In a new publication, ‘The Future of English: Global Perspectives’ the authors sought to discover how English – “its teaching, assessment, and use in business will be affected in a rapidly changing world”.

The publication is part of a long-term research programme designed to identify which “key trends will define the role of English as a global language in the coming decade” and also to explore “the issues and opportunities for countries around the world in achieving their goals for the use of English”.

This article looks at some of the main points of the research, including what role the English language might play in multicultural societies and to what extent employment drives the future of English.

Read on to find out more…

The global dominance of the English language

The English language is the most spoken language in the world, with around 1.5billion people speaking it natively, or as a second language.

It has the ability to connect people (through a shared first or second language) and is also one of the UN’s 6 official languages alongside, Arabic, Spanish, Russian, Chinese and French.

According to the British Council publication, English will remain the “dominant global lingua franca (a language used by people with different native languages to communicate with each other), but the role it plays in the lives of individuals or in policies will begin to change”.

This change is dependent upon many factors including the ‘digital divide’.

Many communities around the world have limited access to technology which can impact their ability to learn the English language leading to significant social, economic, and educational repercussions for those communities.

However, the publication suggest that the English language can look forward to continued prominence with the “number of learners remaining stable or rising over the next ten years”.

The role of English in multicultural societies

The publication used data and information from 49 countries and territories, many of which are now multicultural societies.

This multiculturalism has become the norm in many regions due to exploration, colonisation, migration and latterly, globalization.

Within these multicultural societies, English is often one the languages used by individuals during everyday conversations and has given rise to non-native speaking people using a “full range of languages organically and fluidly – a practice known as ‘translanguaging’.”

This has led to some governments restricting the use of English in certain settings (such as the Italian government) while others (such as the Ukrainian government) have pushed for dual language signs throughout the country and are creating regulations for promoting the use of the English language among officials.

The publication suggests that the English language now increasingly “belongs” to anybody that uses it, and it can be used however they like, in whatever form suits the situation, in order to successfully interact with others.

To what extent does employment drive the use of English?

Globalization and technological advances have changed the way organizations and corporations operate, and this had led to a change in skills required of employees.

According to the publication, many of these organizations previously desired employees who possessed highly technical skills, but now they are looking for employees who are good all-rounders with the ability to combine technical know-how with interpersonal ‘soft skills’ such as cultural awareness, teambuilding and problem solving.

These skills are vital in multicultural teams or multilingual workforces which are now far more common.

As with social and personal communications around the world, English is also the lingua franca of the business world.

It is often the ‘official’ language of choice for multinational organizations, and so the notion of ‘international business’ demands the expansion and the development of the use of English.

Similarly, English is becoming a “requirement for all sectors of industry” at all levels and it is not only those in senior positions or professional roles who are required to be proficient in the English language, but also those who work in lower-skilled roles such as, tourism or retail.

The publication also addresses the question of whether “English [will] remain the world’s most sought-after language”.

It suggests that its use, and the number of learners will likely rise over the next decade, and the main factors for this will be education, employment, technology and global mobility.

Employers, parents, and learners are driving the need for English language education and proficiency as they see it as a “necessity for success in life, learning and employment”.

As the data shows, “the future of English is interesting, dynamic and contextual” and for now at least, English is set to continue to “connect people and change lives”.

If you’d like to know more about the research undertaken by the British Council or read the publication itself, click here.

The post The future of the English language in a global setting appeared first on Creative Word, Dubai.

This figure is staggering and highlights how multicultural teams really benefit organizations through improved creativity, healthy competition and diverse perspectives.

However, while multicultural teams are frequently the norm in today’s diverse workplace, they can also pose hurdles within organizations if not managed correctly.

This is where cross-cultural training comes into play.

Cross-cultural training ensures leaders and teams function well while also helping to avoid cultural stereotyping, prejudice, and ignorance.

It is an essential element in a cohesive, productive and happy workforce.

Let’s take a look at why this is the case in more detail…

How does cross-cultural training improve productivity?

It might sound like a bold statement, but it is also a proven fact – cross-cultural training really does improve productivity!

