Effectiveness of mother-tongue based instruction in teaching science

 SUMMARY

EXISTING KNOWLEDGE

1. Cognitive Benefits of Mother Tongue Instruction: Research suggests that teaching in students' first language (L1) improves comprehension and encourages engagement, especially in foundational subjects like science.

2. Policy Support for L1 Use in Education: Educational policies in various countries promote mother tongue-based instruction at early stages, aiming to strengthen foundational learning and comprehension.

3. Implementation Challenges: Despite policy support, issues such as limited resources, lack of standardized materials in local languages, and inadequate teacher training restrict the widespread use of mother tongue instruction in science education.

NEW INSIGHTS 

1. Improved Science Learning Outcomes: Primary students taught science in their mother tongue showed significantly better comprehension, retention, and critical thinking compared to those taught in a second language. Using L1 particularly helped in grasping complex scientific concepts.

2. Higher Student Engagement: Students learning in their native language were more engaged and enthusiastic in science classes, showing greater willingness to participate and discuss ideas.

3. Enhanced Teacher Confidence: Teachers reported feeling more effective teaching science in L1, noting that it allowed them to explain concepts more clearly and connect lessons to students' everyday experiences.

PUTTING RESEARCH INTO PRACTICE

1. Developing Culturally Relevant Materials: Create and distribute science materials in local languages, using familiar cultural examples to illustrate scientific concepts for primary students.

2. Teacher Training for L1 Instruction: Provide professional development to equip teachers with skills for teaching science in the mother tongue, including methods for simplifying complex content.

3. Gradual L1 Integration into Later Grades: Consider expanding mother tongue-based science instruction to higher grades progressively, allowing students to build a solid science foundation in L1 before moving to bilingual or L2 instruction.

REFERENCE: 

Article Title. Examining the effectiveness of the mother tongue-based instruction in teaching science at the primary level. 

Authors: Sophomore Talle Vacalares and colleagues 

Journal: International Journal  of Advance Research And Innovative Ideas In Education Year: 2023