Learning via Zoom during the Covid-19 pandemic: benefits for Arab students in Hebrew academic institutes in Israel

ABSTRACT This study examines the impact of distance learning via Zoom on Arab students in Hebrew academia in Israel, from an academic and socio-individual level. The qualitative research methodology implemented in this study is based on in-depth interviews with 28 male and female master’s students in two academic institutions in Israel. The findings show that learning despite certain difficulties, studying remotely via Zoom made the Arab students more comfortable, and were encouraged to participate more in the lessons. It seems that when studying in class with Jewish students in these institutions arouses fear and self-censorship among Arab students, in turn decreasing their desire and confidence to express themselves in class. As such, learning from home while ‘hiding’ behind the camera decreases their inhibition and offers new opportunities for greater self-expression.