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Volume 9 , Number 2, August 2024 

 ISSN : 2579-8383 (Print) ISSN : 2579-8405 (Online) 

 

  

The Impact of Using a Communicative Approach to Improve 

Arabic Language Proficiency  

  
Moh. Aziz Arifin, Faisal Mahmud Adam Ibrahim, Umi Mahmudah 

Universitas Islam Negeri Maulana malik Ibrahim Malang 
200104320007@student.uin-malang.ac.id     

 

Accepted: 
May 14th 2024 

Reviewed: 
July 18th 2024 

Published: 
August 28th 2024 

 

Abstract  
This study aims to examine and analyze the impact of using a communicative approach to improve 
Arabic language proficiency. The focus is based on the problem of low Arabic speaking skills 
among students, which, according to the researcher’s hypothesis, is partly due to teachers’ inability 
to apply appropriate teaching methods that align with learning objectives. This research employed 
a quantitative method, designed to test the effect of the communicative approach in classroom 
instruction and its influence on students' Arabic language proficiency. The data source consisted 
of all Grade XI students, and data analysis was conducted using simple regression with the 
assistance of SPSS. The results of the analysis revealed: 1) the application of the communicative 
approach in teaching Arabic language proficiency was categorized as high, with a median score of 
84.9, 2) students' Arabic language proficiency was also categorized as high, with a median score of 
60.3, and 3) there was a significant effect of 65.2% between the independent variable (X) and the 
dependent variable (Y), with a significance value of 0.000 and an R square of 0.652. 
 
 Keywords: :  communicative approach, Arabic language proficiency 

 

 By Authors 
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International 
License. 

 

Introduction 

Arabic language learning is a complex and multifaceted endeavor, requiring a high degree of 

creativity and innovation from educators. The role of the teacher goes far beyond the traditional 

task of transmitting knowledge; it demands the thoughtful selection and application of pedagogical 

strategies that are both appropriate and engaging for learners. Recent studies highlight that many 

students today view Arabic as a challenging and unappealing subject, a sentiment reflected in 

Rosaidi et al. 1, who note that Arabic is often regarded as difficult, tedious, and, in some cases, 

intimidating in contemporary educational settings. Such perceptions underscore the urgent need 

for innovative teaching methods to enhance student motivation and transform the Arabic learning 

 
1 Aiman Natasya Rosaidi, Gayle Mak Su Xin, and Seera A.S., “MALAYSIAN LANGUAGE LEARNERS’ 

PERCEPTION TOWARDS LEARNING ARABIC PASS THE CRITICAL PERIOD,” Inception - Journal of Languages 
and Literature 2, no. 2 (December 30, 2022): 45–53. 

mailto:200104320007@student.uin-malang.ac.id
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/


 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 2,  August 2024| 95 

 

  

experience into one that is enjoyable and effective 2. 

In response to this growing disengagement, educators must adopt innovative teaching 

methodologies, integrate appropriate media, and implement instructional strategies that engage 

students at a deeper level. The teacher’s role as an innovator is critical in creating a learning 

environment where Arabic is seen as accessible and enjoyable 3. A well-designed learning 

environment fosters students’ ability to comprehend the material, resulting in more effective 

learning outcomes 4. The careful selection of instructional media that align with both educational 

objectives and student interests is crucial in this process (Brosh, 2019). Furthermore, the focus 

must be on strategies that enhance intrinsic motivation and sustain interest, key factors in 

successful language acquisition 5. 

Several instructional methodologies have been explored in the context of language education, 

including formal, functional, integrative, sociolinguistic, psychological, psycholinguistic, 

behaviorist, communicative, and three-stage approaches 6. Each of these methodologies has its 

strengths depending on the specific learning context and goals. However, this study focuses 

specifically on the communicative approach, which has gained widespread acceptance in language 

teaching due to its emphasis on interaction and practical language use. The communicative 

approach is based on the premise that language learning is most effective when learners engage in 

real-life communication tasks that mimic authentic language use outside the classroom 7. 

