Dr. Ali Al Issa, the esteemed Omani educator known as the most cited Omani scholar, facilitated two workshops for the ELC faculty at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Shinas College of Technology on January 19, 2017.

In the first workshop dubbed “Teaching Mixed Ability Classes: A Critical Perspective,” Dr. Ali elicited insights from the faculty as he shed light on the characteristics of a ‘professional’ teacher.

“In a mixed-ability class, teachers have a great opportunity to flex their creativity and innovation muscles,” posited the associate professor of TESOL from Sultan Qaboos University.

Dr. Ali urged the teachers to “have mixed teaching methods and approaches, mixed innovative and creative ideas, mixed assessment tools and strategies, and mixed materials and resources.”

In the second workshop titled “Beyond Teaching: A Critical Lens,” Dr. Ali inspired the faculty to conduct research in order to learn continually and advance professionally.

“To become ‘professional’ teachers and effective practitioners, you need to learn the inside out of TEFL,” Dr. Ali encouraged the ELC faculty.

ELC’s Staff Professional Development Team headed by Mr. Saif Al Washahi organized the two workshops.