Validity and Reliability of the Arabic Language Engagement, Motivation, and Learning Strategies Instrument among Malaysian Students in the Middle East

Abstract

Validity and reliability are essential aspects in evaluating the consistency and accuracy of any research instrument. This paper examines the validity and reliability tests conducted on an instrument designed to measure the levels of engagement, motivation, and Arabic language learning strategies among Malaysian students in the Middle East. The questionnaire comprises 65 items categorized into three main constructs. Face and content validity were verified by a panel of five experts in the field of Arabic language to ensure the relevance of each item and the clarity of the instrument for respondents. A total of 35 respondents were randomly selected from third- and fourth-year students majoring in Islamic Studies and Arabic Language at universities in Egypt and Jordan that offer related programmes. Findings from the pilot study revealed that each construct of the instrument demonstrated a very high Cronbach’s Alpha (?) coefficient value, ranging from 0.95 to 0.97. These results indicate that the questionnaire used in this study is both valid and reliable for use in the actual research.