction among participants.
The Workshop not only reinforced the significance of integrating literature into language acquisition strategies but also promoted a collaborative environment for educators to share effective teaching practices. By bridging the gap between language and literature, the event underscored the essential role of storytelling in cultivating linguistic skills and cultural awareness in students.
