Which Cultural Aspects Are Malay Learners of Arabic Interested in Knowing?

Abstract

An important goal for foreign language learning is to equip learners with the linguistic and cultural skills to function effectively in this multicultural world. However, research on culture in language learning has almost always investigated teacher and scholar views. This study investigated the levels of interest and types of Arab culture that Malay Arabic learners" are interested in learning, from the perspective of learners themselves. This study employed a survey questionnaire consisting of 56 cultural items and representing six subcosntructs and an openended question. 361 respondents representing Secondary Two students from four National Religious Secondary Schools (SMKA) were cluster sampled. The quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings indicate a high level of interest amongst respondents to know the Arab culture (m=4.88). The subconstruct Religion and Education received the highest rating (m=5.27). The respondents also suggested other cultural aspects that they are interested in learning, including the way Arabs think. Findings from this study are empirical evidence for curriculum designers and textbook writers on the aspects of Arab culture that deserve to be integrated into the Arabic learning experience.