First and continuing generation Jewish and Arab-Palestinian female students in Israeli peripheral college: a comparative perspective

The present study focuses on the characteristics and tendencies of Jewish and Arab-Palestinian female “first-generation students” (FGS) and “continuing-generation students” (CGS). The drastic changes of learning procedures during COVID-19, a time of remote learning and economic crisis, are also examined. COVID-19 had a significant impact on various dimensions of students’ lives worldwide. Additionally, Remote learning has further compounded challenges for minorities and FGS, who already face difficulties balancing work, self-care, and family responsibilities even under regular circumstances. Furthermore, focusing on female students from a gender perspective adds another layer to the analysis, strengthening the understanding of their experience which is already challenged as FGS. These insights are important, not only to optimize preparation for the next crisis, but also to understand the challenges faced by FGS in normal times. In addition, these insights may help to prevent the marginalization of these students who are at risk of dropping out.