Numerous studies underscore the advantages of employing the communicative approach, 

including improved classroom dynamics, enhanced learning outcomes, and increased student 

motivation 8. This approach prioritizes interaction and engagement, which are essential for 

developing both fluency and accuracy in language use 9. It transforms the classroom into an active 

learning environment, encouraging students to participate more fully in the learning process, 

thereby enhancing not only their language proficiency but also their overall engagement in the 

 
2 Vanda Abi Raad et al., “Medical Education in a Foreign Language and History-Taking in the Native Language 

in Lebanon - a Nationwide Survey,” BMC Medical Education 16, no. 1 (November 22, 2016): 1–6. 
3 Rahma Al-Mahrooqi et al., “Characteristics of a Good EFL Teacher: Omani EFL Teacher and Student 

Perspectives,” SAGE Open 5, no. 2 (June 19, 2015). 
4 Ismail Muhamad, Hazwan Abdul Rahman, and Azman Che Mat, “The Arabic Language Level of Candidates 

for Malaysia Religion High Certificate (MRHC): Reading and Grammar,” Asian Social Science 10, no. 22 (October 30, 
2014): 156–164; Muh Barid Nizaruddin Wajdi, “Arabic Learning Skill,” AT-Tahdzib: Jurnal Studi Islam dan Muamalah 3, 
no. 2 (2015): 32–47. 

5 Ridwan Efendi et al., “Application of Audiolingual Method in Active Arabic Language Learning for Visually 

Impaired Students,” Al-Ta’rib : Jurnal Ilmiah Program Studi Pendidikan Bahasa Arab IAIN Palangka Raya 11, no. 2 
(December 8, 2023): 309–320; Muh Barid Nizarudin Wajdi, “Dynamic Learning for the Arabic Language,” EDUTEC: 
Journal of Education And Technology 2, no. 2 (2019): 25–31. 

6 Nurul Asma Mazlan et al., “The Influence of Arabic Lecturers Teaching Strategies on Student Understanding 
in Universiti Teknologi MARA,” International Journal of Academic Research in Progressive Education and Development 10, no. 
3 (August 5, 2021). 

7 Nur Afiqah Athirah Mohd Rushdi and Lily Hanefarezan Asbulah, “Higher Education Students’ Engagement 
and Factors That Constrain Students’ Activeness in Learning Arabic Language,” International Journal of Academic Research 
in Progressive Education and Development 12, no. 2 (June 23, 2023). 

8 Istabraq Tariq Al Azzawi and Luma Adnan Taha, “Investigating the Intrinsic Motivation toward Learning 
English at Tikrit University,” Journal of Tikrit University for Humanities 30, no. 2, 1 (February 15, 2023): 57–72. 

9 Shani Shillingford and Nancy J. Karlin, “The Role of Intrinsic Motivation in the Academic Pursuits of 
Nontraditional Students,” New Horizons in Adult Education and Human Resource Development 25, no. 3 (July 2013): 91–
102. 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 2,  August 2024| 96 

 

  

subject 10. 

Despite the theoretical and practical benefits of the communicative approach, Arabic language 

instruction at Hidayatut Thullab Islamic College has struggled to effectively engage students. 

Observations reveal that a significant portion of students are disengaged during Arabic lessons, 

resulting in a learning atmosphere that is often unproductive and lacks vitality 11. This 

disengagement can be attributed to the continued reliance on traditional teaching methods that do 

not resonate with the needs and interests of today’s learners 12. The use of outdated instructional 

strategies, combined with a lack of interactive, student-centered activities, further exacerbates the 

challenge 13. 

The difficulties faced in teaching Arabic at Hidayatut Thullab Islamic College are closely 

linked to the pedagogical approaches employed. Initial analyses suggest that addressing student 

disengagement requires a fundamental re-evaluation of instructional methods, with a focus on 

approaches that actively engage students and meet their learning needs 14. The communicative 

approach stands out as a promising strategy, emphasizing interaction and practical language use in 

the classroom. This method can bridge the gap between traditional instructional practices and the 

interactive learning experiences students require to achieve proficiency, especially in speaking 

skills—a domain often overlooked in conventional language teaching models 15. 

Spoken proficiency in Arabic is of critical importance, especially considering the language's 

role in both academic and religious contexts. Unlike other language competencies, speaking skills 

require regular practice and engagement with authentic language use scenarios. Without 

opportunities for real-time interaction, learners often struggle to achieve the fluency necessary for 

effective communication (Aziz et al., 2022). Therefore, this research focuses on two key objectives: 

1) to describe how the communicative approach is implemented in Arabic language instruction 

and 2) to assess the impact of this approach on students' proficiency in spoken Arabic 16. By 

exploring these objectives, the study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of the communicative 

approach in improving students’ spoken language skills, providing practical insights into how 

language teaching can be enhanced to better serve students. 

