ARABIC LANGUAGE ACQUISITION AS A SECOND LANGUAGE AMONG STUDENTS OF UIN MAULANA MALIK IBRAHIM MALANG

Abstract

In the last few decades, students at UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang have been faced with demands to understand and master Arabic as a second language. Some parties argue that this is a natural thing, given the important role of Arabic in religious and academic contexts, there are also views that state that the acquisition of Arabic as a second language for students of UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang is largely the result of the efforts of the learning environment. This study aims to determine the opportunities and challenges of Arabic language acquisition at UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang. This study also reflects the efforts made by students to overcome the limitations of their Arabic knowledge and skills. This research uses field method with descriptive-qualitative approach, data collected through observation and interview.  The results showed that there are three opportunities that can be utilized by students in the process of acquiring Arabic as a second language, namely: (1) enrichment of curriculum materials, (2) utilization of the learning environment, (3) academic support. The challenges faced by students involve: (1) language interference, (2) significant differences between the first language and the second language, (3) the diversity of students' educational backgrounds. The findings of this study illustrate three steps taken by students to overcome the lag in Arabic language knowledge and skills, namely: (1) actively participating in Arabic group study activities, (2) participating in the activities of the BSO on campus, and (3) seeking additional support through private Arabic tests outside the environment