The teaching of Arabic in Malta within the European context

Abstract

As a consequence of Malta's accession to the European Union in May 2004, the island has had to face and accept a number of new and stimulating challenges. Within this context, several adjustments and amendments have had to occur, particularly in the area of education. As a result, the teaching of Arabic in European Malta, is also expected to pursue certain principles and standards. Due to all the transformations taking place, as a teacher of Arabic, I felt comμelled to verily whether the teaching of this language is actually conforming and complying to the required changes, as well as to evaluate the importance given to the Arabic language in European Malta. The first two chapters deal with an overall introduction and the methodology adopted in this thesis. The third chapter looks at the beginnings of the teaching of Arabic in Malta. Chapter 4 addresses how the political situation left its mark on the teaching of Arabic. The successive two chapters delve into how the European Union actually views the importance of the Arabic language, and the impact of Malta's accession to the European Union on the teaching of Arabic. Chapter 7 presents the views of various professional exponents on the teaching of Arabic in European Malta. The concluding chapter focuses on future prospects and how the level of the teaching of Arabic can be improved and enhanced.