Essay from Bekmirzayeva Aziza

Forgotten spring

The queen loved the spring from childhood. The rustling of the leaves, the vibration of the roses, was astonishing to her. The spring seemed to bring new life, new hopes, and dreams.

But then years passed … The life of the princess has changed. She married, took on daily worries, responsibilities, moved away from childhood. Now she did not notice the spring coming. There was no time to observe the raindrops from the window. Every day, the day of worries would pass the tremors, and it seemed to missing something in her heart.

One day when she was walking along the road, she felt that the soft spring was beating her breeze. She stopped for a moment. The trees were overwhelmed by gusts, moving the birds and the air. Her heart remembered those pure sensations a few years ago.

In no hurry, the princess went to the most loved garden in her childhood. She sat there and first took time for herself. The leaves were rich and the smell of flowers filled the air. The princess felt as if she had lost herself and found herself again.

That day she realized: Life is not just a bunch of worries. Sometimes you have to stop and feel spring. Because every season is the priceless gift of life, every moment.

Bekmirzayeva Aziza Rustam daughter was born on May 10, 2005 in Khatirchi district of Navoi region. It is the 2nd year student of the Samarkand Institute of Agroinovations and Research, which is interested in science and creativity. Continues to study the way to get to education and personal development and to be a leading specialist in their field. To date, they have more than 10 certificates and are working in various fields.

Fadwa Attia reviews Mohamed Sobhi’s new play Fares Reveals the Hidden

Older light skinned man with glasses and a brown coat and green sweater, next to a woman with dark curly hair, a necklace, and a dark and red floral blouse, in front of a bookshelf.
Director Mohamed Sobhi and critic Fadwa Attia

Fadwa Attia from Egypt writes about play (Fares reveals the hidden) Mohamed Sobhi’s directorial vision, from the very first scene, is presented by Sobhi using the technique of merging the cinema screen with theatrical performance, using footage from the character of Faris Faris Balajwad in the series, which he played years ago, to confirm a specific identity at the beginning of the play.

He takes us back to the very first scene of that, enthusiastically entering the scenes of that train—the train that expresses the history and identity of a nation, and the Al-Sadawi family, who came from different places for the inheritance and do not know each other—and a discussion about the treasure in the scene that follows, in an enjoyable transition between Cairo Station and the scene of the apartment in which they will live, which is the family home, conveying to us the concerns of the Egyptian household, from free education and its concerns to Afrocentricity, which is trying to steal the identity of the ancient Egyptians, to the conscientious censorship of our lives, to artificial crying, globalization, technology, and the mobile phone that has torn the Egyptian family apart.

Various people, some dressed up and some in jeans, on a stage. An indoor scene with chairs and paintings on the wall.

All of this is done in successive scenes in the first act as they search for the treasure amidst a succession of slogans, songs, lighting, and sets, and an attempt to decipher the treasure between the two heroes of the play, Mohamed Sobhi and Wafaa Sadek. By inviting the 22 heirs of Hafez Naguib to search for the treasure of their great patriotic grandfather, the land usurped by Maysoun, Mudalla Ghazi. These heirs include traitors, agents, pessimists, frustrated opportunists, superficial and greedy individuals. They resorted to deception until they were burdened with debts in their quest to fulfill the terms of the requirements of the rulers of Zion to the letter, ending with their dispersal, despairing and hopeless, due to their lack of true awareness of what was being plotted against them.

A play by the Fares Studio troupe, Uncovering the Hidden. This is the Actor’s Studio band, founded by the star Mohamed Sobhi in the eighties. With the team spirit, expressing the dreams of young people today, raising the slogan of awareness of the Palestinian cause. These are the names of the actors and actresses.

Image of a man in a white hat and black suit driving a golf cart, with another suited man with hands outstretched behind him. They're in front of a window with blue curtains.