In summary, the research problem addressed in this study is the persistent disengagement and 

 
10 Fahreza Prakasa, Shafruddin Tajuddin, and Syamsi Setiadi, “Mastery of Beginner Level Arabic Vocabulary 

Writing Ability for Students of the Arabic Language Education Study Program, Faculty of Languages and Arts, 
Universitas Negeri Jakarta.,” Scientia 2, no. 2 (May 18, 2023): 16–19. 

11 Ahmad Maghfurin et al., “Enhancing Arabic Speaking Skills In Traditional Pesantren,” Alsinatuna 9, no. 1 
(December 31, 2023): 16–28. 

12 Mohd Azidan Abdul Jabar and Zeyad Faisal Al-Azzam, “Current Situation of Arabic Language Studies in 
Jordan Universities,” The Educational Review, USA 1, no. 4 (December 18, 2017). 

13 Najwa Ahmad Saleem Khasawneh and Mohamad Ahmad Saleem Khasawneh, “Linguistic Needs of Non-
Native Students of Arabic Language at Saudi Universities,” International Journal of Language Education 6, no. 3 (2022): 
245–253. 

14 Justina Bružaitė-Liseckienė, “The Motivation of the Foreign Students of Vilnius University to Learn 
Lithuanian as a Second Language,” Vilnius University Open Series (October 27, 2023): 131–151. 

15 Agung Gumilar, “Use of Malay Arabic Scriptures of Jawi Pegon in Number of Ancient Metal Currencies in 
Indonesia from Pre-Independence to Early Independence,” Jurnal Keislaman dan Pendidikan (2021). 

16 Abdel-Hakeem Kasem, “Innovation in Language Education: Enriching Arabic Language Learner Experiences 
and Proficiency In2D and 3D Environments,” IOSR Journal of Humanities and Social Science 21, no. 09 (September 2016): 
40–46. 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 2,  August 2024| 97 

 

  

underachievement of students in Arabic language learning. By investigating the communicative 

approach, this research aims to contribute to the broader body of knowledge on language teaching 

methodologies and offer practical solutions for improving Arabic language education in schools 
17. The findings from this study will be disseminated in the form of an academic article, offering 

evidence-based recommendations for educators and policymakers to enhance the quality of Arabic 

language instruction 18. 

 

Method 

This study employed a quantitative research methodology, which is specifically designed to 

measure the relationship between variables and assess the impact of one variable on another. The 

primary objective of the research was to investigate the influence of the communicative approach 

on enhancing students' Arabic language proficiency. Quantitative methods were chosen for their 

ability to provide objective, measurable results that can be statistically analyzed, offering a clear 

understanding of the effect size and significance of the communicative approach in the learning 

process. 

The population for this study consisted of all fourth-semester students enrolled at the 

Hidayatut Thullab Islamic College. Given the relatively small size of the population, the total 

sampling technique was utilized, allowing for the inclusion of all 30 students as research 

participants. Total sampling is particularly advantageous in cases where the population is small 

enough to ensure that each individual can participate, thereby enhancing the generalizability of the 

findings to the entire population. 

 

Data Collection 

Data for this study was collected using a structured questionnaire, which was designed to 

capture both quantitative and qualitative insights into students' experiences with the 

communicative approach and their proficiency in the Arabic language. The questionnaire included 

sections on students' perceptions of the communicative teaching methods, their self-assessed 

language skills, and specific questions designed to measure their proficiency in speaking, reading, 

and writing Arabic. The questionnaire was pre-tested to ensure clarity and reliability, and 

adjustments were made as necessary to improve the instrument's effectiveness. 

 

 

 

Data Analysis Techniques 

To ensure the accuracy and reliability of the findings, the data underwent a rigorous statistical 

analysis process. The analysis was conducted using SPSS version 24, a statistical software package 

 
17 Lily Hanefarezan Asbulah, Ashinida Aladdin, and Musab Sahrim, “THE EFFECT OF MOTIVATION ON 

ARABIC COLLOCATION KNOWLEDGE: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF COLLOCATION LEARNING 
STRATEGIES,” Journal of Nusantara Studies (JONUS) 5, no. 2 (June 25, 2020): 1–18. 

18 Choirul Mahfud et al., “Islamic Cultural and Arabic Linguistic Influence on the Languages of Nusantara from 
Lexical Borrowing to Localized Islamic Lifestyles,” Wacana 22, no. 1 (2021): 224–248. 