It does this in the following ways:

• Improving Communication – cross-cultural training helps employees understand different communication styles, preferences, and norms prevalent in diverse cultures. By improving communication skills, employees collaborate more effectively, reducing misunderstandings and conflicts that can impede productivity.

• Team cohesion – when employees understand and respect each other’s cultural backgrounds, it fosters a sense of unity and cohesion within teams. Cross-cultural training promotes empathy and appreciation for diverse perspectives, leading to stronger team dynamics and smoother workflow.

• Conflict resolution – cultural differences can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and conflicts in the workplace. Cross-cultural training equips employees with the skills to navigate and resolve conflicts arising from cultural differences constructively. This leads to faster conflict resolution, minimizing disruptions to productivity.

• Enhanced creativity and innovation – exposure to diverse perspectives through cross-cultural training stimulates creativity and innovation within teams. Different cultural viewpoints inspire novel approaches to problem-solving and product development, driving organizational growth and competitiveness.

• Improved customer relations – in a global business environment, understanding and respecting customers’ cultural backgrounds are essential for building strong relationships. Cross-cultural training enables employees to effectively engage with customers from diverse cultural backgrounds, leading to improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.

• Effective global expansion – for organizations expanding into international markets, cross-cultural training is crucial for success. It prepares employees for navigating the cultural nuances of target markets, adapt marketing strategies, and helps to tailor products or services to local preferences, thereby facilitating smoother expansion and maximizing opportunities for growth.

• Employee retention and satisfaction – providing cross-cultural training demonstrates an organization’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, which can boost employee morale and job satisfaction. Employees feel valued and supported when their cultural backgrounds are acknowledged and respected, leading to higher retention rates and increased productivity.

Productivity of an organization is intricately linked to its workforce; if teams are happy, work well together, can unlock their creativity and skills, and build positive relationships, then increased productivity follows as a natural progression.

At Creative Word, we understand the importance diverse and inclusive organizations, and created our cross-cultural training courses to promote education, knowledge, self-awareness and Return on Investment.

We are globally renowned specialists at designing and delivering courses that can be created in close collaboration with you and your organisation.

Our cultural awareness courses assist people working internationally to become more understanding towards the different attitudes and behaviours of people worldwide.

Find out more about the courses we offer here, or contact us now to book a cross-cultural training course.

The post How cross-cultural training improves the productivity of an organization appeared first on Creative Word, Dubai.

Clear, effective, accurate and informative communication is vital in every element of business, and professional interpreters make this a reality when there is a language barrier – human interpreters support and facilitate communication ensuring everyone gets their point across, and in turn, understands what is being said to them.

Effective interpreting benefits your global business in the following ways…

Facilitating communication

Interpreters bridge the language barrier, enabling effective communication between you and your international partners, clients, and employees. They ensure that your message is accurately conveyed and understood by all parties, reducing the risk of miscommunication or misunderstandings that might otherwise hinder business relationships or deals. Professional interpreters are also often trained in other industries (besides their language talents) which is particularly beneficial when dealing with complex industries such as, law, medicine, or engineering where industry terminology and jargon can often be complicated or elaborate. Their in-depth of your particular industry really helps facilitate on-point communication.

Building trust and relationships

By providing accurate and fluent communication, interpreters help build trust with international counterparts. When we feel understood and respected in our native language, we are more likely to develop strong relationships, leading to fruitful business collaborations and partnerships. Global relationships can easily falter due to miscommunication and difficult language barriers but a professional interpreter ensures they stay on course.

Expanding market reach

Hiring interpreters allows you to expand your business operations and reach new global markets. By overcoming language barriers, you can confidently engage with customers, negotiate deals, or participate in international conferences, exhibitions, and trade shows, which increases your visibility and market opportunities.

Enhancing customer service

Effective interpreting can improve customer service by enabling clear communication between your company and international clients. They assist with handling inquiries, providing product information, resolving issues, and ensuring customer satisfaction, regardless of the language spoken. Research shows that the majority of customers using global brands prefer to view content, reviews, and products in their native language, with 40% stating that they won’t buy in another language.

Avoiding cultural pitfalls

Native speaking interpreters have a deep cultural knowledge which helps you navigate cultural nuances and avoid potential pitfalls. They provide insights into local customs, etiquette, and business practices, helping you to adapt your strategies and communications appropriately, and ultimately foster positive cross-cultural interactions.

