Arabic language fluency among the undergraduates at the department of Arabic language of South Eastern University of Sri Lanka

Abstract

Learning a language is of phenomenal importance in each community to express its intellectuality. There can be no doubt that learning Arabic language should be one of the top priorities among its learners. Indeed, it should be seen as one of the fundamental necessities for a person who wishes to pursue studies in Arabic. In many countries of the contemporary world the studies and streams related to Arabic language is expanded to compete with influence of English around the world. Arabic language is taught as a main subject in the state schools of Sri Lanka and in addition to that, some of the Sri Lankan universities also teach Arabic. There is a department for Arabic language in South Eastern University of Sri Lanka. Majority of the students entering the department of Arabic Language lack fluency in Arabic although it has been taught from first year to third year. The proficiency level of specified students in Arabic Language is inadequate to undertake their studies continuously compared to the learners of other languages. This may be a major reason for the incapability of the graduates to face the linguistic and lingualistic challenges of their respective field. This study aims to identify the factors that lead to the failure in enhancing Arabic language among the undergraduates. For this research, the sample comprised 100 students and 04 leturers in South Eastern University of Sri Lanka were selected using purposive sampling method. Interview and observation were the primary data collection methods whereas journals, and websites were the secondary data sources used for this study. Collected data were analysed using qualitative method and was presented in a descriptive approach. The study will gain its importance so that it will benefit the undergraduates of Arabic language as well as the Arabic learners in understanding the religious expressions and promote their studies successfully. The research presented some important recommendations including the one that, the learner should be taught in a supportive atmosphere, and should not be afraid of making mistakes as it is a part of learning.