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Assalamualaikum

I'm Md Ariful Hasan

An educator and researcher

Prospective PhD Candidate
  • Age 37
  • Address F4, University of Creative Technology, Chittagong, BD-4212
  • E-mail arif692926@gmail.com
  • Phone +8801911692926
  • Teaching from 01 December, 2010
  • On Vacation N/A

Md Ariful Hasan is an English Language and Literature teacher. He has done his CELTA course at Cambridge University in 2018. Before that, Mr Hasan did his Bachelor and Masters in English from Jagannath University. Currently, he is pursuing his second Masters in English Language Teaching at Kathmandu University. Md Ariful Hasan is an alumnus of the US Dept International Exchange Programme. At present, he is working for the University of Creative Technology Chittagong and skillUP Centre.

From the Blog

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Empowering Scholars: A Journey Through STAR SCHOLARS NETWORK's Academic Communication Training


Date: September 30, 2023

Platform: Google Classroom, Zoom
Oraganization: STAR SCHOLARS NETWORK & TRIBHUVAN UNIVERSITY

In the realm of academia, effective communication is not just a skill; it is a cornerstone for success. Recognizing this, STAR SCHOLARS NETWORK and TU GLOBAL INITIATIVE joined forces to orchestrate a transformative 6-week training program titled "EFFECTIVE ACADEMIC COMMUNICATION: ENGLISH FOR SCHOLARS." This endeavor, which unfolded from August to September 2023, marked the second achievement in collaboration with STAR SCHOLARS NETWORK.

The driving force behind this initiative was the collective vision to enhance the academic communication skills of scholars, equipping them with the tools needed to navigate the global landscape of research, collaboration, and knowledge dissemination. The program brought together a cadre of experienced and dedicated facilitators, each contributing a unique perspective to the comprehensive training.

Among the esteemed facilitators were Assistant Professor Bal Ram Duwal, Assistant Professor Bandana Jain, Lecturer Bhagawaty Kalikotay, Assistant Professor Keshu Pant, and Lecturer Sanita Mastran, all from Tribhuvan University. Their collective expertise provided a solid foundation for participants to build upon, ensuring a holistic understanding of academic communication strategies.

Further enriching the program were international contributors, including Professor Dora Hernandez from Universidad Nacional, Professor Rafael Espinoza also from Universidad Nacional, Associate Professor Shyam Sharma from the State University of New York in Stony Brook, and Associate Professor Mohammad Shamsuzzzman from the Department of English and Modern Languages at North South University, Bangladesh. This diverse lineup of facilitators brought a global perspective to the training, emphasizing the universality of effective academic communication skills.

The curriculum of the training spanned a range of topics crucial to scholarly success. From mastering the intricacies of written communication to honing presentation skills, participants were guided through a journey that transcended geographical boundaries. The training also delved into the nuances of cross-cultural communication, acknowledging the importance of navigating diverse academic landscapes.

As participants immersed themselves in this enriching experience, they not only gained valuable insights into the art of academic communication but also forged connections with like-minded scholars from different corners of the world. The collaborative atmosphere fostered by the program laid the groundwork for future research collaborations and cross-cultural dialogues.

The success of this initiative is a testament to the dedication of both the organizers and facilitators, as well as the commitment of the scholars who actively participated. As the 6-week training drew to a close, it marked not just the end of a program but the beginning of a new chapter for the scholars involved — a chapter characterized by enhanced communication skills, a global perspective, and a network of colleagues and mentors.

In conclusion, the "EFFECTIVE ACADEMIC COMMUNICATION: ENGLISH FOR SCHOLARS" training stands as a beacon of empowerment for scholars aspiring to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields. STAR SCHOLARS NETWORK and TU GLOBAL INITIATIVE have once again demonstrated their commitment to advancing academic excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the scholarly journey of those fortunate enough to be a part of this transformative experience.

Navigating the Horizon of Professional Growth: Reflections on BELTA National Conference 2023


Date: November 25, 2023
Location: Jashore University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh

On a crisp November morning at Jashore University of Science and Technology, the halls buzzed with scholarly energy as English educators and enthusiasts gathered for the BELTA National Conference 2023. Among the distinguished presentations, I had the privilege of sharing my insights in a proposal titled "Exploring the Professional Growth of New English Instructors at Private Universities of Bangladesh." The conference, a melting pot of ideas, provided a platform for educators to exchange knowledge, fostering a community dedicated to advancing language education.


