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Arabic Culture and Literature Courses through Blended Learning for Advanced Students in Study Abroad Programs
Abstract
In this paper, I examine the use of blended learning approach in the teaching of Arabic culture and literature to advanced students in study abroad programs. More specifically, I explore the role of technology in mediating the material and promoting the learning goals in the reading skill and optimal interaction. I investigate how study abroad students engage with technology in their learning and how instructors can integrate experiential learning through an approach that presents literature and culture in more interactive, effective, and flexible ways to enable students to experience the culture, participate in it and develop linguistic and cultural competency. The intercultural component in my research focuses on the relationship between blended learning and the students’ abilities to engage in self-study. Since blended learning systems combine face-to-face and computer-mediated instruction, I will examine the educational and learning benefits of combining these approaches and how we can mitigate their potential limitations. One clear advantage of the use of blended learning in teaching Arabic language and culture to students in study abroad programs is associated with the possibility to introduce differentiated instruction which involves custom-designing instruction on the basis of students’ needs( DeGula 2004). I will analyze how courses such as Introduction to Arabic World Literature or Arabic as a Foreign Language for Advanced Students in Study Abroad, can benefit from, on the one hand, the strategies of computer - based learning for more flexibility, participation, and organization of the lesson, and on the other hand face-to-face in-class instruction for human connection, spontaneity, and group discussion, including learning components. The conclusion will focus on how blended learning in study abroad combines selection of material with outside the classroom experience of the culture, interactive media learning and social cultural immersion to enhance linguistic and cultural proficiency as well as the learning goals and the study abroad educational mission.
Discipline
Language
Geographic Area
Arab States
Sub Area
Arabic