The Use of Mother Tongue/Indigenous language in Learning
Duncan Osoro
Education x Tech || Learning Specialist || Curriculum, Administration & Digital Transformation Consultant || Teacher training and Professional Dv't || Tvet Trainer
Teaching using a learner's mother tongue or indigenous language can be effective, especially in the early stages of education. It helps learners develop a strong foundation in their native language and makes it easier for them to understand and engage with the curriculum. However, when assessments and the broader education system are in a different language like English, it can create challenges. Learners may struggle to perform well on assessments if they are not proficient in the language of instruction.
Balancing mother tongue education with the need to learn a global language like English is a complex issue. It's often recommended to gradually transition learners into the second language while maintaining a strong foundation in their mother tongue. This approach, known as bilingual education, can be effective in promoting both language proficiency and academic success. It's important to consider the specific context, the needs of the learners, and the goals of the education system when making decisions about language of instruction.
Pros of Mother Tongue/Indigenous Language Education.
Teaching in a learner's native language helps preserve their culture, heritage, and traditions, which is crucial for maintaining cultural identity.
2. Better Understanding
Learners often understand complex concepts better when initially taught in their mother tongue, which can lead to a stronger foundation in various subjects.
3. Improved Literacy Skills
Early education in the mother tongue can improve literacy skills, which can be transferred to learning other languages.
4. Enhanced Cognitive Skills
Multilingualism, especially when rooted in a strong mother tongue, can improve cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities.
领英推荐
Cons of Mother Tongue/Indigenous Language in Education
Transitioning from mother tongue to a second language like English for assessments can be challenging, potentially affecting academic performance
2. Global Language Requirement
English is often considered a global language for international communication and opportunities, making proficiency in English important.
Blending Mother Tongue Education with 21st-Century Education
Bilingual Education_Implement bilingual education programs that gradually introduce the second language (e.g English) while maintaining a strong foundation in the mother tongue.
Multilingualism_Promote multilingualism by offering opportunities for learners to become proficient in both their mother tongue and the language of instruction (e.g English).
Having a Culturally Inclusive Curriculum_Adapt the curriculum to incorporate aspects of the local culture, making it relevant and engaging for learners.
Teacher Training_Provide teachers with training and resources to effectively teach in a bilingual or multilingual context, ensuring they are comfortable with both languages.
Assessment Strategies_ Develop assessment methods that allow learners to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the language they are most comfortable with, especially in the early stages of education.
Community Involvement_Engage the local community and parents in the education process, emphasizing the importance of preserving the mother tongue while preparing learners for a globalized society.
School Leadership | Communication | People Management | Human Resources | Curriculum Coordination | Parent Engagement | Staff Evaluation | Data-Driven Decision Making | Team Leadership
1 年Great thoughts here. Is it not time for us to find ways of creating content in our indegenous or native languages? The Chinese, Japanese, Russians have done it. It would be interesting to have a gadget like a phone that uses my mother tounge or have teach Geology in my village. That would be fun!