Teching and Learning Arabic in Southern Thailand in the 19th Century

Abstract

This research on teaching and learning of Arabic language is very important since it is the language used in the holy Quran as well as the religious language of Islam, let alone the language of performing “ibadah” to the almighty Allah.  This research aimed at studying three aspects of teaching and learning of Arabic language in Southern Thailand in the 19^th century namely a) the goal of teaching and learning b) curriculum and modules used in teaching and learning Arabic c) the approach and methodologies in teaching and learning of Arabic language.  The qualitative approach methodology was employed in this research through the library secondary data and interviews.  Data obtained were analyzed using the descriptive approach.  The findings showed that the goal of teaching and learning of Arabic language in Southern Thailand during that particular period was oriented towards increasing the skills of Arabic language from the perspective of language method aimed at reading and understanding the religious books or “kitab”.  Meanwhile, curriculum, text books and materials used in teaching and learning emphasized more on Arabic language method.  However, the approach and method of teaching and learning used were basically grammatical and translational approach.