Scheduled at 10:50 am in room 511, I took the stage, navigating through the nuances of my proposal within the allocated 20 minutes. The session was chaired by the competent Assistant Professor Ms. Farhana Yeasmin from the English Department at JUST. Alongside me, Assistant Professor Sumona Rani Saha delivered her paper, contributing to the diverse tapestry of discussions.


A highlight of the event was the keynote speech by the esteemed Professor Dr. Rubina Khan, a luminary from the Department of English at Dhaka University. Dr. Khan illuminated various paths of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) that could enrich teaching and learning pedagogy within the local context. Her insights served as guiding beacons for educators striving for excellence in their profession.

Credit is due to the visionary leadership of Professor Dr. Md. Munibur Rahman, whose dedication to his department and meticulous organization skills culminated in the success of the event. The conference not only served as a platform for academic exchange but also facilitated unexpected reunions, such as the impromptu KUSOED gathering, where I had the pleasure of reconnecting with old friends like Krishna Dutta, Sumon Roy, and Mahfujur Rahman.

In the spirit of reunion, I couldn't help but imagine the joy Dr. Laxman Gnawali would have felt if Ashraful Wadud and Ziaul Karim had joined the event. The conference wasn't confined to physical interactions; it transcended the boundaries of the conference hall and reached into the virtual space, bringing together friends on Facebook for meaningful conversations.

Special mentions are warranted for individuals whose contributions added layers of richness to the event. Asst Professor Md Abdul Halim (JUST), Dr. Azran Azmee Kafia (IU), Associate Professor Mohammed Mokarrom Hossain Latifee (PUST), Assistant Professor Golam Mohiuddin (GUB), and Assistant Teacher (English) Md Shofiul Basher Chowdhury (Hazaribag Girls High School & College) played integral roles in shaping the vibrant tapestry of the conference.

The warm hospitality extended by the JUST team deserves commendation, reflecting the humility instilled by their mentors. As the conference concluded, gratitude was extended to the BELTA President, Professor Ahmed Bashir (Department of English, DU), and the General Secretary, Dr. Mohib Ullah (Department of English, IIUC), for their pivotal roles in orchestrating a successful event.


In retrospect, the BELTA National Conference 2023 was not merely a convergence of ideas; it was a celebration of the shared passion for English education, a testament to the dedication of educators, and a beacon lighting the way for continuous professional growth in the ever-evolving landscape of language instruction in Bangladesh.





Saturday, October 21, 2023

Tips & Tricks on How to do well in IELTS Listening Test



Tips and Tricks for IELTS Listening:

**1. ** Familiarize Yourself with the Format:

The IELTS Listening test consists of four sections with a total of 40 questions.

The recordings are played only once, so concentration is key.

**2. ** Practice Regularly:

Regular practice with sample tests and recordings can improve your listening skills significantly.

Use various IELTS preparation resources available online.

**3. ** Develop Your Listening Skills:

Listen to a variety of English materials, such as podcasts, movies, and news, to enhance your understanding of different accents and contexts.

**4. ** Predict the Answers:

Before listening to the recording, read the questions and try to predict what kind of information you need to listen for.

Focus on keywords in the questions.

**5. ** Use the Time Given:

You have time to read the questions before each section begins. Utilize this time to familiarize yourself with the context of the conversation.

**6. ** Pay Attention to Instructions:

Listening for instructions is crucial. If you miss an instruction, you might answer the questions incorrectly.

**7. ** Beware of Spelling and Grammar:

Spelling and grammar must be accurate. Check your spelling carefully, especially for names, places, and uncommon words.

**8. ** Practice Note-Taking:

Practice taking notes while listening. Summarize key points, and use abbreviations to write quickly.

**9. ** Focus on Different Accents:

IELTS Listening tests may include different accents, such as British, American, Australian, and Canadian. Familiarize yourself with these accents through practice.

**10. ** Watch Out for Synonyms:

Answers might not appear exactly as they are in the recording. Be prepared for synonyms or paraphrased versions of the information in the questions.

**11. ** Answer Every Question:

There's no penalty for wrong answers, so attempt every question even if you're not sure. You might get it right!

**12. ** Manage Your Time:

Be mindful of the time. You won’t have extra time at the end to transfer your answers, so write your answers directly on the question paper.

**13. ** Review Your Answers:

If time allows, review your answers. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes, and ensure you have answered all the questions.