 
 

  
 
  

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widely used in educational research for its robust capabilities in handling large datasets and 

conducting complex statistical tests. The following statistical tests were employed: 

1. Validity Test: The validity of the questionnaire was assessed to ensure that it accurately 

measured what it intended to measure. Content validity was established through expert review, 

and construct validity was verified through factor analysis. 

2. Reliability Test: A reliability test was conducted to assess the internal consistency of the 

questionnaire items. The Cronbach's Alpha coefficient was used to determine the reliability, 

with a value of 0.7 or higher considered acceptable for ensuring the consistency of the 

responses across items. 

3. Normality Test: To determine whether the data followed a normal distribution, a normality 

test was conducted using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. This test was essential for selecting 

the appropriate statistical methods for further analysis. 

4. Homogeneity Test: A homogeneity test was performed to assess whether the variance of the 

data was consistent across different groups. This test helped determine whether the data met 

the assumptions required for parametric tests, such as regression analysis. 

5. Hypothesis Testing: The core of the analysis involved testing the research hypothesis, which 

posited a significant effect of the communicative approach on students' Arabic language 

proficiency. Simple regression analysis was employed to examine the strength and direction 

of the relationship between the independent variable (communicative approach) and the 

dependent variable (Arabic language proficiency). The significance of the relationship was 

determined through the p-value, with a value of less than 0.05 indicating statistical 

significance. 

 

 

Research Results and Discussion 

Description of the Use of the Communicative Approach 

The implementation of the communicative approach in Arabic language learning was 

assessed through evaluations conducted during the experiment. To classify the data, the highest 

and lowest student scores were identified. The interval scale was determined by subtracting the 

lowest score from the highest score, adding one, and then dividing the result by four to classify 

the data into four categories: Very High, High, Low, and Very Low. The formula used is as follows: 

 

Interval Scale 

 

 
 

For this analysis: 

 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 2,  August 2024| 99 

 

  

 
Based on this formula, the interval classification is as follows: 

• 90 – 96: Very High 

• 83 – 89: High 

• 76 – 82: Low 

• 69 – 75: Very Low 

The frequency distribution for the use of the communicative approach in Arabic language 

instruction is presented in Table 1. 

Table 1. Use of the Communicative Approach in Arabic Language Instruction 

Classification Interval Frequency Percentage 

Very High 90 – 96 12 40% 
High 83 – 89 6 20% 
Low 76 – 82 9 30% 
Very Low 69 – 75 3 10% 

 

Based on the data in Table 1, it is evident that 12 students, or 40%, achieved scores between 

90-96, falling within the Very High classification. Meanwhile, 6 students (20%) scored between 83-

89, classified as High. Additionally, 9 students (30%) scored between 76-82, placing them in the 

Low category, while 3 students (10%) fell into the Very Low category with scores between 69-75. 

The overall mean score was 84.8, placing the average result within the High category, with 

an interval range of 83-88. These data suggest that the communicative approach in Arabic language 

instruction at the Hidayatut Thullab Islamic College is generally classified as High. The distribution 

of the communicative approach's effectiveness in Arabic learning can be further visualized in the 

histogram below: 

 
Figure 1 : Histogram 

Figure 1 illustrates that the communicative approach in Arabic language instruction is 

predominantly classified as High, further validating the effectiveness of the method in enhancing 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 2,  August 2024| 100 

 

  

Arabic proficiency. 

 

Descriptive Analysis of Arabic Language Proficiency 

Students' Arabic language proficiency was measured through a questionnaire that captured 

their attitudes toward learning Arabic. To classify the data, the highest and lowest scores were 

identified, and the interval was calculated using the same formula. The classification categories are 

Very High, High, Low, and Very Low, with the scale as follows: 

 

 
The classification is: 

• 66 – 74: Very High 

• 57 – 65: High 

• 48 – 56: Low 

• 39 – 47: Very Low 

Table 2. Arabic Language Proficiency Levels 

Classification Interval Frequency Percentage 

Very High 66 – 74 10 33.3% 

High 57 – 65 11 36.7% 

Low 48 – 56 6 20% 

Very Low 39 – 47 3 10% 

 

Based on the data in Table 2, 10 students (33.3%) reported that the use of the communicative 

approach significantly improved their Arabic language skills, categorizing their proficiency as Very 

High. Another 11 students (36.7%) indicated that the communicative approach positively 

influenced their learning, placing them in the High category. Six students (20%) reported Low 

proficiency despite the use of the communicative approach, while 3 students (10%) remained in 

the Very Low category, indicating minimal improvement. 

