Edraak K-12 platform launches free online English courses

AMMAN — The Edraak K-12 platform has launched new free online English courses for grades 7-12, which aim to help students, teachers and parents learn the English language.

Launched by Her Majesty Queen Rania in 2014, Edraak is a leading Arabic massive open online course (MOOC) platform that aims to create a “paradigm shift” in the way that education is delivered and accessed in the Arab world by providing high-quality educational experiences for both adults and students, according to a statement from the platform. 

The courses were developed in response to a “pressing need” to help students improve their English language listening, reading, writing and speaking skills through a comprehensive and engaging online learning experience, and were made possible by a grant from the Jack Ma Foundation, according to the statement.  

The smart educational interface uses numerous tools and techniques to facilitate the learning process. These include activities recognising words by their sound and practising English conversations, as well as a wide range of materials and diverse content to enhance the proficiency of English language learners, the statement said. 

Students can also practise what they learn through exercises and questions that test their understanding of the courses. 

Another useful feature of the platform is a placement test students can take that determines their current skill level before beginning a course. The test results determine the most appropriate courses for the student’s enrolment, according to the statement. Additionally, teachers can use the platform to create virtual classrooms, form a curriculum from the topics available, or follow a preset sequence. 

They can also access performance assessment tools and discover areas of improvement for students. In turn, parents can create accounts that allow them to track their children’s learning journey and provide guidance along the way.

Free online English courses for grades K-6 are expected to be launched by the middle of next year, the statement said.