Saving time and resources

Investing in professional interpreters saves your company time and resources that would otherwise be spent on hiring and training bilingual staff, or on the tedious task of using machine translation tools that may not provide accurate results. Interpreters work efficiently and accurately, allowing you to focus on core business tasks. Internal business matters such as, global HR, training, and sales, all become easier when using interpreters – they aren’t just for external business purposes, they can be hugely beneficial internally too.

Strengthening competitive advantage

Effective communication with international stakeholders gives you a competitive advantage in the global market. Through professional, native-speaking interpreters, you can deliver compelling presentations, negotiate better deals, and showcase your products or services effectively, positioning your business as a reliable and professional global player.

If you’re looking for professional, effective interpreting services to help take your business to the next level, contact us now.

The post How effective interpreting benefits your global business appeared first on Creative Word, Dubai.

For international business professionals, successfully conducting business in the Arab world means understanding a culture, protocols, and a language which are very different to the UK and Europe.

This is daunting, especially if it is the first time you’ve visited the Arab world, or you’ve previously had limited interaction with Arab stakeholders.

But, as with most things, preparation is key to successful international negotiations.

At Creative Word, we’re experts in the Arabic culture and language, so we’ve gathered together the key language phrases and business culture tips you’ll need for doing business in the Arab world, so you’ll be more prepared.

Key Arabic Business Phrases

Understanding your clients, investors, or suppliers background, language and culture has never been more important in business than it is now.

Below you’ll find the most frequently used Arabic business phrases to assist you in meetings and negotiations with your Arabic counterparts.

This will show you’ve tried to learn some of their language and have an appreciation of their culture.

1. السلام عليكم (Assalaam alaykum) – Peace be upon you (Greeting)

Reply: وعليكم السلام (Wa alaykum assalaam) – and upon you be peace.

2. أهلاً وسهلاً (Ahlan wa sahlan) – Welcome

Reply: أهلاً فيك (Ahlan feek (masc.)/feekee (fem.)

3. فرصة سعيدة (Fursa sa’eeda) – Nice to meet you

4. مع السلامة (Ma’ assalaama) – Goodbye

5. تفضل (Tafadal) – A useful word meaning “there you go”, or “go ahead”. Could be used to gesture for someone to enter or to sit.

6. أين المكتب؟ (Ayn al-maktab?) – Where’s the office?

7. أنا مدير(ة) الشركة (Ana mudeer (masc.)/ mudeera (fem.) ash-sharika) – I am the manager of the company

8. أنا موظف(ة) (Ana muwathaf (masc.)/ muwathafa (fem.)) – I am an employee

9.رحلة عمل (Rehlat ‘amal) – Business trip

10. هذه المرة الأولى لي في دبي (Hathahi al-mara al-oola lee fee Dubai) – This is my first time in Dubai

11. اسمي… )Esmi…) – My name is…

12. سأتصل بك (saa’tasilu bek) – I’ll call you

13. هذه بطاقتي (hathehi bitaqati) – Here is my business card

14. شكراً (shukran) – Thank you

15. إن شاء الله (inshallah) – if God wills

Arab people tend to be very proud of their heritage and language so showing you have spent valuable time learning about their language and culture, will be appreciated and respected.

You will find that trying to use the Arabic language will go a long way and will certainly help in building a rapport.

Arabic Business Culture Tips

The Arab world is governed by the religion of Islam which impacts everything from daily life to the business world.

Understanding some of the cultural characteristics within the Arab world will help ensure you are considered polite, respectful, and courteous by your hosts or your business counterparts.

The following points are only a guideline but will help you avoid making an innocent faux pas or causing offence.

