Re-place-ing space in Libyan women’s language learning and culture mapping

Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, Philippines

^* Corresponding author: melicent09@yahoo.com

Abstract

Libya embarks on a new era in world relations where learning English has become a necessity. This study investigated how Libyan women managed to study abroad, found their place and learned a language despite the country’s cultural subjection against women. It explored what motivated them to study English, how they felt about the learning environment, and the process of engaging themselves in intercultural exchange. Twelve female Libyan were subjects of this study. This study utilized a combination of the descriptive and analytical research designs. Since this is a qualitative study, the researcher used thematic analysis in analyzing and interpreting gathered data. It is founded in Milton Rokeach’s Theory which says that each person has a highly organized system of beliefs, attitudes, and values, which guides behavior. Personal motivation and the desire to live through another culture without compromising its own concluded this study. The cultural construct that Libyan women can’t decide and can’t do a lot is unacceptable to these women who believe that they could play a very significant presence in the new government.