This play revolves around the events of a knight’s play, which reveals the hidden, set against a melodramatic background. A true artistic, comedic, musical, and theatrical show, presented by the Actor’s Studio troupe, written and directed by Mohamed Sobhy, with Ayman Fatia participating in the book, decor by Mohamed El-Gharbawy, lyrics by Abdullah Hassan, music by Sherif Hamdan, and starring: Mohamed Sobhy (Fares), Wafa Sadek (Baheya), Kamal Attia (Dahab), Rehab Hussein (Maison), Angelica Ayman (Nidal), Laila Fawzy (Souad), Dalida (Shaimaa), Mustafa Youssef (Ghazy), Mohamed Shawky (Shawky), Lamia Orabi (Abla), Dalia Nabil (Malak), Michael William (Michael William, Daqdaq), Abou Heiba ​​(Sand), Helmy Galal (Aref the lawyer), Mohamed Abdel Moaty (Mukhtar), Alaa Fouad (Kamal), Khaled Mohamed (the final man), Gamal Abdel Nasser(Sadon), Walid Hany, James: Mahmoud El-Sherif (Rahma), Remasib (Sara), Lamar Awad (Hanin), Bilal Mohamed (Seif).

The play consists of two acts, each with seven scenes, and achieves harmony in all elements between the various sets and theatrical scenery, from the station to the apartment to the palace to the grounds. The smooth and effortless performance, the spirit of a loving team, the various topics including the identity of the homeland, the Palestinian cause, the golden billion, education issues, and others, and the emphasis on “We are all one, Muslim and Christian, hand in hand.”

Older bald man in a black suit and a blue tie in a white room with columns and doors near a younger middle aged man and woman in a blue dress and red suit.

The music, theatrical lighting, and the integrated visual image with integrated scenography, in addition to the appropriate clothing for each actor and actress, the songs and performance in singing as well, with a new return to emphasize identity, homeland, and belonging, and a reminder of the integration of cinematic presentation with theater, by integrating the character of Fares, who appeared to us years ago in the series “Fares without a Horse,” so that the prologue at the beginning of the play became the first scene that attracted the audience. As for the children, he presented them in the impact of technology and artificial intelligence on their lives, bringing us to our lives and what is in them, so that we can stand with ourselves, fully aware of the external threats from Israel to the challenges within our daily lives.

Thus, “Fares Uncovers the Hidden” is a historical show that displays the past, present, and future in the best play presented at the level of public and private sector theater, to sit on the throne of the summit in terms of occupying first place compared to shows that did not achieve the same artistic and moral value, achieving the difficult equation in a complete artistic show. The play “Fares Uncovers the Hidden” occupied first.

The author, in a white blouse holding a white cat and wearing a white hat with a large brim.

Fadwa Attia is a writer, painter and photographer from Egypt.

Announcement

The next issue of Synchronized Chaos Magazine will come out on April 5th.

If you’re in the Los Angeles area, please come see us at Chevalier’s Books on Saturday, March 29th at 6pm!

Synchronized Chaos’ Second March Issue: Sanity Break

Blue, full cup of coffee on a light green saucer with some bits of biscotti.
Image c/o Kevin Phillips

In March we will have a presence at the Association of Writing Programs conference in L.A. which will include an offsite reading at Chevalier’s Books on Saturday, March 29th at 6 pm. All are welcome to attend!

So far the lineup for our reading includes Asha Dore, Douglas Cole, Scott Ferry, Linda Michel-Cassidy, Aimee Suzara, Reverie Fey, Ava Homa, Michelle Gonzalez, Terry Tierney, Anisa Rahim, Katrina Byrd, and Cindy Rinne.

Chevalier's Books. Front of the store with glass windows showcasing all sorts of books. Store's name is in gold script letters on a dark pink painted background.

Author Justin Hamm is hosting a FREE online literary event the weekend of AWP, known as StayWP. This will include author talks, informative panels, book launches and networking!

To register, please click here: https://docs.google.com/…/1FAIpQLSe0jqgxfQn…/viewform…

Black on yellow announcement for STAY WP on March 28-30th, typewriter clip art picture on the right.

