The Faculty of Language Studies (FLS) was established in 2002, at the very start of the Arab Open University (AOU). At present, it offers a BA Programme (Hons) in English Language and Literature (ELL) in all AOU branches. The programme is based on core courses derived from the Open University UK using textbooks, support materials, and approaches of the highest international standards. Demand on this prestigious programme is growing, since it is relevant not only to students' intellectual and knowledge growth, but also to their career needs.
OU/AOU
Degree | Academic Program |
Bachelor | English Language and Literature (ELL) |
English Language Unit (ELU) To enhance the student's English in the said programmes, FLS also houses the English Language Unit which is primarily responsible for both the Orientation & Foundation programmes. These two programmes, which the students normally take in their first-year, are tailored for students who enroll at the university, with the dual aim of working on their problem areas in English and on enhancing their English communication skills, to enable them to pursue their studies at AOU successfully and to prepare them for the workplace later. ELU is also responsible for implementing the Oxford Online Placement Test (OOPT) and a host of activities which support remedial English-language learning. In addition to the orientation and foundation programme courses.
Arabic Language Unit (ALU)To enhance the students' Arabic skills, FLS also houses the Arabic Language Unit which is primarily responsible for all the Arabic courses offered: AR111 and AR112 which are university requirements. They enable students to acquire the Arabic language skills needed at university level, and develop their skills in text analysis and literary appreciation. In addition to that, ALU offers equivalent Arabic courses to Speakers of other languages which are: AFL111 and AFL112.
Distinguished TutorsFLS prides itself on having tutors who are extremely competent in methods of traditional and blended learning, and of the material taught in their courses. They constantly challenge their students to new horizons of thinking and knowledge beyond their competence in their fields of specialisation and diligence. The tutors are also extremely supportive of students, always going out of their way to make students feel welcome and to offer prompt assistance when needed. FLS will continue to hire outstanding tutors, with relevant experience, expertise, and outstanding records.
Scientific ResearchFLS faculty members devote a great deal of time to tutoring. After all, helping our students learn, develop, and excel is our major task. Nevertheless, FLS tutors devote additional time and effort to research, which is an important part of the mission of AOU. They author and publish individual and joint research in refereed journals of the best standards. While much of the research focuses on knowledge that is viable in the international arena (as any research should), much of it also aims to serve concerns of the Arab-Islamic nation – with specific reference to the Arabic language, Arabic literature and Arab culture. After all, our university is a significant “pan-Arab" initiative, established (in part) with the aim of espousing matters directly pertaining to the Arab nation.
Continuous Growth and DevelopmentFLS is growing and developing with the aim of both matching developments in our fast-changing world, and catering to the diverse and ever-expanding needs of learners, wherever they are and no matter what their level in English is. A host of new programmes and activities is in the making, and they will be announced in due time.
Sustainable International PartnershipsFLS is proud of the fact that it is strongly affiliated with the OU-UK. And this, indeed, is a major source of our strength. But FLS also seeks partnerships with other HE institutions in the region with similar vision and mission, and with international institutions from both East and West. In a world which has become visibly multicultural and global, global partnerships are a must – sharing experience and cooperating on several specific initiatives, projects and programmes.
