Health and Economic Crises Threaten Arab Funding for Research
The Arab region already lagged in government spending on research. Now, with oil prices in decline and Covid-19 taking hold, spending levels could fall further
Thrills and Fantasies: Lighter Reading for a Summer of Disruption
Here’s a recommended reading list of lighter works to take your mind off Covid-19. Many are inspired by the broad sweep of history across the Middle East and North Africa.
How One Arab Arts Festival Transformed Itself to Save Its Season
When it looked like Covid-19 might force it to cancel, the Liverpool Arab Arts Festival got creative. Nearly all its events will go ahead in digital formats.
Across the Arab Region, Covid-19 Has Scrambled Scientists’ Plans
Arab researchers have changed gears to find a way to help fight Covid-19 or understand its impact.
How Can We Create an Enriching Classroom Experience With Online Learning?
The abrupt switch to online classes after the Covid-19 crisis was an emergency fix. Now we need to think in a more focused way about how to keep the benefits of online learning without sacrificing human connections.
Will the Coronavirus Pandemic Help Reform Arab Higher Education?
While not diminishing the many difficulties in the crash transition to distance learning, many Arab educators also see an upside.
Where to Find Advice for Building Better Courses Online
The emergency adaptation of online learning during the coronavirus crisis left little time for reflection on best practices. Here is a sampling of resources for instructors who want more guidance.
A Quarantine Reading List: Escapist Nonfiction from the Arab World
Readers who need a break from news of Covid-19 and chronicles of disease may find welcome relief in these books from the Middle East and North Africa.
Arab Universities Struggle With Final Exams and Reopening Decisions
The Covid-19 pandemic forced Arab universities to hastily shift classes online–or in some cases shut down completely. Now they need to assess learning and decide how to safely re-open.
The Shift to Online Education in the Arab World Is Intensifying Inequality
The attempted shift to online learning during the novel coronavirus pandemic is increasing inequality in access to education. In some countries, professors and students are suggesting online education be halted altogether.
