College of Languages and Translation
Celebrating Excellence in Academia and Research
This page showcases the achievements of our college and its esteemed faculty members, highlighting our commitment to excellence in academia and research.
We began comprehensive tracking and featuring achievements on this webpage on August 1, 2024.
For achievements and news stories prior to August 1, 2024, please visit our news archive. There, you can find news stories that include various accomplishments dating back to March 2014. Access the archive here: News Archive.
Please note that this page does not capture all achievements. Some accomplishments are shared as news stories, others through internal work group communication channels such as WhatsApp, Enjaz, or email. Additionally, some achievements are kept on file within the college and shared with the college by various Deanships.
If you would like to share achievements at any level - from college-wide accomplishments down to individual faculty member recognitions - please email ealeisa@kku.edu.sa.
The content displayed on this page reflects what has been formally submitted for recognition. Any apparent gaps in achievement representation simply indicate periods where no submissions were received. We strive to showcase all accomplishments that are brought to our attention.
College Accomplishments Timeline
June 18, 2025
College of Languages and Translation Releases New SJLS Journal Issue
The College of Languages and Translation is pleased to announce the publication of the latest issue of the Saudi Journal of Language Studies (SJLS). This marks the release of the 3rd issue of the 5th volume, published online today, continuing the journal's commitment to advancing linguistic research and scholarship.
For more details about the journal and to access the latest issue, please visit: https://www.emerald.com/insight/publication/issn/2634-243x/vol/5/iss/3
In this new issue, we feature five compelling research papers:
The Morphology of the First Person Kana Words
Abstract (Brief): This study examines the morphological structures and patterns of first-person Kana words, providing insights into their linguistic features and usage contexts.
The English Past Tense Oral Performance of Saudi EFL Learners
Abstract (Brief): This research investigates the oral production of English past tense forms by Saudi EFL learners, analyzing common patterns and challenges in their linguistic performance.
Exploring the Role of English Language and Mapping Its Uses for Postgraduate Students in Saudi Universities
Abstract (Brief): This comprehensive study maps the various roles and applications of English language in postgraduate education across Saudi universities, offering valuable insights for academic planning and policy.
A Critique of Multicultural Education Policy in Non-Western Teacher Education: Unravelling In-Service Teachers' Perceptions and Practices
Abstract (Brief): This critical analysis examines multicultural education policies in non-Western teacher education contexts, exploring the perceptions and practices of in-service teachers.
Exploring Interrogative Elliptical Structures with Prepositional Phrases in Arabic
Abstract (Brief): This linguistic study investigates the structure and function of interrogative elliptical constructions that incorporate prepositional phrases in Arabic language.
June 16, 2025
CLT Faculty Publishes Groundbreaking Research on Teacher Emotional Support in Applied Linguistics
The College of Languages and Translation at King Khalid University proudly announces a significant research achievement by Prof. Fakieh Alrabai, Vice Dean for Research and Graduate Studies, and his PhD student Wala Algazzaz.
Publication Details:
Journal: Applied Linguistics (Oxford Academic)
Title: "Testing experimental-based models on the influence of teacher emotional support on students' basic psychological needs, emotions, and emotional engagement"
Study Scope
63
Participants
Duration
10
Weeks
Impact
94%
Variance Explained
This groundbreaking study explores the crucial role of teacher emotional support in language learning environments. The research, informed by self-determination theory, tested experiment-based models incorporating teacher emotional support (TES) and students' basic psychological needs satisfaction.
Key Findings:
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Significant positive changes in students' basic psychological needs, emotions, and emotional engagement
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Models explained 91-94% of variance in learners' emotional engagement
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Teacher emotional support effects were largely mediated by learners' needs satisfaction and enjoyment
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Evidence supports creating emotionally supportive classroom environments for enhanced learning outcomes
April 11, 2025
Groundbreaking Research Challenges Traditional Views on Language Anxiety
A groundbreaking experimental study by Abdullah Alamer (King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia), Fakieh Alrabai (King Khalid University, Saudi Arabia), and Richard Sparks (Mount Saint Joseph University, USA) has been published in Language Teaching Research, a prestigious peer-reviewed journal listed in the Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI).