The mean score for Arabic language proficiency was 60.3, which falls within the High 

category (interval 58-66), indicating that, on average, students' interest in and proficiency in Arabic 

were positively influenced by the communicative approach. The distribution of Arabic language 

proficiency levels is visualized in the histogram below: 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 2,  August 2024| 101 

 

  

 
Figure 2 : Histogram  

 

The histogram further confirms that most students classify their Arabic proficiency as High, 

suggesting the communicative approach had a beneficial impact on their learning outcomes. 

 

Statistical Analysis 

Following the descriptive analysis, further statistical testing was conducted using SPSS 

version 24. The following statistical tests were performed to validate the findings: 

1. Validity Test: The validity of the questionnaire was confirmed using Pearson's correlation 

coefficient, and all questionnaire items were found to be valid. The results are displayed in 

Table 3: 

Table 3. Validity Test Results 

Item Pearson Correlation Sig. (2-tailed) Result 

1 0.518 0.002 Valid 

... ... ... ... 

2. Reliability Test: The internal consistency of the questionnaire was confirmed using 

Cronbach's Alpha, with a value of 0.948, indicating high reliability. 

 

Table 4. Reliability Test Results 

Cronbach's Alpha Cronbach's Alpha Based on Standardized Items N of Items 

0.948 0.953 30 

3. Normality Test: The normality of the data was assessed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov 

test. The significance values for both the communicative approach and Arabic proficiency 

were greater than 0.05, indicating that the data were normally distributed. 

 

 

 



 
 

  
 
  

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Table 5. Normality Test Results 

Variable Mean Std. Deviation Kolmogorov-Smirnov Z Asymp. Sig. (2-tailed) 

Communicative Approach 84.87 7.64 0.817 0.517 
Arabic Proficiency 60.30 8.97 0.730 0.661 

4. Homogeneity Test: The homogeneity of variance was assessed, and the significance value 

was greater than 0.05, indicating that the data were homogeneous. 

 

Table 6. Homogeneity Test Results 

Levene Statistic df1 df2 Sig. 

0.327 1 28 0.572 

5. Hypothesis Testing: The hypothesis testing confirmed a significant relationship between 

the communicative approach and Arabic proficiency, with a p-value of 0.000, indicating 

that the use of the communicative approach significantly improves Arabic language skills. 

 

Table 7. Hypothesis Test Results 

Model Unstandardized Coefficients (B) Standard Error t Sig. 

Constant 6.060 0.632 9.588 0.000 
Communicative Approach 0.054 0.007 7.243 0.000 

 

Model Summary 

Model R R Square Adjusted R Square Std. Error of the Estimate 

1 0.807 0.652 0.640 0.30531 

 

The R Square value indicates that 65.2% of the variation in students' Arabic language 

proficiency is explained by the communicative approach, with the remaining 34.8% attributed to 

other factors. 

The analysis indicates a significant positive influence of the communicative approach on 

improving Arabic language proficiency among students at the Hidayatut Thullab Islamic College. 

These results align with the findings of previous studies 19, which confirm that a well-designed 

communicative approach enhances both the quality of the learning process and student outcomes 

in Arabic language education. 

 

Discussion 

The findings of this study demonstrate the positive impact of the communicative approach 

on Arabic language proficiency, specifically among students at Hidayatut Thullab Islamic College. 

The results align with previous research that emphasizes the role of the communicative approach 

in improving not only language proficiency but also student motivation and classroom engagement 
20. This study's key outcomes, including the improvement in Arabic speaking skills, validate the 

effectiveness of this approach in transforming Arabic language education from a traditionally rigid 

 
19 Yatasya Syukri, Rehani Rehani, and Fauzana Annova, “Tatwir Wasilah Samiyah Basoriyah Fi Tadris Al-

Mufradat Bistikhdam Benime Li As-Shaf As-Sabi Fi Al-Madrasah Al-Tsanawiyah Al-Hukumiyah 1 Payakumbuh,” 
Lisaanuna Ta`lim Al-Lughah Al-Arabiyah: Jurnal Pendidikan Bahasa Arab 5, no. 2 (2022): 178–190, 
http://dx.doi.org/10.15548/lisaanuna.v5i2.4584. 