Poet and essayist Abigail George, whom we’ve published many times, shares the fundraiser her book’s press has created for her. She’s seeking contributions for office supplies and resources to be able to serve as a speaker and advocate for others who have experienced trauma or deal with mental health issues.

Also, the Educational Bookshop in Jerusalem, a store that has the mission of peaceful dialogue and education, invites readers to donate new or gently used books (all genres) that have been meaningful to them, with a note enclosed for future readers about why the books were meaningful. (The books don’t have to be about peace or social justice or the Mideast, although they can be). Please send books here. US-based Interlink Publishing has also started a GoFundMe for the store.

Eva Petropoulou Lianou shares the Dylan Thomas poetry contest and her own poetry launched off to the Moon on the Artemis mission as part of a collection.

A new book, Poetry Mexico, China, Greece, a collection from contributors Jeannette Tiburcio Vasquez, Yongbo Ma, and Eva Petropoulou Lianou, has just been released.

Our April 1st issue will be crafted by co-editor Kahlil Crawford. He’s a poet, musician, and essayist who has put together previous issues on Latin Culture and Electronic Music.

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This issue’s contributors seek balance and mental health by journeying into their pasts, the world’s pasts, into nature, into community, heritage, romantic, and family love. Others find Sanity Breaks in the subconscious, poetry, and art of various kinds.

Tiny bee drinking the nectar of a delicate blue flower in a whole bunch of them on some green grass.
Image c/o Linnaea Mallettte

Marjona Xushvaqtova celebrates the beauty and energy of spring. Shamsiya Khudoynazarova Turumnova takes joy in the fact that winter is dissipating and warmth and growth are returning.

Anna Keiko’s paintings bring a bit of off-kilter color and joy to nature and childhood. Kylian Cubilla Gomez’s photography presents joyful, colorful images of childhood play.

Brian Barbeito conveys the comfort and nostalgia of a small town that seems forgotten by time. Nilufar Anvarova remembers a joyful morning listening to roosters and smelling basil in a country village. Sayani Mukherjee also finds joy in moss, trees, and thatched roof cottages in her piece “Earth’s Song.” In another piece, Brian Barbeito shares intuitions and reflections from a day of walking his dogs in the snow.

Shukurillayeva Lazzatoy translates a poem from Uzbek writer Alexander Faynberg lamenting human-caused environmental destruction and analyzes the literary elements present in much of Faynberg’s work.

Ibragimova Rushana discusses the effectiveness of online language learning programs. Shahnoza Ochildiyeva describes the science of translation and the contributions of Ozod Sharafiddinov to the field.

View out a train window of grass, train tracks, gray rocks, a pole, and distant houses on a rainy day
Image c/o Erene Wong

Shukurillayeva Lazzatoy translates a poem from Alexander Faynberg about always searching for a distant shore, as well as another Faynberg work about finding hope and strength to continue a long journey.

Stephen Jarrell Williams speaks to the shared journey of finding meaning throughout one’s life. Grant Guy contributes musings on relationships and the passage of time as Daniel DeLucie reflects on how time marches relentlessly for us all.

Azamat Abdulatipov highlights how Uzbekistan pays national attention to youth issues through their student development programs. Gulnozaxon Xusanova reminds us to celebrate youthful achievements.

David Sapp draws upon classical art and music to trace a man’s journey towards maturity. Alan Catlin views art and landscapes through the eyes of a variety of well-known international artists. Norman J. Olson seeks out art old and new in London and Italy.

Joshua Martin evokes the subconscious behind-the-scenes consideration of thoughts and sensations in text that reads more like code than writing. Vernon Frazer clangs words together into a street corner symphony. Mark Young’s “geographies” intertwine color, shape, line, and form in unexpected ways. Peer Smits creates abstract images where thick lines and stamps color white canvases, and where posters blur and dance into rippled reflections.

