The Effect of Hebrew Language Proficiency on Academic and Social Self-Image, Motivation and Academic Success of Arab Students in the Israeli Academia

Abstract

The goal of this study was to examine the effect of Hebrew language proficiency on the academic and social self-image, motivation and academic success of Arab students in Israeli academia. This quantitative research centered on seven hypotheses that were examined by means of three questionnaires: social and academic self-image, Hebrew proficiency, and motivation. The sample included 857 Arab students in Israel. Most hypotheses were corroborated. The findings show a significant positive correlation between self-reported Hebrew language proficiency and academic and social self-image, motivation and academic achievements (current year’s grades). Also, Hebrew proficiency was found to be higher among university students than among college students. Furthermore, a significant positive relationship was found between academic and social self-image, and motivation and academic success; namely, the higher the students’ self-image was, the higher their motivation and academic success were. We also found a significant positive relationship between high school grades and Hebrew language proficiency and academic achievements. Also, Arab students who had taken 5-unit matriculation exams in Hebrew language reported greater proficiency, and their current academic year grades were higher, than students who had taken 3-unit matriculation exams.