1. Dialect & Curriculum
What is the best way to learn the Levantine (Jordanian) dialect for non-native speakers?
The best way is through a contextual, communicative approach that connects the language to daily life. At Misbah Center, we rely on intensive conversation programs and real-world scenarios, backed by our exclusive "Amman Series" curriculum. This allows students to practice the language directly in the streets and in daily interactions from week one.
Do I need to learn Modern Standard Arabic (Fusha) before learning the colloquial dialect?
No, it is not necessary. If your primary goal is daily communication, living in Jordan, or interacting with locals and the job market, you can start learning the colloquial dialect directly. Our programs are designed to help absolute beginners speak fluently from scratch without requiring prior knowledge of Fusha.
What is the difference between the Jordanian dialect and other Levantine dialects (Syrian, Lebanese, Palestinian)?
Levantine dialects are very close and fully mutually intelligible. The Jordanian dialect (especially the urban Amman dialect) acts as a flexible, widely understood bridge across the Levant and the wider Arab world, making it the perfect starting point for any foreigner.
How long does it take to speak the Jordanian dialect fluently?
An average student typically takes 3 to 6 months of regular study and practice to reach an intermediate level, which allows them to manage daily conversations with confidence. Engaging in our language exchange clubs can significantly accelerate this timeline.
Does the curriculum use Arabic script or Latin letters (Arabizi)?
We primarily rely on the Arabic script to ensure proper foundation and correct reading. However, we use transliteration (Latin letters) as a visual aid for absolute beginners in the early stages to facilitate quick pronunciation before fully mastering reading.
How does learning the colloquial dialect help me integrate into Jordanian society?
Colloquial Arabic is the language of daily life, emotions, and trade in Jordan. Speaking the local dialect breaks cultural barriers instantly, earns you a warm welcome from the community, and allows you to understand deep cultural nuances not taught in traditional Fusha textbooks.
Does the dialect of Amman differ from the rest of the provinces in Jordan?
There are minor differences in pronunciation or vocabulary between cities, rural areas, and the badia. However, Misbah Center focuses on the 'White Amman Dialect', which is the modern urban dialect understood and used in media, official transactions, and daily life across the Kingdom.
Does the center teach a 'White Dialect' understood in all Arab countries?
Yes, the focus is on the White Levantine dialect. It is a flexible communication language free from overly complex local terms, making a Misbah Center student capable of communicating smoothly with anyone from Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, or even Egypt and the Gulf.
What is the "Amman Series" for learning Arabic, and who is it designed for?
The "Amman Series" is an exclusive and comprehensive curriculum developed by Misbah Center. It is specifically designed for foreign students, diplomats, and expats residing in Jordan, focusing on mimicking real life, daily situations, and the rich culture of Amman.
How many books are in the 'Amman Series' and what levels do they cover?
The series includes 11 progressive educational books, covering all levels from Absolute Beginner (who doesn't know the alphabet) to very Advanced levels that enable students to discuss political, social, and cultural topics fluently.
Does the 'Amman Series' focus on conversation or grammar?
The series focuses primarily and practically on conversation and listening skills (effective communication). Grammar is introduced 'functionally', meaning students learn the rule to serve the sentence and daily conversation without getting bogged down in dry grammatical theory.
How can I get the 'Amman Series' books if I am outside Jordan?
Misbah Center provides international shipping for printed books. Interactive digital copies are also available for students taking our courses online, ensuring the material reaches every student anywhere in the world.
Does the curriculum include real-life situations from daily life in Amman?
Yes, absolutely. Lessons are built around real scenarios such as: talking to a taxi driver, shopping in Downtown (Al-Balad), ordering food at local restaurants, visiting the doctor, and renting an apartment in Amman, making learning 100% practical.
Are there audio or visual materials accompanying the curriculum?
Yes, supported by modern tools, the 'Amman Series' includes high-quality audio recordings and video clips that mimic the natural pronunciation of locals, helping students develop listening skills and understand fast speech outside class hours.
How do I choose the right level for me in the Amman Series?
Before starting, students take a precise placement test (oral and written) supervised by one of our specialized teachers. Based on the results, they are accurately guided to the book and level that matches their current skills.
Is the series suitable for heritage children or adults only?
The series is originally designed for adults and young professionals. However, thanks to its interactive and engaging storytelling approach, we have modified, simplified tracks of the series suitable for expat children to connect them to their native country's dialect and culture.
Does the series support student self-assessment?
Yes, each book features comprehensive reviews, checklists, and short quizzes at the end of units and books, allowing students to measure their retention of new vocabulary and structures and monitor their own progress.
What makes the 'Amman Series' different from other commercial curricula?
Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it is not just a translation of words; it is the product of over 15 years of teaching experience. The series is alive, constantly updated to reflect actual terms used today in the Jordanian street, combining structural precision with cultural fun.
Is there a digital version (PDF) of the curriculum?
Yes, we provide our registered students with our protected, interactive digital version, allowing them to browse the material, solve exercises, and listen to attached audio files easily via tablets and computers.
How does the 'Amman Series' serve diplomats and international organization workers?
The advanced parts of the series dedicate sections to formal terms, reporting language, and daily correspondence that diplomats or NGO workers need in Jordan to understand the work environment and interact with local partners confidently.
2. Courses & Pricing
What types of courses are available at Misbah Center?
We offer diverse programs including intensive in-person courses and online classes. Courses are divided into private (one-on-one) lessons tailored to specific needs, or small group classes to enhance social interaction and cultural practice.
Does the center offer private (One-on-One) lessons or groups?
Yes, we offer both options. Private lessons are ideal for those looking for a fast, customized learning pace for professional or personal goals, while groups provide a vibrant, fun environment to practice conversation with peers of various nationalities.