Surreal image of a profile view of a woman with long dark hair curling upwards in a moon shape and a background of gray, black, and brown. Her eyes are closed.
Image c/o Circe Denyer

Mark Murphy illuminates the power of art and imagination to inspire people to claim agency in a world where much seems historically inevitable. Jasmina Makhmasalayeva urges people to form their own self-concepts apart from societal pressure.

Jacques Fleury posits a “resume” for a Black street thug in a way that troubles and questions stereotypes. Isaac Aju presents a tale of a brave student who stands up to institutional disrespect.

Taylor Dibbert highlights the need to write creatively for joy, not for money. Ivan Pozzoni’s work speaks to the struggles of the creative artist in a society dampening creative urges and to romantic love between people not afraid to live fully embodied and present.

Alaina Hammond’s play dramatizes the struggle of a young woman choosing between a steady and comfortable family life and the promise of passionate love. Natalie Bisso’s poem illustrates a tender and intense romantic attraction. Yusufjonova O’gilkhan’s tender short story explores the love between a brother and sister.

Duane Vorhees takes a lexical flight of fancy through nature and romantic attraction. Isabel Gomez de Diego’s photos weave together nature, romantic and family love, and religious devotion. Eva Petropoulou Lianou honors mothers through a poem translated to Arabic by Egyptian poet Ahmed Farooq Baidoon. Musurmunova Gulshoda honors parents, friendship, country and heritage, and teachers. Eva Lianou Petropoulou celebrates friendship and mutual respect among women.

Row of candles burning in pitch black darkness.
Image c/o George Hodan

Poet Joseph C. Ogbonna references the love, comfort and solace he finds through his faith. French poet Timothee Bordenave speaks to his love for the faith-infused atmosphere of Paris.

Mesfakus Salahin speaks to a tender and poetic love, and also describes the joy of authentic love that does not match poetic expectations. Lilian Dipasupil Kunimasa also addresses true love as opposed to exploitation and how reaching maturity will help people figure out the difference, along with the need for universal compassion and empathy.

Kathleen Hellen highlights the fragility and tenuousness of the bonds that connect us. Bill Tope’s short story speculates on the many might-have-beens of a life cut tragically too short.

Mykyta Ryzhykh highlights the devastation of losing years of life to war and grief, blind but able to sense a tree losing leaves and a world that “still remembers the shape of our bodies.” Z.I. Mahmud analyzes the anti-war sentiment of Bertolt Brecht’s play Mother Courage and Her Children by showing how hardship and violence can change or flatten a person’s character and feelings. Umid Najjari’s poetry addresses war, love, loss, and grief.

Eva Petropoulou Lianou raises awareness of how domestic violence can start with control and possessiveness before physical assault. Mahbub Alam writes of his concern for his homeland of Bangladesh where women and girls face rape and assault. Linda S. Gunther’s short story deals with a woman recovering from and reclaiming her self-esteem after a breakup with a powerful man.

Fantastical image of a green monster's hands with red fingernails covering a woman's face. You can see her eyes peeking out. Titled "Depression."
Image c/o Linda Leani

Orinbayeva Dildara reflects on how love has inspired her poetry, but not brought her happiness. Murodillayeva Mohinur expresses the rage and pain caused by betrayal. J.J. Campbell’s work captures ennui and frustration within lonely suburbs.

A fresh installment of Grzegorz Wroblewski’s poems, translated from Polish to English by Peter Burzynski, arrives with surreal and strangely humorous disillusionment about modern society and life in general. Naaman Al-Gharib laments how the modern intellect has descended into petty selfishness and solipsism rather than expansive thought.

Poet Pat Doyne speaks to history’s cycles repeating in the modern world and how easy it is to lose hard-won liberties. Daniel De Culla lampoons and apes Donald Trump in a satirical romp.

