Abstract
The study aimed to determine whether a correlation exists between choice
of foreign language class and a high school student’s perception and
knowledge of the Middle East. For the purpose of this investigation,
causal comparative research was utilized as participants were split into
two groups: non-Arabic learners (those taking French or Spanish in high
school, for example,) and Arabic learners (those enrolled in an Arabic
course in high school). Participants received a carefully-crafted survey
that measured both their knowledge of the Middle East, consisting of
both geographical and cultural questions, and their perception of the
region (based on the Middle East’s portrayal in America, particularly
through media). After a thorough analysis, it was determined that Arabic
learners generally had more knowledge of the region while having a more
positive perception towards it. Such research sparks future inquiries in
regards to whether learning a different foreign language can trigger a
similar effect and how this information can be applied both nationally
and internationally as America’s role in the Middle East increases.