Developing Reading Arabic Skills Among University Students in South Sulawesi

Abstract

Although research on Arabic reading skills among students has been widely documented, few studies discuss this issue from the geographical perspective of Islamic universities. Thus, this study aims to analyze the form of guidance and strategies for developing Arabic reading skills among students of Islamic Universities in South Sulawesi. This research uses an explanatory case study research design. Data collection was carried out by in-depth interviews with interested parties. Data analysis uses grounded theory. The findings showed that the form of fostering kitab kuning (Islamic classical texts) reading skills among students includes the selection of appropriate curriculum and syllabus, the use of the latest pedagogical approaches, activating mentorship, the use of peer learning, the use of multimedia and visual data sources, and the use of supporting and parallel texts. In addition, the results also show that the strategies for developing kitab kuning reading skills among students include the involvement of university stakeholders, the use of integrative learning methods, the creation of student dormitories, and increased budget allocations. This research implies the importance of a coordinated and integrated approach in designing and implementing educational strategies that educate, inspire, and empower students. In addition, the findings also offer important insights into ways that educational institutions can improve learning effectiveness and better prepare students for their future.