20 Al Azzawi and Taha, “Investigating the Intrinsic Motivation toward Learning English at Tikrit University.” 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 2,  August 2024| 103 

 

  

format into a more dynamic, interactive experience. 

 

Effectiveness of the Communicative Approach 

The communicative approach, as implemented in this study, was found to significantly 

improve students' Arabic language proficiency, particularly in terms of speaking skills. The 

frequency distribution (Table 1) revealed that 40% of students fell into the Very High classification, 

while an additional 20% were classified as High, indicating that a substantial majority of students 

responded positively to this method. This supports previous literature, which suggests that 

interaction-based learning fosters greater engagement and retention of language skills 21. 

One of the main advantages of the communicative approach is its emphasis on real-life 

communication tasks that simulate authentic language use 22. This method prioritizes active student 

participation, allowing learners to practice language in contexts that mirror real-world interactions. 

In contrast to traditional methods, which often focus on rote memorization and grammar 

instruction, the communicative approach encourages learners to apply their language skills in 

meaningful ways. This finding is consistent with Brosh 23, who asserts that learning environments 

that prioritize interaction foster deeper language comprehension and more sustainable learning 

outcomes. 

 

Impact on Student Motivation and Engagement 

The positive shift in students' motivation and engagement, as indicated by their increased 

participation and performance, can be largely attributed to the use of the communicative approach. 

According to the data, 33.3% of students classified their language proficiency as Very High, with 

an additional 36.7% reporting High proficiency. This level of student self-assessment underscores 

the motivational power of interactive teaching methodologies. As previous research suggests, 

motivation is a critical factor in successful language acquisition, and methods that engage students 

at a deeper cognitive level, such as the communicative approach, can significantly improve learning 

outcomes 24. 

This study's findings are further supported by Al-Mahrooqi et al. 25, who highlight that 

environments where learners actively participate in communication-based tasks lead to increased 

intrinsic motivation. The structured yet flexible nature of the communicative approach allows 

students to feel more empowered in their learning process, reducing feelings of intimidation and 

 
21 Shillingford and Karlin, “The Role of Intrinsic Motivation in the Academic Pursuits of Nontraditional 

Students”; Prakasa, Tajuddin, and Setiadi, “Mastery of Beginner Level Arabic Vocabulary Writing Ability for Students 
of the Arabic Language Education Study Program, Faculty of Languages and Arts, Universitas Negeri Jakarta.” 

22 Mohd Rushdi and Asbulah, “Higher Education Students’ Engagement and Factors That Constrain Students’ 
Activeness in Learning Arabic Language.” 

23 Hezi Y. Brosh, “Arabic Language-Learning Strategy Preferences among Undergraduate Students,” Studies in 
Second Language Learning and Teaching 9, no. 2 (June 1, 2019): 351–377. 

24 Abi Raad et al., “Medical Education in a Foreign Language and History-Taking in the Native Language in 
Lebanon - a Nationwide Survey”; Efendi et al., “Application of Audiolingual Method in Active Arabic Language 
Learning for Visually Impaired Students.” 

25 Al-Mahrooqi et al., “Characteristics of a Good EFL Teacher: Omani EFL Teacher and Student Perspectives.” 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 2,  August 2024| 104 

 

  

disengagement often associated with language learning 26. The communicative approach 

transforms the classroom into an active learning space, encouraging students to engage with the 

material in a manner that is both enjoyable and effective. 

 

Addressing Traditional Pedagogical Limitations 

One of the central challenges identified in this study was the continued reliance on traditional, 

teacher-centered methods at Hidayatut Thullab Islamic College, which have been ineffective in 

engaging students. Traditional methods, characterized by lecture-based teaching and minimal 

student interaction, have contributed to a disengaged and passive learning environment 27. The 

shift to the communicative approach addressed this limitation by promoting student-centered 

learning, where learners actively participate in discussions, role-plays, and interactive exercises, 

thus improving their speaking proficiency. 

The success of this approach in overcoming the limitations of traditional teaching methods 

underscores the importance of pedagogical innovation in language instruction. As noted by 

Gumilar 28, innovative teaching methods that focus on student engagement and practical 

application are essential in modern education systems, where learners' needs and preferences are 

rapidly evolving. The communicative approach offers a promising solution to the challenges faced 

in Arabic language education, particularly in contexts where traditional methods have failed to 

meet students' learning needs 29. 

