KU Affairs

Khalifa University, American University of Sharjah, and Amity University Dubai to Individually Focus on Themes Relevant to the Region

May 2, 2023

Three Universities in UAE Collaborating to Organize Best Practices in Teaching and Learning Conference 2023

 

Three universities in the UAE – Khalifa University of Science and Technology in Abu Dhabi, American University of Sharjah (AUS), and Amity University Dubai – are collaborating to organize the Best Practices in Teaching and Learning Conference 2023 to focus on inspiring teaching and enriching learning.

 

Scheduled to be held from 1-5 May, the conference will highlight innovative practices, present scholarship of teaching and learning projects, and will celebrate teaching award winners. In addition to the central conference theme, each of three CAA-accredited universities will have its own focus areas. Khalifa University will focus on STEM education and student empowerment, the AUS will focus on the new trends and innovative approaches in education, while Amity University Dubai (AUD) will focus on active learning.

 

Dr. Fawaz Hazza Abu Sitta, UNESCO Chair in Anticipatory Systems, UNESCO, and Dr. Maria Eugenia Toro-Troconis, EdTech Consultant for the United Nations, are among the speakers, who will share their perspectives at the conference.

 

Dr. Ahmed Al Shoaibi, Senior Vice-President, Academic and Student Affairs, Khalifa University, said: “As a leader in pioneering STEM education, Khalifa University employs an “integrative learning” strategy that transcends academic boundaries, and encourages students to address real-world problems which requires them to consider issues from a variety of perspectives. The “integrative learning” approach will enable students to consolidate the university experience into a coherent whole that prepares them for their personal, professional, and civic life. The “Integrative Learning” approach is a four-tier strategy that employs the following tools such as High Impact Practices (HIPs), Work-Integrated Learning/Experiential Learning, Personal-Professional Development and Blended Learning.

 

“We believe this conference will be an excellent platform for the Higher Education community to share best practices and to collaborate on addressing the challenges facing universities. The presence of renowned speakers from the region and across the world, including from multilateral organizations, will significantly enrich the discussions, the level of knowledge exchange in teaching and learning methodologies, and provide insights on emerging education trends.”

 

Dr Fazal Malik, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Amity University Dubai, said: “By bringing together three CAA-accredited universities, our teachers and students will benefit from a student-centered learning and engagement approach.

 

By involving students in the learning process, we are developing the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs and innovative thinkers in the UAE.  Conferences like these are important for the region, as these events give students, academics and industry experts a platform to network and discuss best practices in teaching and learning, helping to position the UAE as the next emerging higher education hub.”

 

Dr. James Griffin, Vice Provost for Undergraduate Affairs and Instruction at American University of Sharjah, said: “We are excited to collaborate with Khalifa University of Science and Technology and Amity University in Dubai for the forthcoming Best Practices in Teaching and Learning Conference 2023. This conference aims to showcase innovative teaching practices, address regional educational needs, and inspire excellence in teaching and learning. We eagerly anticipate engaging in insightful discussions, learning from esteemed speakers, and forging meaningful connections with fellow educators from within and outside the UAE’s higher education community. Together, we can leverage new trends and technologies to create innovative learning experiences for our students and inspire teaching and learning excellence.”

 

The conference will feature keynote speeches from renowned experts in education and a series of workshops and panel discussions on topics such as active learning, assessment strategies, and technology-enhanced learning. The workshops will be led by experienced educators who will provide practical insights and tips for incorporating innovative teaching and learning practices into the classroom.

 

With more than 600 attendees expected from the UAE’s higher education community, the conference will offer a diverse range of perspectives and expertise from across the region. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from leading experts in teaching and learning, attend interactive workshops, and network with peers from across the UAE.

 

Clarence Michael
English Editor Specialist
2 May 2023