Implications

The Reality of Arabic in Israel - Classrooms in Conflict - Hezi Brosh

Hezi Brosh [+-]
U. S. Naval Academy
Professor Brosh is a distinguished scholar in Arabic Language Teaching and Learning, holding a Ph.D. from Tel Aviv University and an M.A. from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. His research primarily focuses on second-language acquisition, particularly in teaching Arabic to non-native speakers, with pioneering studies on the challenges and strategies encountered by Hebrew speakers learning Arabic in Israel. Professor Brosh has played pivotal roles in establishing Arabic language programs at the State Teachers’ College of Education and Seminar Hakibbutzim in Israel, as well as at Bard College in the U.S. Moreover, he served for many years as the coordinator of the Arabic Teacher Training Program at Tel Aviv University and held the position of director of the Arabic Program at the U.S. Naval Academy from 2017 to 2022. In addition to his work in language acquisition, Professor Brosh’s research extends into sociolinguistics, exploring themes such as language and conflict, identity, and contact. He has contributed substantially to language pedagogy, effective teaching methods, curriculum development, and cultural integration in language instruction. As an accomplished author, Professor Brosh has authored numerous Arabic textbooks and scholarly articles, with his work recognized in prestigious journals such as Applied Linguistics, Foreign Language Annals (FLA), and Studies in Second Language Learning and Teaching (SLLT). He actively participates in national and international conferences, symposia, workshops, and professional societies, sharing his expertise with educators and language enthusiasts. Professor Brosh’s ongoing dedication is evident through his affiliation with the Languages and Cultures Department of the U.S. Naval Academy, where he continues to advance the field and empower Arabic language learners worldwide.

Description

Chapter fourteen delves into the challenges faced in making Arabic mandatory in Israeli schools, with concerns revolving around its potential impact on Hebrew dominance and Jewish identity. Despite recent proposals to integrate Arabic education from elementary school, focusing on communication skills and cultural understanding, obstacles such as inconsistent implementation and low retention rates persist. Innovative strategies propose selective offerings for high-achieving students to rejuvenate Arabic education, accompanied by immersive experiences and enhanced teacher training. Elevating Arabic's societal status necessitates acknowledging its cultural importance, improving teaching quality, and incentivizing careers in Arabic education. The chapter underscores the significance of comprehensive teacher-education programs for Arabic instructors, advocating for a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. It also advocates adapting Israel's language policy to accommodate Hebrew and Arabic speakers, fostering cultural understanding and inclusivity. Additionally, it recommends establishing support networks and forums for Arabic teachers to facilitate professional growth and collaboration. The curriculum should prioritize cultural competence and incorporate diverse teaching methods and assessment techniques to enrich students' engagement with the Arabic language and culture.

Notify A Colleague

Citation

Brosh, Hezi. Implications. The Reality of Arabic in Israel - Classrooms in Conflict. Equinox eBooks Publishing, United Kingdom. May 2025. ISBN 9781800505605. https://www.equinoxpub.com/home/view-chapter/?id=46253. Date accessed: 21 Nov 2024 doi: 10.1558/equinox.46253. May 2025

Dublin Core Metadata