Business Meetings

• Dress formally and conservatively (women should cover shoulders, upper arms and legs)

• Punctuality is expected

• Small talk is likely as it helps to build good relationships which are central to all business negotiations in the Arab world

• Address counterparts by their titles unless requested to do otherwise

• Meetings are often more fluid than in the West, meaning that people may come and go, or make and receive phone calls

• Arab bosses tend to be fairly paternalistic, so conversation tends to be more personal because of this familiarity

• High pressure tactics are not favoured in the Arab world and can have a negative impact on negotiations

• The working week has changed recently to Monday to Friday, more in line with Western norms. However, some firms may still operate on the old system where Sunday is the start of the week

• Typical working hours may vary too with some firms operating a 9am-5pm, or 7.30am to 3pm, while others may have a long break during the day but remain open until late in the evening. Religious events such as Ramadan may result in shorter working hours throughout their duration

• Contrary to some popular Western beliefs, women hold many positions of power within business, society, and government

At Creative Word, it is our business to help you do business better in today’s ever evolving corporate world.

Contact us now to see how we can help you obtain your objective.

The post Arabic Language Phrases for Business Professionals appeared first on Creative Word, Dubai.

Currently, the test, which is required by UK visa applicants wishing to work or study in the UK, must be performed at an approved test-centre, but these aren’t available everywhere.

Test-centres currently only operate in 134 countries, meaning that individuals from countries such as, Guatemala, Paraguay, or some Caribbean islands, must travel to other countries in order to take the English-language test.

This can increase costs significantly for visa applicants, especially students who need to pass the test in order to study and to be accepted at the university of their choice.

However, Duolingo’s CEO and co-founder, Luis von Ahn, has recently confirmed that he is in talks with the UK government regarding plans which could see visa applicants being offered an online English-language test through the popular language app.

At present, the test offered by Duolingo is under £50 and is accepted at over 75 universities within the UK.

However, it is not yet accepted by the UK government as part of the visa application, but this may be about to change, thanks to Duolingo.

According to Luis von Ahn, the Duolingo test, first released in 2016 was a “pioneering digital-first, high stakes exam that is both reliable and more accessible than other English proficiency exams.”

The test is now “accepted by thousands of higher education programmes, and it is taken by hundreds of thousands of people around the world” in order to demonstrate their English-language proficiency in a secure and inexpensive way.

Even prestigious universities such as, Harvard, MIT and Stanford now accept the Duolingo test, especially since the Covid pandemic when education had to move online, and improvements were made regarding technology and security for online testing.

In the UK (the second most popular destination for international students after the USA) there are more than 27,500 students from the MENA region, and almost 10,000 of these are from Saudi Arabia.

Middle Eastern students account for just over 6% of all international students in the UK and all of them would have to obtain a visa, and prove their English-language proficiency, in order to study.

If the Duolingo English-language test is accepted by the UK government, it will make the process easier for students from the MENA region to demonstrate their language abilities and should help promote equality by making the test more affordable for all.

The post Duolingo to Offer English-Language Test for Visa if Agreed with UK Government appeared first on Creative Word, Dubai.

While the Middle East in general has traditionally been seen as a region where men dominate the business world, in Dubai, where there is a more liberal attitude, women are now well-established within the business arena and can find excellent opportunities for career progression.

However, Western women face certain cultural adjustments when moving to a Muslim country such as Dubai, and while adapting to any new city can be a little daunting, the more you know about the traditions, laws, and customs, the easier is it to fit comfortably into your new setting.

Understanding Dubai

Dubai (the city and the Emirate) has been made famous over the last few decades for its opulence, nightlife, and futuristic architecture so today it is a successful, modern Emirate operating as a base for many global and high-tech industries.

However, it is also a Muslim country, steeped in Islamic tradition and rooted in trade.

This trade has encouraged people from many nations to settle and work here, so much so that the population of Dubai is made up of around 85% expats and 15% native Arabs.

As you can imagine given these figures, it is relatively easy for Westerners to find a local network of supportive expats who have already “been there and done that!”

The high number of expats have also encouraged a more liberal stance from the government and new legislation has been passed to reflect this.

Gender equality has been a priority for the Emirate and laws passed last year to support the growing number of women and Westerners in Dubai have now made life a little easier and less restrictive.

These new laws allow for greater freedom for unmarried women, protect women’s rights in general, and permit a more flexible tolerance regarding alcohol and lifestyles for non-Muslim expats and tourists.

However, an understanding of Dubai’s laws and culture is essential for Western women choosing to live and work here and helps form an awareness and respect for Muslim traditions as although the Emirate is generally liberal in many of its views there are still some behaviours which are not acceptable and most of these are linked to Islam.