Sharipov Dilshod Bakhshullayevich outlines how to maintain one’s sanity and civility in a world that can test your patience. Maja Milojkovic relates how she’s mindfully and carefully maintaining her wisdom and kindness and how she urges the world to do the same, as Mirta Liliana Ramirez shares how she’s choosing the most uplifting and thoughtful memories from all of her past to help her move forward to the future.

We hope that Synchronized Chaos, while challenging your mind and heart and broadening your horizons, also serves as a kind of sanity break.

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Poetry from Marjona Xushvaqtova

Central Asian teen girls in white collared school uniform shirts and long dark braided hair standing in a line next to each other. The author of this piece is in the middle facing the camera.
Spring!

We waited for you when we were children,
We used to run down the hill,
Blue-green grass is the strangest corner,
Bud reminded you today.

We would build a tent out of grass,
What a hero Clouds was.
We made wreaths, beautiful,
Your beauty was also a gem.

When I think about it, I don't appreciate you. 
I will not laugh with you when the time comes.
I didn't become your daughter, Marjon, 
I don't feel you com, spring...

Spring...

Marjonabanu Khushvaktova was born on June 13, 2004 in Kokdala district of Kashkadarya region. Currently, she is a 2nd year student of Shahrisabz State Pedagogical Institute. Her creative works are in “Taloktepa tolei” , “Taloktepa tolei” selection book and “The smart youth of Uzbekistan”, “Raven Cage Zine”, “Page 3 News”, “Youth of Uzbekistan” “Yoshlar bayozi” and has been published in many international books, magazines, newspapers and anthologies, and is the owner of many diplomas and certificates.

Essay from Ibragimova Rushana

Central Asian teen girl with long straight dark hair and a black collared shirt and her arms crossed on her chest.

Effectiveness of Online Language Learning Platforms

Ibragimova Rushana Bobomurod daughter

Shakhrisabz State Pedagogical Institute

4th stage student

Abstract

The rise of online language learning platforms has transformed traditional approaches to language acquisition by offering learners increased flexibility, accessibility, and a range of interactive resources. This paper examines the effectiveness of these platforms, highlighting their advantages, such as the ability to learn at one’s own pace, the use of gamification, and access to native speakers and authentic materials. However, challenges such as the lack of personalized feedback and potential issues with learner motivation and accountability are also discussed. The paper finds that while online language learning platforms can be highly effective for motivated and disciplined learners, they are most beneficial when used as a supplementary tool in a blended learning approach.

Introduction

The advent of the digital era has revolutionized various aspects of human life, and education is no exception. Online language learning platforms have emerged as popular tools for acquiring new languages. Platforms such as Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone have become popular due to their convenience, affordability, and innovative use of technology. These platforms offer learners flexibility, convenience, and access to a wide range of resources that are often not available in traditional classroom settings. This paper aims to explore the effectiveness of online language learning platforms, focusing on their advantages, potential drawbacks, and overall impact on language acquisition.

