WELCOME FROM THE CONFERENCE CO-CHAIRS

Visit TESOL Arabia Online 2010

Dear Colleagues,

On behalf of the Committee of TESOL Arabia Conference and Exhibition 2010, we would like to take this opportunity to thank our conference participants of previous years for their continuing support and participation and to welcome prospective first-time conference participants to what is the premier conference of its type in the region. We would now like to invite you to peruse what we will have on offer in 2010.

The theme for this year’s conference is Transformations in TESOL. Change is one of the few constants in TESOL. It is a field that has always been in constant flux, as new theories and beliefs about learning, teaching and research emerge. Like all areas of education, it is also a transformative process, with the potential to change learners, teachers and institutions. Change is also being felt in the region, through English content instruction, and shifting expectations of English language teaching. The constant change in the field is not always linear, nor is it even always consistent. On one hand, teachers face the demands of professionalization and the expectations and perceptions accompanying them, while at the same time, others must deal with the threat of deskilling. Teachers are also taking on greater responsibilities such as continuing their studies in the field, and becoming teacher mentors or supervisors. The growing role played by non-native speaking teachers is also significant as these teachers seek to build upon assets and overcome unique challenges. The intention behind the current theme is to reflect on these and other changes we face, and to share how we are meeting them or how they are influencing our practice. Overall, the theme Transformations in TESOL invites participants to explore the ways in which educators respond to the dynamic nature of English language teaching and learning.

As always, we have a fantastic line up of plenary, featured and invited speakers ready to challenge you with fresh ideas and insights. On this website, you will find details of who those speakers are, as well as the key highlights to this year’s conference agenda.

For those who would like to contribute to the program, the Call for Papers is open for submissions until midnight on the 15th November 2009. Presentations and workshops may look back with new awareness at where we’ve been in the field; explore innovations in research, theory, technology and classroom practice; and consider challenges and changes educators and learners face, and how these can transform our ideas and practice.

Of course, change is not only limited to educational institutions. 2010 brings more changes to the TESOL Arabia International Conference, including a new venue. The conference will be held at Zayed University and Conference Centre, located in Academic City. We are delighted with the design of the space, the well appointed presentation rooms and the magnificent exhibition area. We hope that conference delegates enjoy the opportunity to make use of the excellent facilities the university has to offer.

Another new feature of the 2010 conference is the introduction of an online virtual initiative which offers more channels of interaction amongst conference delegate and/or organizers. Shortly before and during the conference, conference delegates will be able share their own profiles, take part in the TACON 2010 blogs and discussion forums. In addition, conference updates and announcements as well as a video archive of some key presentations will be available online for conference delegates.

In line with recent conferences, TESOL Arabia delegates will once again be offered the opportunity to participate in a selection of specialized professional development courses both before and during the conference. These specialized courses require payment of fees in addition to your main conference registration. As spaces on these courses are limited, you are advised to register for them early to avoid disappointment. Further information about the courses can be found in the relevant sections of the website.

For all book lovers and material writers, as well as those looking for the latest teaching aids or edition of their preferred texts, the TESOL Arabia Exhibition will once again host the major education publishers and distributors in addition to many tertiary institutions. In addition to the Exhibition, we plan to host the Innovative Material Showcase. This part of the conference gives publishers, distributors, and education establishments a chance to showcase their latest products in interactive presentations and workshops. The new Innovative Material Showcase, coupled with the Exhibition, provides delegates with great networking and learning opportunities.

The 2010 Conference will also continue to offer a comprehensive Job Fair, which will once again bring together job seekers and the major recruiting organisations in the region. Looking for qualified candidates to fill a variety of posts, including some positions that are filled onsite, the TESOL Arabia Job Fair retains its position as the premier employment opportunity for both recruiters and job seekers in the teaching profession. Please note job seekers must register for the Conference in order to attend the Job Fair.

Due to the incredible success of Dubai as an international tourist and conference destination, demand for hotel space is high. We have done our best to provide you with some options for your stay here in Dubai. Please feel free to make use of those listed on the conference website, and make hotel reservations as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

On behalf of TESOL Arabia’s Conference Organizing Committee we look forward to welcoming you all to the 2010 Conference!

Jo Kennedy

Mashael Al-Hamly