Below you’ll find a list of Dos and Don’ts which covers the basics of appropriate behaviour for Western women living and working in Dubai but a deeper understanding can be gained via cultural awareness training and can be invaluable for

Working Women in Dubai

Many Arab women now work in sectors such as nursing and education, but they can also be found in positions of power within both the government and business.

Almost 30% of governmental positions are filled by women and over 65% of all public sector roles, so there are few limits on how far you can progress as a woman in Dubai.

And, while the business world is still largely dominated by men, many senior level positions are now filled by women.

There are also many women-only business networks, especially on social media platforms, which encourage local support for women in business and can be really helpful when first finding your feet in Dubai.

The Dubai government are committed to gender equality and have formed the Dubai Women Establishment with the aim of highlighting “the importance of increasing Emirati women’s active participation in economic, social and political spheres, and enhancing their representation in leadership and decision-making roles in both the public and private sectors to utilize their capabilities as key partners in the development process.”

On the website you can access forums and publications or find support through initiatives such as “Qudwa” (meaning role model) where women share their knowledge, skills, and experiences.

Tips for Western Women in Dubai

• Women living in a Muslim country are expected to act and dress modestly both at work and socially

• If you are in doubt about the dress code for a particular function always err on the side of respectability and modesty; cover your shoulders and wear a skirt, or trousers, which cover your knees

• In tourist areas (beaches and hotel pools) swimwear is acceptable, but full nudity is a definite no-no

• Western (non-Muslim) women are permitted to drink without needing a special licence

• English is often used in business settings and many people understand and speak it, but Arabic is the official language

• Arabs tend to be very friendly, tactile people who enjoy hosting events and entertaining guests, so it is consider impolite to turn down an invitation without good reason

• The region is very safe for women – there are many women-only areas in parks, clubs, and spas, and public transport offers women-only sections. There are even “pink taxis” driven by women, for women

• During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims will refrain from eating and drinking from sunrise to sunset, so be prepared for some late-night work and meals

• Some Muslim men will refrain from touching a member of the opposite sex so don’t be surprised if they don’t offer you a handshake. If they do offer their hand, only use your right hand to reciprocate

• It is common to see two men hold hands or link arms and is a sign of close friendship – it should not be mistaken with homosexuality which is forbidden

• Public displays of affection are taboo – holding hands is acceptable but kissing or intimate cuddling is forbidden

• Punctuality is expected, as is respectfulness to elders or superiors

• The working week changed on January 1st 2022 to be more in line with Western nations. It used to run from Sunday to Thursday, but it is now common for firms to work Monday to Thursday with a half day on Friday (Friday is traditionally a religious day for Islamic nations)

Whether you are moving to Dubai for work or pleasure, it is important to understand the culture and people if you wish to settle in comfortably and easily.

Cultural awareness training is a good option for ensuring you’re culturally competent and ready to work within a predominantly Muslim setting.

The team here at Creative Word have years of experience helping firms ensure their employees are ready for successful business dealings with their Middle Eastern colleagues and contemporaries.

Contact us now to see how we can support you and your team.

The post Tips for Western Women Living and Working in Dubai appeared first on Creative Word, Dubai.

Running from 1st October 2021 to 31st March 2022, Expo 2020 offers visitors the opportunity to view the most exciting and innovative global collaborations linked to the sub-themes of Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability, all in one purpose-built site.

Some of the greatest inventions in recent history have first been show-cased at previous World Expos – for instance, Alexander Graham Bell demonstrated the world’s first telephone in 1876 at Philadelphia’s Expo and the first mechanical computer was displayed at the 1862 London International Exhibition on Industry and Art.

World Expos are places where virtually every nation’s finest creative, technological, and innovative minds come together to showcase the future – it is an opportunity to great to miss!

What’s on Offer at Expo 2020?

With 192 country pavilions, food from every corner of the world, entertainment ranging from opera to A-list stars, business and entrepreneurship, sports and wellbeing, architecture, and so much more, there really is something to suit every taste and thrill every sense.

Below you’ll find a snapshot of each district and some of the experiences available:

Country Pavilions

Each participating country has its own pavilion where visitors can fully immerse themselves in the culture and engage with the futuristic concepts created by each nation.

