The Expression of Religious Positivity in Karen Armstrong’s Sīrah Work

Orientalists contributed much regarding their study of the Holy Qur’ān, Hadith and Sīrah since eighteenth century. Few of them attracted Muslim scholars due to the quality of their work about Islam, like the translation of the Holy Qur’ān, the indexes of Hadith literature and the translations of Arabic Sīrah books in English. These orientalists have left a positive impression regarding their contributions in introducing Islamic literature in West in their native languages. This research paper aims to present the expression of religious positivity in modern orientalist Karen Armstrong’s Sīrah work. This selection is based on the status of this Sīrah writer in present time. Her books are best sellers written on comparative religion and a huge number of people study her books and appreciate her for expressing the positive image of Islam in West. In this study, it will be found out that in which style and angle she has presented her works regarding religious positivity especially the presentation of the personality of the Holy Prophet (peace be on him) to the non-Muslims and non-religious societies.

A Learner Model for Localized and Adaptable E-Learning

The advancement in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has provided new opportunities in teaching and learning in the form of e-learning. Besides, the availability of opportunities, challenges are also coming in its way. The development of such models in distance learning environment of a developing country like Pakistan is a real challenge. These challenges require specialized content, accommodating profiles of local learners, ups and down of available ICT infrastructure and socio cultural norms. The adaptability in e-learning may be used to address many of these challenges and issues. The concept of e-learning with adaptable features for local learners is the central component of the research reported in this study. The thesis presents a learner model for adaptable e-learning in compliance with the International standards and also addresses localized parameters. The thesis explores important components of adaptable e-learning in the light of theoretical and practical approaches. It also highlights the issues of e-learning in developing countries especially Pakistan. A survey of students was conducted to identify local learning conditions and learner’s profiles, preferences and their individual learning styles. These parameters were considered for the design, development, and delivery of adaptable e-learning model. The conceptual framework highlights the layered model of adaptable e-learning with knowledge level of learners as the foundation layer. The foundation layer is derived from the four components of learner model of adaptable e-learning i.e. domain, program pedagogy, student model and technology interface. The model has been implemented on a Computer Science course offered at Post Graduate Diploma level of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), Islamabad, Pakistan. The results reveal that adaptable e-learning has improved the knowledge level of local learners. It has also helped to reduce the absent rates. The feedback survey has shown confidence of local learners on adaptable e-learning approach. It has been validated as technology acceptance model by the local learners.