**14. ** Stay Calm and Focused:

Don’t panic if you miss an answer. Stay calm and concentrate on the next question. Panicking can lead to more mistakes.

**15. ** Simulate Exam Conditions:

Practice under exam conditions. Try to simulate the actual test environment to get accustomed to the pressure and time constraints.

Remember, consistent practice, active listening, and attention to detail are the keys to performing well in the IELTS Listening test. Good luck!

Tuesday, August 15, 2023

Most Users To Complete A Remote 50 KM Bike Ride in 24 Hours || Guiness World Record




I'm honored to be an Official participant in the "Most Users To Complete A Remote 50 KM Bike Ride in 24 Hours" Guinness World Records attempt with Pedal Gang.

In this attempt, I rode 50 km on my bike on 19th May 2023 organized by Pedal Gang. There were more than 3500 participants from Bangladesh. It always feels good to take some challenge and win it.
 

Saturday, August 12, 2023

A 3-Month Academic IELTS Exam Preparation Plan

A 3-Month Academic IELTS Exam Preparation Plan

Preparation for the Academic IELTS exam is essential as it familiarizes candidates with the exam's format, assesses and enhances language proficiency, refines task-specific skills, and improves time management. Effective preparation builds confidence, reduces anxiety, and provides diagnostic insights into strengths and weaknesses. It equips candidates with test-taking strategies, aids in practicing essential skills for listening, reading, writing, and speaking sections, and increases the likelihood of achieving desired scores for academic and professional pursuits. In a competitive environment, thorough preparation ensures candidates are well-equipped to excel in each component of the exam, optimizing their chances of success.

Month 1: Building Foundation

Weeks 1-2: Listening and Reading Focus

Day 1-14 (Week 1-2)

Evening (1 hour)

  • 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Review IELTS listening strategies and techniques.
  • 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Complete one IELTS listening section, focusing on improving your note-taking skills.

Night (1 hour)

  • 9:00 PM - 9:45 PM: Work on IELTS reading strategies and skim through a reading passage.
  • 9:45 PM - 10:00 PM: Take a short break.
  • 10:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Practice another IELTS reading passage, this time focusing on detailed understanding and answering questions.

Weeks 3-4: Speaking and Writing Focus

Day 15-28 (Week 3-4)

Evening (1 hour)

  • 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Study IELTS speaking tips and practice speaking fluently on general topics.
  • 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Record yourself responding to sample IELTS speaking questions. Listen and identify areas for improvement.

Night (1 hour)

  • 9:00 PM - 9:45 PM: Learn IELTS writing task 1 strategies and practice describing graphs, charts, or diagrams.
  • 9:45 PM - 10:00 PM: Take a short break.

Late Night (1 hour)

  • 10:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Focus on IELTS writing task 2. Practice outlining and writing essay responses to various prompts.

Month 2: Skill Refinement

Weeks 5-6: Comprehensive Practice

Day 29-56 (Week 5-8)

Evening (1 hour)

  • 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Listen to a recorded lecture or conversation, take notes, and answer related questions.

Night (1 hour)

  • 9:00 PM - 9:45 PM: Read an academic article or passage, and answer comprehension questions.
  • 9:45 PM - 10:00 PM: Take a short break.

Late Night (1 hour)

  • 10:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Practice speaking exercises with a partner or by recording yourself. Focus on articulation, fluency, and vocabulary.

Weeks 7-8: Writing Refinement

Day 43-56 (Week 7-8)

Evening (1 hour)

  • 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Review grammar and vocabulary for writing tasks.
  • 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Write essays for IELTS writing task 2 prompts, focusing on coherent arguments and clear structure.

Night (1 hour)

  • 9:00 PM - 9:45 PM: Review sample IELTS writing task 1 responses and practice summarizing visual data accurately.
  • 9:45 PM - 10:00 PM: Take a short break.

Late Night (1 hour)

  • 10:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Continue practicing speaking exercises and recording yourself.

Month 3: Mock Tests and Final Refinement

Weeks 9-12: Mock Tests and Final Touches

Day 57-90 (Week 9-12)

Evening (1 hour)

  • 7:00 PM - 7:45 PM: Complete a full IELTS listening section under timed conditions and review your answers.
  • 7:45 PM - 8:00 PM: Review key vocabulary or concepts.

Night (1 hour)

  • 9:00 PM - 9:45 PM: Complete a full IELTS reading section under timed conditions and assess your performance.
  • 9:45 PM - 10:00 PM: Take a short break.

