College Life in the United States and Saudi Arabia - Essay Example

College Life There are many differences that exist in the learning systems in the world. These differences may existfor different reasons. However, most of them stem from the fact that societies, cultures, and sometimes the attitude of the people involved are different. To explain the differences that exist, no two countries or regions can better be used than the United States and Saudi Arabia. These two regions represent some of the most diverse societies that might ever set foot on this planet, and it is this diversity that promotes the integrity, self-reliance, and growth of all the people involved. College life in these regions may differ a great deal, and it is with a great deal of effort that most students adapt from one environment to another (Snider 195). This paper will examine some aspects of college that are present in these regions, and how the differences that exist between the two set them apart from every other region. Various institutions have certain aspects that make them what they are in today’s modern world. It is imperative that institutions, especially higher learning ones, have certain aspects that can tie, attribute, or link their professionalism or success to their education system. Vast improvements in the nature of technology, the level of commitment when it comes to counseling and discipline, and even the protection and observation of individual rights in many institutions may be attributed to the rise in performance levels across the globe, hence; achievement of personal and overall goals and objectives in the different regions present (Snider 201). One aspect that requires attention from all fronts may be freedom exhibited in most higher learning institutions. Various scholars have discussed and dissected this aspect, and some of the implications that arise from it. Hodges James, O’Donnell James, and John William, “Cradle of conscience: Ohio’s independent colleges and universities.” 2003. Findlay University is one of the most accredited universities in the U.S. The range of academic disciplines it offers makes it a suitable choice for different learners and students that wish to join any university. Foreign students present in this university have an easy time adapting to the university life as they are able to choose the curriculum in which they want to enroll in, ranging from business, environmental safety and occupational health management. This progress has seen them increase structures in the famous Davis Street, which can now host some of their pharmacy programs. The capability of the university to house many students has enabled it to acquire different students, from all walks of life, to enroll in its different programs. Sadly, universities in Saudi Arabia may not have the same opportunities as universities in this region as it is difficult for them to integrate the learning system that is common in most learning institutions in the world. A lot has changed since the inception of the University. For example, it became the first university to offer the nation’s first bachelor’s degree in hazardous waste studies, which is referred to environmental safety and occupational health management. The technology available in the University allows the various activities to take place, at the ease and convenience of the students. Saudi Arabia may need to look for inspiration in such advancement, and embrace the technological advancement that is seen in most of the campus innovative centers in American universities. The classrooms are now increasing in size and the structures modified to suit the diverse needs of students. One thing that stands out from Saudi Arabia universities is their provision of free education. The U.S is yet to embrace this, which means that most of the people in Saudi Arabia are being accorded the chance to achieve more in terms of education. An increase in the number of students indicates that people appreciate the University and all it offers. In Saudi Arabia, only a small number of students can be recorded in the universities that are present in the region. This is because many students are taught in the value of life outside school surroundings, which means that most of them look for different paths away from school life. This is different from the U.S and its beliefs because parents tend to rely more on education, and so their children are inclined to also do so. The relationships that exist between the students and faculty members are also something worth noting. The closeness between the parties involved means that students are free to do what is required of them, while getting attention from their teachers who are always available to attend to their needs. Separation is what Saudi universities call for, and this may infringe on the ability and possibility of relationships to develop. Sedgwick, Robert. “Education in Saudi Arabia.” 2001. Over the years, Saudi Arabia has undergone numerous changes in the education system. For example, the education of girls that was under the General Presidency for Girls’ Education is now under the government’s Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia. These changes have allowed for the different groups present to notice an increase in the number of female students in most learning institutions, especially higher learning institutions. In the United States, the education of all children is paramount, but it is not based on religious lines as with Saudi Arabia, where all students must undergo religious studies. This is even at the university level where both sexes, male and female, are required to undergo these studies alongside other subjects. There is a difference between how universities from both regions relate with their students. In the U.S., students may not be paid at the end of the month for being students, but they might receive student loans. In Saudi Arabia, the situation is different. Students might get paid for attending classes and with the education being free, there is no need for student loans to pay for fees. Moreover, the number of universities in these regions also differs. In the U.S., the number of universities is particularly high with almost every state having a college or university from which every academic credential is applicable around the world. In Saudi Arabia, the universities are minimal, but based on their overall population, this number is sufficient for every person willing to pursue higher education. Moores-Abdool, Whitney, et al. “Learning Preferences of Saudi University Students with Native English Speaking Teachers.” 2009. The teaching of the foreign language, English, is a tricky subject in Saudi Arabia. English in the United States is also taught, but may not present a problem to many of the people in the region in the sense that the interaction may not be at odds with the people in the region. However, in Saudi Arabia, it may be difficult to incorporate the language in a society that believes everything that comes from the West is corrupted. The host country is likely to be at loggerheads in trying to find ways in which these teachers may fit into society without raising any alarms. In the U.S., not many people are against the idea of foreigners getting into the country to teach a foreign language. This may be one of the biggest differences between the two nations. College life in its entirety depends solely on the student going through that life. It is upon them to build on it and ensure their survival after school. Freedom can exist in many forms, from students taking it upon themselves to choose whichever curriculum they want, depending on the social context they find themselves engaged in on a regular basis. Focus must be placed on the nature of learning, growth and development. Also, the aspect of living together must be in the equation of all institutions, both in the United States and Saudi Arabia. Moreover, all institutions of higher learning that cater to a large number of culturally diverse, ethnic and religious groups should invest in creating awareness for the benefit of society, in the long run (Snider 259). Works Cited Hodges, James A., O’Donnell H. James, and John O. William. Cradle of conscience: Ohio’s independent colleges and universities. New York: American Printing Press, 2003. Print. Moores-Abdool, Whitney, Yahya Noorchaya, and Unzueta H. Caridad. Learning Preferences of Saudi University Students with Native English Speaking Teachers. Dept. of Teaching and Learning: Florida International University, Miami, 2009. Print. Sedgwick, Robert. “Education in Saudi Arabia.” WENR 14.6 (2001). Print. Snider, Mark D. Colleges in the Midwest. New York: American Printing Press, 2011. Print. Read More