Yogyakarta, September 22, 2024 – The Open Stage of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) witnessed the excitement of the “Chil‘ N’ Chill” event which successfully attracted the attention of many visitors. With a theme that carries creativity and entertainment, this event presents a variety of interesting performances that are not to be missed.

The event opened at 19.00 WIB and was immediately greeted enthusiastically by the waiting audience. One of the highlights of the evening was the collaboration “Dance x Paramadaya,” which wowed the audience with energetic dance moves from Teater Gadjah Mada, accompanied by the melodious voice of Paramadaya. This performance succeeded in creating a lively and energetic atmosphere, making many people sway.

In addition, an entertaining live band added to the lively atmosphere, making the audience sing and feel together. The monologue titled “Dunia Dubi” was also a highlight. With an emotional delivery, the monologue managed to convey a profound message, creating a moment of reflection for the audience.

The event not only offered entertainment, but also culinary delights. Various food and beverage tenants were available, adding to the convenience of visitors who wanted to enjoy the night atmosphere. Many visitors came with friends, family, and even neighbors, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere of togetherness. With such high enthusiasm, it is hoped that similar events can continue to be held to support the development of arts and culture on campus.

On September 5, 2024, a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) took place in the Conference Room 1 of the Dean’s Building of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). This event was held as part of an effort to develop an online adaptive Arabic language test instrument based on ACTFL theory using CBT (Computer-Based Testing) at Darussalam Gontor University.

The researchers from Universitas Darussalam Gontor who attended this event were Dr. Ihwan Mahmudi, Dr. Ahmad Saifulloh, Dr. Moh. Ismail, and Dr. Izzul Fatawi. They explained the linguistic test development plan that they designed to improve the quality of Arabic language teaching through an adaptive testing approach.

The event was also attended by lecturers from the Faculty of Humanities UGM who gave a warm welcome to the researchers. The discussion focused on sharing information and experiences regarding the different types of language tests that have been implemented at the Faculty of Humanities UGM. The UGM lecturers provided valuable guidance and insights on how to develop and implement effective language tests, as well as the challenges that may be faced in the process.

This collaboration between Universitas Darussalam Gontor and the UGM Faculty of Cultural Sciences is expected to produce better test instruments, which not only measure Arabic language proficiency effectively but also adapt to the needs and latest technological developments in language education. 

This activity is an important step forward in efforts to improve the quality of Arabic language learning and is expected to be a model for other institutions in the development of technology-based language tests.

Yogyakarta, September 11, 2024 – Located in the Auditorium of Soegondo Building 7th Floor, Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) hosted a visit from MAN 2 Blitar students. The event which took place from 09.00 to 11.00 am was filled with high enthusiasm from the participants.

During this visit, MAN 2 Blitar students had the opportunity to explore various information related to FIB and UGM. The material presented by the faculty covered various aspects of the available study programs, facilities, and campus life at UGM. The detailed and interactive explanation made the students very involved and excited during the event.

The discussion session became one of the most anticipated moments. The students did not hesitate to ask various relevant questions, such as information about scholarships available at UGM, average SNBP scores, and UTBK scores needed to enter the Faculty. In addition, they also asked about achievements that can be obtained through memorizing the Quran and organizational experience of UGM Faculty of Arts students. All these questions were answered directly by UGM students who shared their experiences with enthusiasm.

The visit ended with a very memorable gift. MAN 2 Blitar students donated their calligraphy works and typical Blitar food as a form of appreciation and memento for the Faculty of Arts UGM. The souvenirs were warmly received and became a symbol of the friendship that existed between the two parties. This visit is expected to strengthen the relationship between MAN 2 Blitar and UGM and provide a clearer picture of academic life and opportunities at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences UGM.

Adiba Qonita Zahroh, S.S., M.Litt., Assistant Expert at the Department of Language and Literature, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, was a presenter at the English and TOEFL ITP training activities that took place on 24-26 June 2024. This activity was conducted in a hybrid manner, combining face-to-face and online sessions, with support from Bappenas NTB.

The training aimed to improve participants’ skills in English, especially in preparation for TOEFL ITP, which includes Listening Comprehension, Structure and Writing Expression, and Reading Comprehension. The event was designed to provide in-depth understanding and effective strategies in dealing with the various components of the TOEFL ITP exam.

Participants came from various academic and professional backgrounds. Participants were given the opportunity to provide feedback on the effectiveness of the training. This evaluation aims to measure the achievement of the training objectives and determine areas that need improvement for similar activities in the future. With this training, Adiba Qonita Zahroh hopes to make a positive contribution to the participants’ preparation for the TOEFL ITP and improve their overall English language skills.

At the ‘English and TOEFL ITP Training’ activity held on 24-26 June 2024 via online yesterday, Adiba Qonita Zahroh, S.S., M.Litt., who is an Expert Assistant at the Department of Language and Literature, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, introduced a TOEFL Pocket Book. This book is specifically designed to help students, educators, and institutions in understanding and preparing for the TOEFL Institutional Testing Programme (ITP) exam.

The book, titled ‘Handbook of TOEFL ITP’, is a comprehensive guide that provides detailed information on the structure of the TOEFL ITP exam, question types, preparation strategies, as well as additional resources to ensure examinee success. ‘The purpose of this book is to provide a useful tool for those who want to better prepare for the TOEFL ITP. We hope that this book can be the main reference that facilitates the learning process and prepares test takers for the TOEFL challenge,’ said Adiba Qonita Zahroh.

This project has the support and co-operation of Bappenas NTB, demonstrating their commitment to educational development and exam quality improvement at the local level. This handbook is expected to be a valuable resource for various groups involved in TOEFL ITP preparation. With the launch of this book, Adiba Qonita Zahroh hopes to make a significant contribution towards improving TOEFL ITP exam results as well as supporting broader education efforts in the area.