Late Night (1 hour)

  • 10:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Take a full IELTS practice test, including all sections. Review your answers and identify areas for improvement.

Note: Adjust the schedule as needed to ensure it fits well with your energy levels and commitments. Consistency and focus are key to success in your IELTS preparation. Good luck!

Tuesday, August 8, 2023

My Last Duchess by Robert Browning | English Poem Analysis


Introduction:

"My Last Duchess" is a dramatic monologue written by Robert Browning, a prominent English poet of the Victorian era. This poem is a powerful exploration of themes such as power, jealousy, control, and art. It offers a glimpse into the mind of a duke as he reveals his thoughts and feelings about his late wife, the Duchess.

Summary:

The poem is set in Renaissance Italy and is presented as a conversation between the Duke and a visitor. The Duke shows the visitor a portrait of his late wife, the Duchess, and begins to narrate the story behind the painting. He reveals his jealousy and possessiveness, suggesting that the Duchess was too friendly and naive, which he perceived as flirtatious behavior. The Duke's anger and desire for control are evident as he talks about the Duchess's supposed faults and ultimately hints at her tragic fate.

Themes:

Power and Control: The Duke's need for control over the Duchess's behavior reflects the power dynamics in their relationship. He seeks to control her actions, and his possessiveness leads to her tragic end.

Jealousy and Insecurity: The Duke's jealousy stems from his own insecurities and the fear of losing his wife's attention and affection to others.

Art and Representation: The painting of the Duchess becomes a symbol of how art can capture and freeze a moment in time, representing her beauty, personality, and ultimately her death.

Social Status and Marriage: The poem delves into the societal expectations and norms of marriage during the Renaissance era, highlighting the challenges of maintaining status and reputation.

Literary Devices:

Dramatic Monologue: The entire poem is spoken by the Duke, providing insight into his thoughts, emotions, and motivations.

Irony: The reader can infer the Duke's hypocrisy and lack of self-awareness as he fails to realize his own flaws while criticizing the Duchess.

Imagery: Browning uses vivid imagery to create a visual representation of the Duchess, the painting, and the opulent surroundings.

Discussion Points:

  • Analyze the Duke's character: Explore his personality, motivations, and psychological complexity.
  • Gender dynamics: Discuss the role of women in the poem, the Duchess's agency, and the implications of the Duke's views on women.
  • Art and representation: Examine how the painting serves as both a representation of the Duchess and a reflection of the Duke's attitude.
  • The use of language: Analyze Browning's use of language, tone, and poetic techniques to convey the Duke's emotions and perspective.
  • Social context: Consider the historical and cultural context of the Renaissance period and its impact on the characters and themes.

Conclusion:

"My Last Duchess" is a captivating poem that delves into the complexities of human nature, power dynamics, and the intricacies of relationships. Robert Browning's skillful use of the dramatic monologue form allows readers to explore the mind of the Duke and uncover the deeper meanings within the text, making it a thought-provoking piece for literary analysis and discussion.

References:

  1. Browning, Robert. "My Last Duchess." Poetry Foundation, https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43768/my-last-duchess.
  2. Oxford English Dictionary. "Dramatic Monologue." Oxford University Press, 2021.
  3. Howell, Christine. "Marriage and Class in Robert Browning's 'My Last Duchess'." Victorian Poetry, vol. 33, no. 4, 1995, pp. 533-547.

Introductory Questions for English Speaking Practice

Introductory questions are questions that are used to initiate a conversation, establish rapport, and gather basic information about a person. They are commonly used in social interactions and are designed to be open-ended, encouraging the other person to share more about themselves. Introductory questions help break the ice and create a comfortable atmosphere for further conversation.

Personal Background:

  1. Can you tell me a little about yourself?
  2. Where are you from originally?
  3. What is your hometown like?
  4. Have you lived in any other places?
  5. What do you like the most about your country?
  6. What languages do you speak?
  7. Do you have any siblings?
  8. Are you currently studying or working?
Hobbies and Interests:

  1. What do you like to do in your free time?
  2. Do you have any hobbies or interests?
  3. Are you into any sports?
  4. How do you like to relax?
  5. Do you enjoy reading? What kind of books do you like?
  6. What type of movies or TV shows do you enjoy?
  7. Are you a music lover? What genres do you prefer?
  8. Do you like to travel? Where have you been?

