Ibn Khaldun’s Views On Language Learning: Towards A Broader Perspective

To date, Muqaddimah or Introduction, a masterpiece written in the 14th century, still stands strong as a reference for researchers from various disciplines around the world. In this work, the Islamic thinker and historian, Ibn Khaldun, expounds his extensive knowledge and experience in a wide range of scientific disciplines within a historical account and sociological analysis, including his views on language learning, which were discussed at length in the latter part of this book. This study, however, aims to broaden Ibn Khaldun’s perspectives on language learning by exploring the relevance of his ideas for foreign language learners in a contemporary context, specifically among Malaysian youths. Ibn Khaldun’s thoughts on language learning form the foundation of this research since the researchers seek to assess the applicability of his views to non-native Arabic speakers. This study is supported by a survey conducted on 68 Malaysian students who are studying or have studied abroad, to examine the vital role of hearing in the language learning process, as proposed by Ibn Khaldun in the Muqaddimah. The findings of this study reveal that Ibn Khaldun’s thoughts are pertinent to Malaysian foreign language learners and could be further enhanced by integrating modern technologies into the learning process.