With 192 countries to choose from you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Each country has chosen one of the sub-themes (sustainability, opportunity, or mobility) which is reflected within their pavilion and the experiences available.

Sustainability District

Within the Sustainability District, you’ll see some of the world’s most advanced technology in action, be able to see what countries are doing to champion sustainability, and can experience how humans can enjoy living in harmony with nature in a high-tech future.

Countries within the Sustainability District include Brazil, Singapore, and Germany.

Here you’ll find waterfalls, rainforests, futuristic labs, miniature worlds, and much, much more.

Mobility District

Within our world of limitless connections, human progress is driven by mobility which transforms the way we live, connect with others, understand cultures, exchange information, and adapt.

The Mobility District showcases a futuristic, global society where the physical and digital worlds are connected to create a harmonious global culture where knowledge, goods, and ideas are exchanged with phenomenal speed.

Within the Mobility District you find countries such as, Australia, Russia, and the Republic of Korea.

They showcase autonomous vehicles, space travel, new concepts in mobility devices (which can be viewed in action on a 330m track) and so much more.

Opportunity District

The Opportunity District is the key to unlocking opportunities that can help individuals and communities create a promising future. It is the place where ideas come to life, and you can witness how each of these opportunities provide hope for all of us.

Dreams and aspirations are transformed into tomorrow’s realities and future possibilities are revealed.

Countries in the Opportunity District include the UK, Monaco and the Ukraine.

Here you’ll find futuristic technologies creating 3 ‘smart zones’, a garden of opportunity where it is possible to see things differently, and you can even hike up the ‘Swiss Alps‘!

Business Opportunities at Expo 2020

However, Expo 2020 isn’t all play…there is work to be done too.

With a full calendar of events and occasions linked to the business world such as, global investment forums, inspiring addresses from key speakers, and investor pitching conferences, there are unique opportunities waiting for you and your business.

More information about Expo 2020 can be found at the Expo 2020 Dubai UAE website.

The post Why Visit Expo 2020 Dubai? appeared first on Creative Word, Dubai.

It has been voted by travellers as one of the best places to visit numerous times in recent years, and Lonely Planet just ranked it in the top ten cities to visit in 2020.

So, just what is it that makes Dubai (both the city and the Emirate) so appealing to travellers, and why should you visit as soon as the Covid-19 travel ban is lifted?

1. Multicultural and Diverse

According to the Dubai government website, Dubai is “unique in the diversity and cohesiveness of its society, which was forged on tolerance, respect, forgiveness and communication since Dubai’s inception, which resulted in the creation of an exemplary multicultural society” and this can certainly be seen when travelling throughout the Emirate and in the city of Dubai.

Only 10% of the people who reside in Dubai are actually native Emiratis, the other 90% is made up of foreigners from all over the world.

Many of those who are living in Dubai are expats, predominantly Middle Eastern and Asian, with most Westerners being British.

So, wherever you hail from in the world, there is likely to be someone who speaks your language, is familiar with the customs and traditions of your native country, and can help you fit in with the expat community or society in general.

2. Historically and Architecturally Inspiring

Dubai is an awe inspiring city; from the engineering marvels of the Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest structure) to the archaeological site known as ‘Saruq Al Hadid’ (one of the most important and mysterious historical sites which was discovered by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai), there is something for everyone to enjoy, from ultra-modern to ancient and everything in between!

If these marvels aren’t enough to tempt you then consider visiting, or staying at, the Burj Al Arab, a hotel in the shape of a sail, or Palm Jumeirah, one of the largest manmade islands in the world, built in the shape of a palm tree.

3. Superb Shopping

Dubai is possibly most famous for its amazing shopping malls.

The Dubai Mall is home to over 1,000 shops, 150 restaurants and even has its own indoor ice rink, theme park, aquarium and underwater zoo.

It also boasts the world’s tallest waterfall (the Dubai fountain) which offers an enchanting water, lights and music display spread across an area the size of two football pitches, with jets reaching up to 140metres into the air.

One day at the Dubai Mall may not be long enough to visit all the attractions but there is definitely be something for every budget and every age.

