Abstract
This study examined the lived experiences as an Islamic studies and Arabic languages (ISAL). Particularly, this study used a narrative research design with students’ aging from 18 years old as the participants in the study. There where ten participants involved for the individual interview and another 7 participants for the focus group interview. The data collections happened using a face-to-face interview and the data gathered has been analyze using Braun and Clarke model, using a self-made interview guide questionnaire to contextualized the questions. The result revealed that the challenges faced by Islamic Studies and Arabic Languages (ISAL) teachers, these are the themes emerged by the participants: cultural sensitivity and misunderstanding, limited resources and support, and language proficiency and communication barriers. Meanwhile, there are three challenges experienced by teachers in perceptions of ISAL teachers in public school education regarding their professional development which include: perceptions of professional development, impact on classroom practices, and need for tailored development programs. Furthermore, there are three emerging themes about how do the cultural and linguistic backgrounds of ISAL teachers in public school education influence their lived experiences in the classroom and that includes: cultural and linguistic influences, strategies for navigating differences, and interactions with students and colleagues. This study recommended that educational institutions and policymakers prioritize the development and implementation of culturally responsive professional development programs for Islamic Studies and Arabic Languages (ISAL) teachers. Tailored workshops and training initiatives should be designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities arising from the cultural and linguistic aspects of ISAL teaching, equipping teachers with effective strategies for navigating differences in the classroom.
Keywords: Islamic Studies and Arabic Languages (ISAL) Teachers, Narrative Research Design, Municipality of Pigcawayan, Philippines