The paper titled "Learning English in Saudi Arabia" by Fakieh Alrabai focuses on the multifaceted challenges and factors influencing English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learning in Saudi Arabia. The primary focus of the paper is to examine the cultural, social, and educational aspects that shape the EFL learning environment and to understand how these factors affect learners' outcomes.
The purpose of the study is to explore the key elements within the Saudi context that contribute to the difficulties in acquiring English language proficiency. The study investigates the impact of the Saudi community's conservative culture, religious beliefs, educational practices, and the dominance of Arabic on the effectiveness of English language learning.
The methodology of the study involves a comprehensive literature review and analysis of existing research on EFL in Saudi Arabia. The paper synthesizes findings from various studies to provide a holistic view of the challenges faced by Saudi learners.
Key findings of the research indicate that the conservative nature of Saudi society, the significant role of religion, and the limited exposure to English both inside and outside the classroom are major obstacles to effective language acquisition. The study also highlights the dominance of Arabic in daily life, the reliance on traditional teaching methods, and the lack of autonomy among learners as critical factors hindering English proficiency. Moreover, the paper underscores the importance of improving teacher training, curriculum design, and the integration of modern technology in EFL teaching.
The study concludes that for Saudi EFL learners to achieve higher levels of English proficiency, there must be a systemic change in the educational practices, including increased exposure to English, the adoption of more effective teaching methods, and the promotion of learner autonomy. The paper emphasizes the need for a collaborative effort among educators, policymakers, and the broader community to enhance the overall EFL learning environment in Saudi Arabia. These changes are vital for meeting the growing demand for English language skills in the context of globalization and the evolving Saudi economy.