English-only Versus Mother Tongue

SUMMARY

EXISTING KNOWLEDGE

1. English-Only Approach: In many educational systems, an English-only approach is used to improve students’ fluency and global competitiveness. This method immerses learners fully in English, with the expectation that constant exposure will enhance proficiency.

2. Mother Tongue in Education: Research supports the use of the mother tongue in early education, suggesting that students understand concepts better and feel more comfortable expressing themselves in their native language, especially in the initial stages of learning.

3. Language and Confidence: Studies indicate that language learning influences students' self-confidence, with fluency in a foreign language like English often linked to higher self-esteem in academic and social settings.

NEW INSIGHTS FROM THIS STUDY

1. Impact on Fluency: The study shows that students who were taught in an English-only environment developed greater fluency over time compared to those who were allowed to use their mother tongue. However, the fluency gains were mostly among students who already had a foundation in English.

2. Self-Confidence Boost with Mother Tongue: Students permitted to use their mother tongue reported higher levels of self-confidence in classroom participation, as they felt more comfortable expressing themselves without the pressure of using a foreign language.

3. Fluency-Confidence Disconnect: The study highlights a gap between fluency and self-confidence; while English-only instruction increased fluency, it sometimes negatively impacted self-confidence, particularly for students with low English proficiency.

PUTTING RESEARCH INTO PRACTICE

1. Balanced Language Instruction: Implement a balanced approach that combines English instruction with the mother tongue, allowing students to build confidence while gradually increasing English fluency.

2. Supportive Language Environment: Create a supportive classroom environment where students feel comfortable using both languages, helping to reduce anxiety and promote active participation.

3. Tailored Language Learning Programs: Develop language programs that cater to students' individual proficiency levels, offering additional support for those struggling with English while encouraging confident language use in both languages

REFERENCE: 

Article Title: English-only Versus Mother Tongue: An Analysis on Students’ Fluency and Self-confidence Authors: Sophomore T. Vacalares

Journal: International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science Year: 2023