Can Arabic Proverbs Enhance Arabic-Speaking Students’ Comprehension of Financial Concepts?: An Empirical Study in Randomly Selected Business Schools in Dubai

ABSTRACT

In this study, we investigated the use of Arabic proverbs and quotes for teaching finance courses to Arabic-speaking students who are nonnative speakers of English. The study found that the use of Arabic proverbs and quotes greatly enhances the students’ comprehension of the finance topics covered. Similarly, the study revealed that the use of Arabic proverbs and quotes for Arabic-speaking students in teaching finance courses creates rapport between the student and instructor, thus enhancing learning. Finally, the study confirmed that the use of Arabic proverbs and quotes for Arabic-speaking students in teaching finance courses does not lead to confusion or complicate matters, but enhances comprehension and bolsters retention.

KEYWORDS:

• Finance teaching strategies
• Proverbs and quotes
• Arabic
• Arabic-speaking finance students

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Mohammed H. Warsame

Mohammed H. Warsame, received his Ph.D. in Banking and Finance from Durham University. (UK). Dr. Warsame also holds two prestigious professional qualifications, namely, ACCA (Chartered Certified Accountant) and CIPA (Certified Islamic Professional Accountant). Dr. Warsame is currently a faculty member and the former chairman of Finance and Economics Department at the University of Sharjah, UAE.

Edward M. Ireri, is a senior research fellow at the University of Kabianga, Kenya. He is also the Senior Research Scientist and Director at Smart Health EQAS Consultants Limited company, with over 10 years’ experience. His main interests are in multi-disciplinary research collaborations, survey analysis, SEM, and CB-SEM modeling.