Higher College of Technology

About: Higher College of Technology is a based out in . It is known for research contribution in the topics: Higher education & Tourism. The organization has 369 authors who have published 379 publications receiving 729 citations.

Approaches to Research on L2 Oral Communication

Abstract: This chapter first presents the three main approaches in studying L2 oral communication and speaking: qualitative, quantitative and mixed. It shows how the main trends in the field have shifted from a quantitative into a qualitative approach and more recently to mixed approaches. Next, the techniques used for collecting data in these different types of research are presented. The subsequent section of this chapter discusses the production and perception aspects of research on pronunciation, followed by a presentation of innovative approaches to research on pronunciation. This includes developing models which are representative of an authentic and ‘international’ accent as well as using ultrasound, as a new channel for signals, for teaching pronunciation. The concluding section of this chapter presents tasks and techniques for eliciting oral data.

Water management in mosques of Oman

Abstract: Oman is one of the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, most of the population being Muslim. It faces the severest water shortage in the world. Male Muslims are obliged to pray in mosques five times a day. Wudu (Ablution -a prescribed manner of body cleansing by water) is essential before each prayer. So, Ablution in mosques consumes the largest amount of water. Saving and reuse/recycling of ablution water will improve water management for the country and hence the region. Water conservation in mosques will also educate the population to conserve water. The main aim of this research was to explore options for improving water demand management in mosques. No empirical research has so far been reported in water management in mosques in the GCC region. The research quantified the amount of ablution water and evaluated water conservation appliances. It also explored social cultural and religious attitudes to reuse /recycle ablution water. The study used both qualitative and quantitative research techniques. Forty-one key informant interviews, 120 observations and, 120 measurements using a water-smart flow meter were carried out in the research. The research found that 7 L of water per Wudu is being consumed while it could be done with 0.6 L of water. The study found that suitable policies for water use in mosques, installation of water conservation appliances, appropriate operating water pressure and a positive attitude towards reuse/recycling of ablution water will contribute to improving water management policies and practices for mosques.