- Future Students
- Current Students
- Programs
- Programs of Study
- Undergraduate Studies
- Bachelor of General Studies
- Bachelor of Education as a Second Degree
- Minors
- Counselling and Human Development Minor
- Curriculum and Instruction Minor
- Early Learning Minor
- Educational Psychology Minor
- Learning and Developmental Disabilities Minor
- Social Justice in Education Minor
- Elementary Generalist Minor
- Environmental Education Minor
- French Education Minor
- Physical and Health Education Minor
- Secondary Mathematics Education Minor
- Secondary Teaching Minor
- Certificates
- Courses
- Teacher Education
- Professional Diplomas
- Graduate Studies
- Masters Programs
- MA, MEd in Arts Education
- MA, MEd in Counselling Psychology
- MEd in Curriculum & Instruction: Children’s and Young Adult Literature
- MEd in Curriculum & Instruction: Contemplative Inquiry & Approaches in Education
- MEd in Curriculum & Instruction: Ecological Education
- MA, MEd in Curriculum & Instruction: Educational Theory and Practice
- M.Éd. dans Curriculum & Instruction: Enseigner et apprendre en français: plurilinguismes, francophonies et éducation
- MA, MEd in Curriculum & Instruction: Equity Studies in Education
- MEd in Curriculum & Instruction: Imagination in Teaching, Schooling and Place
- MEd in Curriculum & Instruction: Innovations in Mathematics Education
- MA, MEd dans Curriculum & Instruction: l'éducation en français en contextes de diversité (campus de SFU)
- MEd in Curriculum & Instruction: Place- and Nature-Based Experiential Learning
- MEd in Curriculum & Instruction: Post-Secondary (VCC)
- MEd in Curriculum & Instruction: Science Education and Communication
- MEd in Educational Leadership: Indigenous Resurgence
- MEd in Educational Leadership: Post-Secondary (Surrey)
- MEd in Educational Leadership: Imaginative K-12 Leadership (Surrey)
- MEd in Educational Practice
- MEd in Educational Practice: Practitioner Inquiry
- MA, MEd in Educational Psychology
- MEd in Teaching Languages in Global Contexts
- MA, MEd in Educational Technology & Learning Design
- MSc, MEd in Secondary Mathematics Education
- MA, MEd in Teaching English as an Additional Language
- Doctoral Programs
- EdD in Educational Leadership: Leading for Educational Change in the Yukon
- PhD in Arts Education
- PhD in Educational Psychology
- PhD in Educational Technology & Learning Design
- PhD in Educational Theory and Practice: Curriculum and Pedagogy Stream
- PhD in Educational Theory and Practice: Philosophy of Education Stream
- PhD in Languages, Cultures and Literacies
- PhD en langues, cultures et littératies (en français)
- PhD in Mathematics Education
- Areas of Study
- Program Comparision
- Masters Programs
- Programs in French
- Faculty & Research
- Indigeneity
- Community
- About
- News & Events
- Support Us
- Instructor & Staff Resources
- Work With Us
- Contact
News
Empowering Change through Language Education: A Journey of Challenges, Resilience, and Inspiration
Mohammad Alhannash’s remarkable journey at Simon Fraser University (SFU) stands as a testament to his unwavering determination and resilience. Originally from Deir Ezzor, Syria, he had a deep passion for the English language from an early age. After completing his bachelor's degree in English and a master's degree in linguistics, Mohammad set his sights on SFU, driven by his ambitions. Though his path was not without challenges, his burning desire to enhance his language teaching skills and pursue a PhD led him on an educational adventure that would shape his future.
Mohammad’s interest in teaching blossomed during high school in Syria when he enrolled in an English language course at a private language center. It was during this transformative period that he encountered an extraordinary teacher, Mahmoud Twair, who would leave an indelible mark on his journey toward language education. Mohammad explained, "Mr. Twair's pedagogical approach was truly remarkable, characterized by its engaging and inclusive nature. It left a permanent impression on me. Under his guidance, I was able to overcome my linguistic weaknesses and capitalize on my strengths, motivating me to pursue a career in the field of language education.”
After graduating in Syria, while teaching English in Kuwait, Mohammad aspired to study in an English-speaking country. “I was intrigued by SFU’s distinguished reputation and academic offerings, particularly the Teaching Languages in a Global Context Program,” shares Mohammad.
Mohammad's decision to pursue the Teaching Languages in Global Contexts Program at SFU stemmed from his deep resonance with its distinctive focus. He explained, "What drew me to this program was its unique emphasis on language education within a global framework. I saw it as the perfect opportunity to navigate the complexities of teaching languages, especially English, in diverse and multicultural environments."
Furthermore, the program's emphasis on pedagogical approaches aligned perfectly with Mohammad's academic and professional aspirations. He eagerly anticipated gaining a comprehensive understanding of language teaching methodologies and cultivating the necessary skills to create inclusive and engaging learning environments for students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
With excitement and determination, Mohammad embarked on his educational journey and moved to Canada, fully aware of the transformative impact this program would have on his future career as a language educator.
Throughout his time at SFU, Mohammad encountered various personal and professional challenges. As he began his program, his wife had not yet joined him, leaving him as a single parent responsible for his daughter while navigating the complexities of settling down in a new country. "It was a challenging period, juggling the demands of my academic pursuits with the responsibilities of being a single parent,” Mohammad reflected.
In addition to these personal challenges, Mohammad willingly took on another significant endeavour by enrolling simultaneously in the PhD program in Languages, Cultures, and Literacies alongside his current program. This decision presented him with an intense workload and demanding academic expectations. However, driven by his determination and belief in his potential, Mohammad embraced the challenge and committed himself to succeed in both programs.
Mohammad reflected on this decision, saying, “In addition to earning a master’s degree, finishing a PhD was my main objective. It required a great commitment and willingness to make compromises to pursue two advanced degrees simultaneously.
Mohammad’s journey at SFU was not without its difficulties, both emotionally and academically, but his perseverance, time management skills, and unwavering dedication enabled him to overcome the obstacles he encountered. Throughout his academic journey, he found support from understanding tutors and friends who aided him when unexpected situations arose, allowing him to navigate these challenges while staying focused on achieving his academic goals and creating a better future for himself and his family. With graduation on the horizon, Mohammad looks back on his time at SFU with gratitude for what he overcame and the knowledge he gained. Equipped with his newfound expertise in language education and two degrees, he is now ready to make a meaningful impact as a university instructor and teacher trainer, inspiring students just as his language teacher had inspired him.
Reflecting on his journey, Mohammad offered this advice to prospective students interested in pursuing a career in language education: “Stay updated on current research, trends, and developments in pedagogical research and language teaching approaches. Reading academic journals, attending conferences, and engaging with professional communities are crucial for staying informed about best practices in the field. Equally important is to seek out practical teaching opportunities to apply classroom knowledge and gain valuable insights into the realities of language education.”