4. Fantastic Food

As Dubai is such a multicultural country, you will find cuisine from just about every country in the world and there are more than 6000 restaurants to choose from.

You could select a gourmet meal served down by the waterside or up in the clouds, or feast like Bedouins in the Arabian Desert.

Traditional Arabic dishes such as, hummus, manakish (a doughy flat-bread, similar to pizza), Falafel (fried chickpea or fava bean balls), Shish taouk (skewered chicken cooked in a tandoor oven) must be sampled while visiting Dubai.

5. Adventure

Dubai (the city and the country) is a place made for adventure.

From desert safaris to skydiving, or hot air balloon flights to skiing, there is something to suit everyone’s tastes. There are theme parks galore, including, Legoland Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure, numerous waterparks, and Motiongate Dubai.

Parents and children alike will find adventure packed days, whether you decide to take a quad bike ride through the desert or a kitesurf along the beach, you’ll definitely be glad you visited Dubai!

The post Five Reasons to Visit Dubai after Lockdown appeared first on Creative Word, Dubai.

It has also become more widespread as an alternative to workplace training, for example, on-the-job training such as, health and safety, leadership and management skills, cultural awareness, or continuing IT improvements.

What is E-learning?

E-learning is a form of structured, virtual learning delivered to trainees and learners remotely through online portals.

Each course is different but will usually include some, or all of the following elements:

• Virtual classroom – remote teaching which can allow for live interaction between tutor and learners. Learners can be based at one location (in an office) or in multiple locations (when working from home)

• Webinars – an online seminar where tutors can deliver presentations, lectures and so on, which is often interactive. Topics can be discussed, and problems and solutions can be worked through together meaning learners are more engaged.

• Online resources – e-learning offers the ability for learners to engage with resources remotely, at any time and any place. Virtual libraries, links to further information and assessments can help learners monitor their progress and their success.

• Engaging components – components such as, an introduction to the course, course objectives, teaching modules, virtual classroom units, set tasks, pre-recorded teaching segments, assessments, practice activities and certification of completion (or exam certificate) should be available in all good quality e-learning courses.

E-learning is an effective method for training employees, ongoing personal development and continuing professional development, and is often a cheaper alternative for staff training as there are no travel or accommodation costs, can be delivered during work hours or in employees’ own time, and additionally, there is the benefit of being able to access the best training providers, no matter where they are based.

The Benefits of E-learning

Research has shown that e-learning is proven to be more effective for learners, especially e-learning based on “graphical lessons” which “can have a substantial effect on the acceptance of e-learning”.

Many e-learning training courses offer colourful, imaginative, interactive elements which help engage learners while improving retention and completion rates. The quality of training courses should be as good, if not better, than conventional learning options as training providers have been able to improve and adapt their courses over time where necessary, and they are also more consistent due to some elements being pre-recorded.

E-learning offers the following benefits:

• Cost-effective training – costs usually linked to training such as, accommodation, travel, and materials are lower than with conventional training which is good news for businesses during the current uncertain economic climate

• Flexibility – e-learning can often be performed anywhere and at any time. This suits learners who may be more motivated and receptive at specific times of the day or night, and also means that firms can schedule training into particular time slots that fit best for them and their employees

• Self-structured learning – learners can engage with training courses at their own pace and according to their individual abilities. It is also possible to revisit modules that they didn’t understand or to revise parts in order to improve personal results.

• Convenient – e-learning is more convenient than traditional learning in many ways. There is no travel, it can be tailored to an individual’s requirements, and it can be performed anywhere.

• Engaging – good quality, professional e-learning courses engage with learners through offering diverse, colourful, interactive components that appeal to many different learning styles and preferences. There is usually something for everyone, no matter which style of learning engages you best, such as, videos, games, images and appealing written segments. Learning is more effective, and information is retained for longer, if it is fun.

If you are looking to improve your personal development, employability, or continue your professional development during the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions, then the Creative Word team can help.

We offer a variety of e-learning courses ranging from IT and Cultural Awareness to Legal and Soft Skills, so we have something for everyone.

Contact us for more information or check out our dedicated training website here.

The post E-Learning for Continuing Professional Development during Times of Change appeared first on Creative Word, Dubai.