 

Challenges and Areas for Improvement 

Despite the overall success of the communicative approach, some challenges remain. While 

20% of students still reported Low proficiency and 10% reported Very Low proficiency, indicating 

that a minority of students did not experience significant improvement. These findings suggest 

that additional support may be needed for students who struggle with the communicative 

approach, possibly due to language anxiety or insufficient foundational skills. Previous research 

has shown that students with lower levels of language proficiency may require scaffolded support 

to fully benefit from interaction-based learning 30. 

Furthermore, while the communicative approach focuses primarily on speaking skills, this 

study reveals that proficiency in other language domains, such as reading and writing, may require 

complementary methods to ensure a holistic language learning experience. This finding is 

 
26 Aiman Natasya Rosaidi, Gayle Mak Su Xin, and Seera A.S., “MALAYSIAN LANGUAGE LEARNERS’ 

PERCEPTION TOWARDS LEARNING ARABIC PASS THE CRITICAL PERIOD.” 
27 Khasawneh and Khasawneh, “Linguistic Needs of Non-Native Students of Arabic Language at Saudi 

Universities.” 
28 Gumilar, “Use of Malay Arabic Scriptures of Jawi Pegon in Number of Ancient Metal Currencies in Indonesia 

from Pre-Independence to Early Independence.” 
29 Bružaitė-Liseckienė, “The Motivation of the Foreign Students of Vilnius University to Learn Lithuanian as a 

Second Language.” 
30 Kasem, “Innovation in Language Education: Enriching Arabic Language Learner Experiences and Proficiency 

In2D and 3D Environments.” 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 2,  August 2024| 105 

 

  

consistent with Aziz et al. 31, who argue that balanced language instruction, which includes a 

combination of communicative and traditional methods, may yield the best results in improving 

overall language competency. 

The communicative approach has proven to be an effective method for improving Arabic 

language proficiency at Hidayatut Thullab Islamic College. The interactive nature of this approach 

fosters a dynamic learning environment that promotes student engagement and enhances speaking 

skills. The findings from this study highlight the need for further pedagogical innovation in Arabic 

language instruction, particularly in shifting away from traditional, teacher-centered methods 

toward more student-centered, communicative approaches. 

Although the communicative approach demonstrated significant success, continued efforts 

are needed to address the challenges faced by students who struggle with language learning, 

particularly those with low proficiency. A balanced approach that integrates both communicative 

and traditional methods may be necessary to ensure that all students achieve language competency. 

Future research should explore the long-term effects of the communicative approach on overall 

language proficiency and investigate how this method can be adapted to improve reading and 

writing skills in addition to speaking proficiency. 

 

 

Conclusion 

Based on the findings and discussions presented, several conclusions can be drawn. First, the 

use of the communicative approach in Arabic language instruction, as measured by students' 

evaluation scores, falls within the High classification, with a median score of 84.9. This score, when 

analyzed within the interval scale of the study, is categorized as High, ranging between 82-88. This 

indicates that the communicative approach has been effectively implemented in improving 

students' engagement and performance in Arabic. 

Second, the students' interest in learning Arabic, as assessed through the questionnaire 

responses, is classified as Good. This conclusion is based on the mean score of 60.3, which, when 

converted into the interest classification scale, also falls within the Good category, specifically in 

the interval range of 58-66. This demonstrates that the communicative approach has positively 

influenced students' motivation to learn Arabic. 

Third, the hypothesis testing showed that the use of PowerPoint as a teaching tool had a 

significant impact on students' interest in learning Arabic. The hypothesis test yielded a significance 

value of 0.000, which is lower than the alpha level of 0.05, indicating a statistically significant effect. 

Therefore, it can be concluded that the use of media such as PowerPoint plays a crucial role in 

enhancing students’ interest and engagement in Arabic language learning. 

. 

 

 

 
31 Muhammad Roy Aziz Haryana et al., “Virtual Reality Learning Media with Innovative Learning Materials to 

Enhance Individual Learning Outcomes Based on Cognitive Load Theory,” The International Journal of Management 
Education 20, no. 3 (2022): 100657. 



 
 

  
 
  

Volume 9, Number 2,  August 2024| 106 

 

  

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and Sola Aoun Bahous. “Medical Education in a Foreign Language and History-Taking in 
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