How many students are in a group class?
To maintain quality education and give each student an adequate opportunity to speak and participate, the number of students in a single group does not exceed 3 to 5 students maximum.
What is the duration of a single educational course?
The duration of a standard course per level ranges between 30 to 40 credit hours, distributed over weeks according to the nature of the program (intensive or regular) to ensure adequate assimilation and practice.
Are course schedules flexible for working professionals and diplomats?
Yes, absolutely. We provide highly flexible schedules including morning and evening slots after official working hours, as well as weekend options to accommodate the busy schedules of professionals and diplomats in Amman and abroad.
Does the center offer intensive programs?
Yes, we have intensive programs designed specifically for students and researchers visiting Jordan for short periods, where the student studies 3 to 5 hours a day to achieve a major leap in their language level within a few weeks.
What is the cost of studying Arabic at Misbah Center?
The cost varies based on the type of program (private or group) and the mode of study (in-person or online). We offer competitive, well-studied rates given the quality of exclusive materials and our teachers' extensive experience. Please contact us for the updated price list.
Are there discounts for groups, corporations, or organizations?
Yes, Misbah Center offers special corporate rates and promotional discounts for family groups, embassy staff, corporate employees, and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in Jordan.
How can I register and pay for the course fees?
Registration is very easy by filling out the online form on our website. As for payment, it can be completed through several secure methods including: cash at the center, bank transfer, credit cards, or via e-wallets.
Is there a placement test before starting, and how much does it cost?
Yes, a placement test is mandatory to ensure the student is placed in the correct learning environment. This test is provided by the center completely free of charge for all students wishing to register with us.
What happens if I miss a lecture?
In private lessons, a makeup class can be arranged provided the management is notified well in advance. In our groups, the teacher sends a lesson summary and assignments to the absent student to ensure they do not fall behind their peers.
Can I change the time of my private lesson?
Yes, we understand our students' urgent commitments; therefore, the private lesson system allows flexibility to adjust schedules in direct coordination with the administration and the teacher 24 hours before the lesson time.
Are there courses tailored for specific sectors (like Arabic for Business or Diplomacy)?
Yes, we excel in designing specialized linguistic tracks; such as 'Arabic for Business', 'Arabic for Diplomats', and 'Arabic for Humanitarian Workers', focusing on vocabulary and professional contexts needed in their careers.
What qualifications do Misbah Center teachers have?
Our team includes a select group of qualified Jordanian teachers who hold long experiences exceeding 15 years in teaching Arabic and the Levantine dialect to non-native speakers, following the latest interactive strategies.
Do the teachers speak other languages (like English) to help beginners?
Yes, our teachers are highly fluent in English and other languages, which facilitates communication and explanation in beginner levels to break the ice and accurately clarify linguistic differences for the student.
Are there dedicated courses for children from non-Arabic backgrounds?
Yes, we provide specialized programs for children relying on games, stories, and engaging interactive activities, enabling them to pick up vocabulary and speak spontaneously without getting bored by dry academic styles.
Can I try a free trial lesson before committing to payment?
Yes, we are pleased to offer a short advisory and trial session completely free of charge online or at the center, so the student can get to know the teacher's style, the nature of the curriculum, and experience our unique environment before registering.
What is the cancellation and refund policy?
We adopt a flexible and fair cancellation policy; fees can be fully refunded or postponed to a later date if the cancellation request is made within the specified period before the course starts, as detailed in the registration form."
Does the center provide a certified certificate after completing the course?
Yes, upon successfully passing the course requirements and attending the prescribed hours, each student receives a certified completion certificate from Misbah Center proving their language level and the modules covered.
How is a student's progress measured during the course?
Progress is measured continuously through daily interactive activities, short weekly conversation tests, and a comprehensive assessment (oral and written) at the end of the level to transition to the next with confidence.
3. Online Learning
Does Misbah Center offer online classes?
Yes, we have an integrated educational platform offering fully interactive online programs, allowing you to learn the Jordanian and Levantine dialect from your home or office anywhere in the world with quality matching physical classrooms.
What platforms are used to deliver online lessons?
We use advanced and stable video communication applications such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet to ensure crystal clear audio and video, alongside easy screen and material sharing.
Are online lessons live or pre-recorded?
All our online classes are 100% live and direct, connecting you face-to-face with the teacher. This allows for instant interaction, immediate questions, and real-time pronunciation and conversation correction.
How are learning materials provided to online students?
Online students receive protected, interactive digital copies of our exclusive 'Amman Series' and learning materials, along with interactive files, audio recordings, and electronic flashcards matted to each lesson.
Are online lessons as effective as in-person classes?
Yes, absolutely. Thanks to our modern interactive methods, technology integration, and language games, students find online lessons highly engaging, efficient, and ideal for those constrained by time or distance.
How do you handle time zone differences for international students?
Our center operates across wide hours of the day. This enables us to schedule and coordinate classes to perfectly fit the student's local time zone, whether they reside in the US, Europe, or East Asia.
What are the technical requirements to attend online classes?
It only requires a computer or tablet equipped with a good camera and microphone, alongside a stable and fast internet connection that supports video streaming without interruptions.
Can I combine in-person and online study?
Yes, we offer a hybrid study system; you can start your study in-person at our center during your visit to Jordan, and seamlessly continue subsequent levels online with the same teacher upon returning to your home country.
Is technical support available if a glitch occurs during an online class?
Yes, the technical support team at Misbah Center is always available to assist students and resolve any technical issues they might face during connections or while browsing digital materials to ensure smooth sessions."
How do online students practice conversation interactively?
We provide online students with excellent interactive spaces, including breakout rooms for paired conversations, digital simulation projects, and the ability to join our remote 'Language Exchange Club' to practice with native speakers.