| Summary: | This article describes research into Iraq War Veterans studying
Arabic at the college level post-deployment. What is it about their
exposure to the language and culture that motivates them to study the
language after serving in Iraq? Few research studies exist in the area of
Veterans’ education, a federally recognized minority. The study’s
purpose was to explore Iraq war veterans’ language learning
motivations and described their experiences, through the use of
qualitative research methodology and the development of case study
narratives. Results indicate that understanding the Veteran experience
can foster a diversity-friendly, inclusive environment in the critical
language classroom. There are broader implications for veteran higher
education, other Less Commonly Taught Languages, alternative
pedagogies, non-traditional student education, K-12, foreign language
education policy, foreign relations, diversity & equity in the classroom,
and national security.
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