Social studies teachers' opinions on the problems faced by foreign students in the teaching process of middle school social studies course

In this study, the problems encountered by foreign students in their learning processes in the social studies course were evaluated in line with the opinions of social studies teachers. The research was conducted using the holistic multiple case study method, one of the qualitative research designs. The universe of the study consisted of foreign students studying in Antalya in the 2024-2025 academic year, while the sample consisted of social studies teachers selected on a voluntary basis. The research findings revealed that the lack of language and cultural adaptation of foreign students negatively affected their learning processes in the social studies course. Inadequate Turkish language skills limit both the academic success and social adaptation of students; it makes participation in classes and communication within the group difficult. In addition, the difficulties experienced by students in adapting to Turkish culture and the social environment make their learning processes even more complicated. The language, terminology and scope of the social studies course pose additional difficulties for foreign students. It was determined that students' conceptual understanding was insufficient in abstract subjects such as history, geography and cultural heritage, and that they had problems especially in establishing cause-effect relationships. It has been determined that students who are alienated from topics such as national culture and nationalism have low interest and motivation in classes.