Registration is now open for a variety of evening language classes offered by the Language Center of Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s Translation and Interpreting Institute (TII). The 40-hour programmes, which provide instruction in Arabic, Chinese, French and Spanish, are spread across 13 weeks and are delivered two evenings per week – either on Sundays and Tuesdays or on Mondays and Wednesdays – at TII’s facilities within Education City.

New classes for the autumn season start on 27 September and run through to 16 December 2015.

Since its establishment in 2012, TII has offered language courses at a variety of proficiency levels. New students other than those at the beginner level are offered a free placement test, either at the institute or online, in order to establish their proficiency level. In all courses, the textbook study is complemented with audio and visual resources, engaging classroom discussion, and an emphasis on social exchange and conversation. All language classes balance reading, writing, listening, and speaking in the target language. Arabic courses in particular highlight the importance of understanding key aspects of Arabic culture and developing confidence in speaking with native speakers.

All students are offered access to the Translation and Interpreting Institute’s library, where a number of electronic and print resources are available to complement the study. Course expectations and workload differs based on language and level. Group projects and class social gatherings offer students the opportunity to get to know their peers by collaborating with and supporting one another.

Maryam Al-Semaitt, a student of Spanish at TII’s Language Center commented: “Studying at TII has allowed me to learn more about the Spanish language and culture with a group of multicultural students. I like that our teacher builds the confidence of students, encourages our participation in the classroom, and ensures that we are all provided with equal learning opportunities.”

Mounir Ouanaimi, Director of TII’s Language Center, observed: “I’ve seen TII’s language offerings grow over the years, not only in the number of languages, but also in enrolment numbers. The Language Center’s emphasis on building real-life communicative skills and preparing students for situational and interactive conversations differentiates it from other language instruction programmes and helps build learners’ confidence in speaking in a new language, both in and out of the classroom.

“This year, the Institute is especially pleased to have expanded our offerings, with additional proficiency levels available for those who wish to further their study of Arabic, French, Spanish, and Chinese.”

Due to space restrictions, those interested in enrolling in a class are encouraged to register early, with registration closing on 17 September. More information may be found at www.tii.qa/language-center.