August 2011

Joining the Digital Dots

August 2011 Cover

Traditionally every August, we publish our annual focus on technology, hoping that many readers will have a little extra time over the summer to assess the latest developments and work out where they can find the means to finance them. However, technology has now become so much a part of not only the language education process but communication in general that we would find it difficult to publish any issue without covering technical innovations.

Because of this plethora of products and current budgetary woes, it is more important than ever to take the time to assess the value of new programs and devices before jumping on the speeding technology bus, so our August issue will continue to focus on technology with the emphasis on the practical — making technology work instead of getting carried away by the latest gadget. In this edition, there’s a feature on classroom tasks suited to interactive whiteboards, a round-up of the latest internet-based language programs, and an in-depth look at how Arabic designers have tackled the challenge of adapting their language to the Latin script bias of the digital age. More

IN THIS ISSUE:

Reach Out and Read (Aloud)
Stephen Krashen with an inexpensive, simple approach to closing the equity gap in literacy

Separado o Together?
Else Hamayan reflects on the separation of languages of instruction

Enlivening the Board
Sarah Withee offers advice on using interactive whiteboards for communicative language teaching

Web of World Languages
Language Magazine’s selection of the latest in online world language learning

Changing the Face of Arabic
Sandy Saghbini and Raisa Zaidi explain the complex, controversial, and creative impact of technology on Arabic typeface development

Staying True to Type
Sandy Saghbini asks Rana Abou Rjeily, creator of Mirsaal typeface, how type designers adapt to changing demands

Renaissance? What Renaissance?
Mourad Boutros shares his passion for creativity with Arabic design

Spanish from Cartagena to Patagonia
Language Magazine looks at study abroad options in Colombia and Argentina

Last Writes
Richard Lederer with Good Book words