The English Language Center (ELC) of Shinas College of Technology (ShCT) together with Sohar Aluminum, Vale and Orpic sponsored the 5th Annual ELT (English Language Teaching) Workshop with the theme “Achieving Quality in the Classroom” on April 25, 2012.

Dr. Brian Peppin, Head of the ELC, welcomed the gathering and shared some thoughts regarding ‘quality.’ The keynote speaker, Mr. Neil McBeath, professor at Sultan Qaboos University, built upon this notion by presenting "Quality in the English Language Classroom" which acknowledged regional challenges and established some qualitative criteria language lecturers can strive toward.

Following this presentation, there were two sessions and various presentations based on the theme but catered toward and chosen by each individual workshop participant. Topics ranged from various practical implementations of pedagogy, including but not limited to: peer editing, lateral thinking and brainstorming, strategies to teach summary writing, and various tips on adapting teaching materials to meet the specific regional needs of learners.

This workshop gave English language lecturers a forum for exchanging ideas that will, in turn, benefit not only those students enrolled at ShCT, but also the lecturers and students throughout the whole region.