Date
2009
Document Type
Master's Thesis (Open Access)
Degree Name
Master of Arts (M.A.)
Department
Teacher Education
Abstract
This study investigated the role of social context in learning a foreign language. My research question was: Does studying a foreign language within a social context enhance students' learning of the language, and does that vary by gender? To address this question, I first reviewed literature about gender differences in learning a foreign language, and the role that culture might play in it. I then used qualitative methodology to collect data. I found that both women and men study Arabic for similar reasons, but women favored the cultural aspects more heavily. There was no clear evidence for gender superiority in language acquisition, although females appeared to be better in speaking and writing while men were better in reading. There were other differences related to perceptions of Arabic culture. My Action Plan is directed at enhancing cross-cultural communication, focusing on the roles of teachers, students, curriculum, and the school.
Recommended Citation
Rezk, Yaser, "Gender differences in learning a second language related to a social context" (2009). Capstone Projects and Master's Theses. 521.
https://digitalcommons.csumb.edu/caps_thes_restricted/521
Comments
Thesis (M.A.) Teacher Education Department