The challenges for Arab lecturer in Hebrew academic institutions, and how his presence impacts the Arab students

This study addresses the status and conduct of the Arab lecturer in Jewish-Hebrew academia in Israel, and how this impacts Arab students. The study is conducted through the self-research of a case study, in light of my having served as an Arab lecturer in Hebrew academia for more than two decades. The case study is based on my students’ written reports submitted over the past three years, from two different courses. The findings indicate that an Arab lecturer who is proud of being an Arab and is confident in himself can increase the self-confidence of Arab students, encouraging them to speak and participate in class. One main factor that enhances Arab students is legitimizing the use of the Arab language in lessons, enabling them to participate and speak in Arabic. Combined, this leads to the legitimization of the Arab students’ identity, enabling them to sound their voice.