Advantages of Online Language Learning Platforms

One of the primary benefits of online language learning platforms is their accessibility and flexibility. Unlike traditional classroom settings, online platforms allow learners to study at their own pace and according to their own schedules. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for individuals who may have full-time jobs, family responsibilities, or other commitments that prevent them from attending regular classes. Platforms like Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone provide learners with the opportunity to practice language skills anytime and anywhere, as long as they have an internet connection. Moreover, online language learning platforms often employ interactive and engaging methods to teach languages. These platforms use a combination of text, audio, video, and interactive exercises to enhance the learning experience. For example, Duolingo incorporates gamification elements, such as points, levels, and challenges, to motivate users and keep them engaged. Studies have shown that incorporating interactive elements in learning can significantly enhance knowledge retention and comprehension (Zarzycka-Piskorz, 2016).[1] By offering varied and interactive content, online language learning platforms cater to different learning styles, making language acquisition more effective. Another significant advantage of online language learning platforms is the access to native speakers and authentic language materials. Many platforms offer features that allow learners to connect with native speakers for practice, either through text chat, voice calls, or video calls. Websites like iTalki and Tandem enable learners to find language exchange partners or tutors, providing an immersive experience that is crucial for developing speaking and listening skills. Additionally, online platforms often include real-world content, such as news articles, videos, and podcasts, allowing learners to engage with the language in authentic contexts.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite their numerous advantages, online language learning platforms also have some limitations. One of the main challenges is the lack of personalized feedback. In traditional classroom settings, teachers can provide immediate, tailored feedback to students, which is essential for correcting mistakes and improving language skills. However, online platforms often rely on automated systems that may not always accurately assess nuanced language use or provide detailed explanations for errors. While some platforms do offer access to human tutors, these services often come at an additional cost, which may not be affordable for all learners. Another limitation of online language learning platforms is the potential for reduced accountability and motivation. Learning a language requires consistent practice and dedication, and some learners may struggle to maintain motivation without the structure and accountability provided by a classroom environment. The flexibility of online platforms, while advantageous, can also lead to procrastination and irregular study habits. Research has indicated that learners who lack self-discipline may find it challenging to progress in online learning environments (Kizilcec, Pérez-Sanagustín, & Maldonado, 2017).[2]

Evaluating Effectiveness

The effectiveness of online language learning platforms depends on several factors, including the learner’s goals, learning style, and level of self-discipline. Studies have shown that learners who are highly motivated and disciplined can achieve significant progress using online platforms. For example, a study conducted by Vesselinov and Grego (2012)[3][4] found that users of the Duolingo platform made substantial gains in their language skills, equivalent to a semester of university-level language study. However, the same study noted that dropout rates were high, suggesting that not all learners find online platforms suitable for their needs. It is also important to consider the role of online platforms as a supplementary tool rather than a replacement for traditional language learning methods. Many language educators advocate for a blended learning approach, combining online platforms with in-person classes or other interactive methods. This approach leverages the strengths of both online and offline learning environments, providing learners with a more comprehensive and effective language learning experience.

Conclusion

Online language learning platforms offer a flexible, accessible, and engaging way to learn languages, making them a valuable resource in the modern educational landscape. They provide learners with the opportunity to practice language skills at their convenience and offer a variety of interactive and authentic materials. However, these platforms also have limitations, including the lack of personalized feedback and potential challenges with motivation and accountability. The effectiveness of online language learning platforms ultimately depends on the individual learner’s goals, discipline, and commitment. As technology continues to evolve, these platforms will likely become even more sophisticated, providing enhanced features and more personalized learning experiences. For now, they serve as a powerful tool that, when used effectively, can significantly enhance language acquisition.

References

1.Kizilcec, R. F., Pérez-Sanagustín, M., & Maldonado, J. J. (2017). Self-regulated learning strategies predict learner behavior and goal attainment in Massive Open Online Courses. Computers & Education, 104, 18-33.

2.Vesselinov, R., & Grego, J. (2012). Duolingo Effectiveness Study. City University of New York.

3.Zarzycka-Piskorz, E. (2016). Kahoot it or not? Can games be motivating in learning grammar? Teaching English with Technology, 16(3), 17-36.


[1] Zarzycka-Piskorz, E. (2016). Kahoot it or not? Can games be motivating in learning grammar? Teaching English with Technology, 16(3), 17-36.

[2] Kizilcec, R. F., Pérez-Sanagustín, M., & Maldonado, J. J. (2017). Self-regulated learning strategies predict learner behavior and goal attainment in Massive Open Online Courses. Computers & Education, 104, 18-33. 

[4] Vesselinov, R., & Grego, J. (2012). Duolingo Effectiveness Study. City University of New York.

Ibragimova Rushana Bobomurod’s daughter. She was born on September 5, 2004 in Mubarak District, Kashkadarya Region. She has several international certificates. She can communicate fluently in English and Turkish. Currently, she is a 4th-year student of Foreign Language and Literature at the Shahrisabz State Pedagogical Institute.