Article Details:
Title: "Reducing Language Anxiety by Increasing Language Achievement: A New Experimental Study"
DOI: 10.1177/13621688251322840
The study directly challenges the traditional view that foreign language anxiety causes lower achievement. Instead, it provides strong empirical evidence—through a quasi-experimental design and latent growth curve modeling—that improving students' second language (L2) vocabulary achievement leads to a significant decrease in their language anxiety over time.
Sample Size
143
Saudi University Students
Methodology
Quasi-Experimental
Design with LGC Modeling
Key Finding
Reversed
Traditional Causality
Significance of the Research:
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Demonstrated that vocabulary-focused intervention significantly improved L2 scores and reduced anxiety
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No direct anxiety-reduction strategies were used, yet anxiety decreased
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Marks a methodological and theoretical shift in applied linguistics
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Calls for educators to prioritize skill-based instruction to indirectly address emotional barriers
This publication represents a paradigm shift in understanding the relationship between language anxiety and achievement, with significant implications for language teaching methodology worldwide.
March 20, 2025
College of Languages and Translation Releases New SJLS Journal Issue
The College of Languages and Translation is pleased to announce the publication of the latest issue of the Saudi Journal of Language Studies (SJLS). This marks the release of the 2nd issue of the 5th volume, published online on March 20, 2025, showcasing cutting-edge research in discourse analysis and linguistic studies.
For more details about the journal and to access the latest issue, please visit: https://www.emerald.com/insight/publication/issn/2634-243x/vol/5/iss/2
In this issue, we feature four compelling research papers:
Lexical Density in English Newspapers: A Cross-Analysis of the New York Times and Arab News
Abstract (Brief): This comparative study analyzes lexical density patterns in English-language newspapers, examining the linguistic differences between the New York Times and Arab News to understand variations in journalistic writing styles across cultural contexts.
Interactional Metadiscourse Markers in Political Science and Creative Arts Journal Abstracts
Abstract (Brief): This research investigates the use of interactional metadiscourse markers in academic journal abstracts, comparing their deployment across political science and creative arts disciplines to reveal disciplinary writing conventions.
Modalization Strategies and Axiological Values in Sports Discourse: An Analysis of a Media Dossier
Abstract (Brief): This study examines modalization strategies and underlying value systems in sports media discourse, providing insights into how linguistic choices shape the representation of sporting events and athletes.
The Representation of Authorial and External Voice in Popular Science Book Writing: A Systemic Functional Linguistics Approach
Abstract (Brief): Using systemic functional linguistics, this research analyzes how authorial and external voices are represented in popular science books, offering insights into the linguistic strategies used to communicate scientific knowledge to general audiences.
January 21, 2025
College of Languages and Translation Releases New SJLS Journal Issue
The College of Languages and Translation is pleased to announce the publication of the latest issue of the Saudi Journal of Language Studies (SJLS). Now in its 5th volume, 1st issue (2025), the journal continues to serve as a platform for scholars and researchers, highlighting innovative linguistic research and fostering academic discourse.
For more details about the journal and to access the latest issue, please visit: https://www.emerald.com/insight/publication/issn/2634-243x/vol/5/iss/1
In this new issue, we feature four compelling research papers:
A Systematic Review of Current Trends in Artificial Intelligence in Foreign Language Learning
Author: Eman Alhusaiyan
Abstract (Brief): This study provides a comprehensive examination of AI-supported language learning trends and advancements over the past decade. Analyzing 15 empirical research articles through the lens of activity theory, the review highlights the potential of AI in enhancing writing quality, scoring accuracy, and learner engagement.
Experiences and Perceptions of Saudi EFL Teachers on Professional Development in Technology Integration into Teaching
Author: Mona Alshehri
Abstract (Brief): This survey-based study explores Saudi EFL teachers' perspectives on professional development for technology-enhanced teaching at the university level.
Artificial Intelligence-Based Assessment in ELT Exam Creation: A Case Study of Van Lang University Lecturers
Authors: Duy Nguyen Luc Ha, Anh Tu Nguyen
Abstract (Brief): Drawing on interviews with lecturers at various language institutes, this qualitative study investigates the potential of AI for English Language Teaching (ELT) exam creation.
