General Information about Arab Americans

100 Questions and Answers About Arab Americans: A comprehensive primer

Communication Considerations

Certainly, not all Arab American students speak Arabic, and only some live in homes where Arabic is spoken. However, information about communication styles and patterns is helpful for teachers of Arab American students because communication preferences are passed on through generations. The table below articulates the communication preferences of dominant American culture as well as Arab culture. Consider how this information might change your instructional style and parent contact.

Table adapted from: Zaharna, R. S. 1995. Bridging cultural differences: American public relations practices and arab communication patterns Public Relations Review 21, 241-255.