Daily Routine:

  1. What does a typical day in your life look like?
  2. When do you usually wake up in the morning?
  3. How do you start your day?
  4. What's your favorite time of day?
  5. What do you usually have for breakfast?
  6. How do you usually spend your evenings?
  7. Do you have any evening rituals?

Preferences and Opinions:

  1. Do you prefer city life or country life?
  2. What kind of weather do you like?
  3. Are you a morning person or a night owl?
  4. What's your favorite season?
  5. Do you enjoy trying new foods?
  6. How do you feel about social media?
  7. Are you a planner or do you prefer spontaneity?
  8. Do you like to cook?

Family and Relationships:

  1. Tell me about your family members.
  2. Who are you closest to in your family?
  3. Do you have a best friend? How did you meet?
  4. Are you in a relationship?
  5. What qualities do you value in a friend?
  6. Do you have any pets?

Travel and Culture:

  1. Have you ever lived abroad?
  2. What countries have you visited?
  3. What's your favorite place you've traveled to?
  4. Are you interested in learning about other cultures?
  5. What's the most interesting cultural experience you've had?
  6. Do you celebrate any traditional holidays?
  7. What's your favorite type of cuisine?

Education and Career:

  1. What are you studying or what is your profession?
  2. Why did you choose your field of study or career?
  3. What do you hope to achieve in your studies or career?
  4. Are there any challenges you've faced in your educational or professional journey?
  5. What skills have you gained from your studies or work?
  6. How do you stay motivated in your studies or job?

Technology and Media:

  1. How do you use technology in your daily life?
  2. What social media platforms do you use?
  3. Do you follow any influencers or celebrities online?
  4. How do you stay updated with current events?
  5. What's your opinion on the impact of technology on society?
  6. Do you enjoy watching online videos or streaming content?
  7. Have you ever created any digital content?

Health and Lifestyle:

  1. How do you stay healthy?
  2. Do you have any fitness routines or exercise regimens?
  3. What's your approach to a balanced diet?
  4. Are you involved in any wellness practices like meditation or yoga?
  5. How do you manage stress?
  6. What do you do to relax and unwind?

Goals and Aspirations:

  1. What are your short-term goals?
  2. Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
  3. Do you have any long-term aspirations?
  4. Are there any skills you want to develop?
  5. What's something you'd like to achieve that you haven't yet?

Creativity and Art:

  1. Are you into any form of creative expression like painting, drawing, or writing?
  2. Have you ever attended art exhibitions or performances?
  3. What kind of art do you enjoy?
  4. Do you have a favorite artist or writer?
  5. How do you feel about expressing yourself creatively?

Nature and Environment:

  1. Do you enjoy spending time outdoors?
  2. What's your favorite outdoor activity?
  3. Are you concerned about environmental issues?
  4. How do you contribute to protecting the environment?
  5. Do you like gardening or being in nature?

Social Issues and Volunteering:

  1. Are there any social causes that are important to you?
  2. Have you ever volunteered for a charitable organization?
  3. How do you think individuals can make a positive impact on society?
  4. What's a recent act of kindness you've witnessed or been a part of?

Personal Development:

  1. How do you work on improving yourself?
  2. Do you set personal goals for self-improvement?
  3. Are there any books or resources you've found particularly helpful?
  4. What's the most valuable lesson you've learned so far?
  5. How do you handle challenges and setbacks?

Future Plans:

  1. Where do you hope to be in terms of your career or studies in ten years?
  2. Do you have any travel destinations you want to visit in the future?
  3. What do you envision for your personal life down the road?

Random Questions:

  1. If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
  2. What's your favorite type of cuisine to cook or eat?
  3. If you could meet any historical figure, who would it be?
  4. What's a hidden talent that not many people know about?
  5. If you could live in any time period, when would it be and why?
  6. Do you have any phobias or fears?
  7. What's the most exciting thing you've ever done?
  8. How do you handle change or adapt to new situations?
  9. What's a dream you've always had but haven't pursued yet?
  10. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

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If you need professional assistance or have interest in collarborative research feel free to contact.

  • F4, Department of English Language and Literature, University of Creative Technology Chittagong, Bahardharhat, Bangladesh
  • +8801911692926, ++88-031-2555721-24 (Ext 420)
  • arif692926@gmail.com, arif692926@uctc.edu.bd
  • https://www.uctc.edu.bd/ell/profile/2003001