The best aspects of the course included the helpful professors, the small class size, and the laidback environment in which students got to learn the content. The worst aspects of the course included the excessive focus on homework assignments and the unorganized format in which students received their assignments. They were not always clear on what was due and when it was due. The course would improve if there were more listening and speaking practice assignments, as well as a better class structure. Prospective students should expect the language to be fairly difficult and should allot lots of practice time outside of class.

Many students agreed that the professors for this course care about their students and made sure they understood the material by using repetition. The class size was small, which lead to many opportunities for class participation. However, students were not excited about class being every day and did not think the textbook helped students learn how to speak Arabic. Suggestions for improvement included replacing the textbook, more practice speaking Arabic in class, and more variety in classroom activities. Prospective students should know that the course workload is relatively light, but frequent practice and memorization is important for success.

The best part about this class was the professor’s engaging, organized and enthusiastic classroom. Students appreciated the professor’s use of effective methods to practice language skills, and the good balance of reading, writing, and speaking the language. Many students found it cumbersome to have nightly homework and meet five days a week for class. This course would benefit from incorporating more practical verbal activities in class, and having more practice with vocabulary to facilitate memorization. Perspective students should know that the assignments and repetition make learning easier.