Building Bridges Through Language - A Conversation with Arabiatee's Founder: Lidia Kamyshova
In this interview, Lidia Kamyshova, Founder of Arabiatee, an online Arabic language school, sheds light on her unique approach to language learning and her vision for empowering people around the world to embrace Arabic culture.
Q: What inspired you to create Arabiatee?
Lidia Kamyshova (LK): My own struggles as a student sparked the idea. After diligently studying Arabic for years, I arrived in Jordan and could not hold a conversation with native speakers. Witnessing similar frustrations among my students as a teacher solidified my belief that traditional methods were not effective for real-world communication.
Q: How does Arabiatee address the shortcomings of existing language programs?
LK: We identified two significant issues: the classical approach, demanding years of study with no clear time limit for achieving fluency, and the dialect-based approach, which lacks structure and focuses on rote memorization. Arabiatee offers a refreshing alternative.
Q: Can you elaborate on Arabiatee’s methodology?
LK: We view Arabic as a logical system, akin to a mathematical model. This enables us to prioritise practical vocabulary based on Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) grammar and logic. Students can grasp the language’s core structure quickly, allowing them to speak and write within just three hours!
Q: What sets Arabiatee apart from other online Arabic learning platforms?
LK: We prioritise several aspects. First, our content is engaging and keeps students motivated. We create and customise our materials for various industries and cultures, ensuring a personalised learning experience. Second, we have a rigorous teacher training program focused on engagement, positive reinforcement, and confidence building. Finally, we cater to diverse needs by offering courses in English and Russian, with Spanish and more languages planned.
Q: How do you ensure your courses are accessible to learners with varying proficiency levels?
LK: We conduct market research and gather student feedback to design courses tailored to specific needs. Our offerings range from quick business Arabic courses focusing on spoken communication to comprehensive programs that include reading and writing.
Q: Arabiatee caters to a global audience. How do you adapt your teaching methods for learners with diverse backgrounds and learning styles?
LK: We embrace diversity in both our course materials and our teachers. We have instructors specialising in teaching children and adults, and we continuously analyse student feedback to refine our methods. Up-to-date pedagogical approaches are employed, with playful elements for young learners and engaging activities for adult students.
Q: What role does technology play in Arabiatee’s learning experience?
LK: Technology is paramount. Our interactive platform offers a dynamic learning environment. We plan to leverage innovative tools like AI and gamification to further personalise the learning journey and make it even more captivating.
Q: Arabiatee prioritises continuous improvement. How do you incorporate learner feedback?
LK: Student feedback is our gold standard. We utilise surveys, conduct focus groups, and monitor student progress to identify areas for improvement. This feedback loop allows us to constantly refine our courses and ensure they meet the evolving needs of our learners.
Q: What are Arabiatee’s plans for future growth?
LK: Arabiatee is the first step in a larger vision. We aim to create a one-stop-shop online platform encompassing all things Arabic language and culture. This may involve developing in-house products or collaborating with other language-learning resources. We want to empower people worldwide to connect with Arabic culture, regardless of their background or location.
Q: Learning a new language can be daunting. How does Arabiatee support students who might struggle or lose motivation?
LK: We understand the challenges. Arabiatee offers a supportive community environment where students can connect with peers and instructors. We also provide motivational tools,