English Loan Verbs in Jordanian Arabic: Morphological Integration and Speaker Acceptability Judgments
Author: Hannah Noel Smith
Abstract (Brief): This research delves into the borrowing of English verbs in Jordanian Arabic (JA), examining two main strategies: direct morphological integration and pairing loan words with the light verb ʕamal ("do").
October 15, 2024
College of Languages and Translation Launches Chinese Language Basics Program
The College of Languages and Translation at King Khalid University is introducing a "Chinese Language Basics" program, set to begin on November 17, 2024. This innovative initiative aims to provide members of the public with fundamental skills in Mandarin Chinese, covering reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Key features of the program include:
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36 hours of instruction over two months
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Focus on pronunciation, character writing, practical communication, and cultural exploration
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Multiple time slots available (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday or Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday)
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Classes held at the College of Languages and Translation
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Open to all interested individuals, regardless of prior experience
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Course fee: SAR 2,000
October 10, 2024
College of Languages and Translation Releases New SJLS Journal Issue
The College of Languages and Translation is pleased to announce the publication of the latest issue of the Saudi Journal of Language Studies (SJLS). This marks the release of the 3rd issue of the 4th volume, highlighting the journal's ongoing commitment to advancing linguistic research.
In this issue, we are proud to feature three compelling research papers:
Exploring Iranian English Language Teachers' Hope: An Ecological Perspective
Authors: Sedigheh Karimpour, Majid Elahi Shirvan, and Mojdeh Shahnama
Artificial Intelligence-Powered Tools and Academic Writing: To Use or Not to Use ChatGPT
Author: Bakr Bagash Mansour Ahmed Al-Sofi
Does Applying Inductive Methods Based on System Thinking Improve EFL Grammar Learning?
Author: Nurah Alfares
September 12, 2024
New Study Published by Dr. Nada Alqarni from King Khalid University in the Prestigious Journal System
Journal Information
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Q1 journal in applied linguistics
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Impact factor: 4.9 (2023)
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Indexed in Scopus and SSCI
Study Focus
Psychological factors affecting English as a Foreign Language (EFL) proficiency among Saudi undergraduate students.
We are excited to announce that Dr. Nada Alqarni from the College of Languages and Translation at King Khalid University has recently published a groundbreaking study in the high-ranking System journal.
Key Findings:
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Both FLE and PAS are significant predictors of EFL proficiency
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FLE positively influences student performance
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Moderate levels of academic stress show positive correlation with proficiency
September 11, 2024
New Study Published by Faculty Members from King Khalid University and King Faisal University in Prestigious Applied Linguistics Journal
Study Information
Authors: Prof. Fakieh Alrabai (KKU) and Dr. Abdullah Alamer (KFU)
Journal: Language Teaching Research
Impact Factor: 3.3
Ranking: 17th out of 297 in Linguistics
Research Focus
Relationship between teacher motivational strategies and second language learner achievement using Self-Determination Theory and structural equation modeling.
August 1, 2024
New Study Published by Faculty Member and PhD Student in Prestigious Applied Linguistics Journal
Publication Details
Q1
Journal Ranking
Impact Factor
3.7
SSCI Indexed
Category Ranking
10/297
Applied Linguistics
We are excited to announce that Prof. Fakieh Alrabai and Wala Algazaz, a PhD program student, have recently published a study in the esteemed journal Studies in Second Language Learning and Teaching (SSLLT).
College of Languages and Translation Releases New SJLS Journal Issue
The College of Languages and Translation has announced the publication of the latest issue of the Saudi Journal of Language Studies (SJLS). This marks the release of the 2nd issue of the 4th volume.
Featured Research Papers:
Dubbing of English Animated Series into Arabic on Shahid and Netflix: An Analysis Based on the Politeness Theory
Author: Dana Alsuhaim
Transdisciplinary Integration for Applied Linguistics: The Case of Electrophysiology
Authors: Ali H. Al-Hoorie and Ahmad Abdurrahman K. AlAwdah
Arabic Semantic Priming for Homographs Does Not Result in a Boost to All Related Material
Authors: Noura Aljadaan, Muhammad Alzaidi, and Suliman Mohammed Alnasser