Dr West's Contributions to SAALT Conference 2024: A Proud Moment for Our Department

This past week, Dr West played a pivotal role in the SAALT Conference 2024, not only as an Executive Member of the South African Association for Language Teaching (SAALT) but also as a distinguished presenter. Her contributions were multifaceted and deeply impactful, reflecting her dedication to advancing the field of language education.

Organising Excellence
As an Executive Member of SAALT, Dr West was instrumental in organising this year's conference. Her leadership and organisational skills ensured a seamless and enriching experience for all attendees, fostering an environment of intellectual exchange and collaboration.

Advancing Research on Text Difficulty Measures
Dr West presented research on both qualitative and quantitative measures of text difficulty. Her presentation delved into how readability affects the reliability and validity of reading comprehension tests. By highlighting these critical aspects, Dr West underscored the importance of selecting appropriate texts to ensure accurate assessment and effective instruction in reading.

Debating Text Difficulty in African Languages
In addition to her insightful presentation, Dr West initiated a vital debate on potential text difficulty measures in African languages. This discussion is crucial for developing culturally and linguistically appropriate educational resources. Dr West is contributing to the creation of more inclusive and effective language instruction methodologies.

As a department, we take pride in Dr West's pioneering work and her commitment to improving language education. Her contributions to the SAALT Conference 2024 exemplify her dedication to research excellence and her passion for enhancing reading comprehension and instruction quality. 

Dr West's work continues to inspire educators and researchers alike, fostering a community dedicated to the advancement of language teaching and learning.