Welcome to your one and only course on Udemy that focuses exclusively on the Arabic Culture.
Are you learning the Arabic language? Have you encountered that awkward moment yet where you totally said or did the wrong thing at the wrong time? If not, trust me, it is coming soon, unless… Well, unless you start learning about the Arabic culture. Learning the “mechanics” of a second language such as its vocabulary and grammar rules does not necessarily mean that you can communicate effectively in/with a target community. The other essential element for effective communication is the cultural bubble in which the language lives and is being used. In other words, knowing what to say, how, when and where. Learning about the target culture will bring life to the language you are learning as you start understanding why people say and do things in certain ways that might be very “different” from what you are used to in your own culture. Needless to say that learning about other cultures through language goes beyond the obvious benefit of learning about different cultures; it also helps you develop deeper appreciation of the differences and similarities that naturally exist between cultures, as well as have a better understanding of your own cultural practices and perspectives, and ultimately help you embrace a more global view of culture.
Because I deeply believe that learning about culture goes hand in hand with learning the language from day one when you start learning your alphabet and basic greetings, I have decided to keep this course in English just to make it accessible to learners from all levels including beginners. Ultimately, the focus of this course is culture not language per se, you will still learn some related language expressions though.
The cultural practices and perspectives explored in this course focus on the Levant area, specifically Syria. It is important to keep in mind that these practices do not represent the entire Arab world which has a population of over 400 million people, an area of over 5 million mi2 (13 million km2), over 22 countries, and extends over two continents. Like anywhere in the world, cultural practices differ greatly by country, region, and city. They are also influenced by many factors such as history, religion, and social norms. Thus, the cultural practices and perspectives presented in this course should be seen while bearing in mind these factors.
With clear explanation and authentic materials, the course will help you explore and learn more about the practices, perspectives, and products of the Arabic culture. This includes:
1- Greetings: kissing, handshake, hugs…
In this session you will explore the different types of greetings and how they are used in the Arab culture. Some of the questions answered include: When do people kiss, hug or just handshake? What do they do in formal vs informal settings? How to politely greet and still respect the religious and social boundaries?
2- Marriage: process, arrangements, wedding…
In this session you will explore and learn more about marriage customs and traditions in the Arab culture. Some of the questions answered include: Who is responsible for wedding costs? Who is responsible for renting/buying a home? How many wedding parties are there?
3- Birth of a newborn: practices, baby shower…
In this session you will explore how a newborn is welcomed into the family. Some of the questions answered include: Who is present at the hospital during the delivery? When does a baby shower occur? What is Aqiqa and Tahneek?
4- Death: burial, condolences…
In this session you will explore the different practices and rituals performed when a person passes away. Some of the questions answered include: What does an obituary include? What happens before burial? When, how and where condolences are offered?
5- Homes: styles, rooms, toilets…
In this session you will explore the different types of houses and rooms. Some of the questions answered include: What is a guest room? Where does the washer go in the house? How are toilets different and why do they have a faucet inside?
