Mother tongue for different types of educational systems

SUMMARY

Existing Knowledge:

1. Importance of Mother Tongue in Education: It is widely recognized that mother tongue instruction supports cognitive development and aids in better comprehension, particularly in the early stages of education. Students tend to learn more effectively when taught in their first language.

2. Medium of Instruction and Academic Success: The language used as the medium of instruction can significantly impact students' academic performance. Research suggests that students learning in a second or foreign language often face additional challenges, which can affect their overall success.

3. Varied Approaches in Different Educational Systems: Educational systems around the world vary in their approach to the medium of instruction. Some prioritize the national or regional language, while others emphasize global languages like English, depending on cultural, political, and economic factors.

New Insights from this Study:

1. Context-Dependent Relevance: The study highlights that the importance of mother tongue versus a second language as the medium of instruction depends heavily on the educational system. For example, systems focused on global competencies may prioritize English, while others emphasize cultural preservation through mother tongue education.

2. Impact on Educational Equity: The choice of the medium of instruction can either widen or bridge educational inequalities. Systems that overlook the mother tongue can disadvantage students from minority language backgrounds, creating disparities in learning outcomes.

3. Dynamic Role of Mother Tongue Across Educational Stages: The study finds that the role of the mother tongue may vary at different educational stages. Early education benefits significantly from mother tongue instruction, while secondary and higher education may see a shift towards second language instruction to meet broader educational goals.

Putting Research into Practice:

1. Adapting Language Policies to Educational Goals: Policymakers should tailor language policies to align with the specific goals of the educational system. For example, systems focused on global integration may balance early mother tongue education with gradual introduction of a global language.

2. Supporting Multilingual Education: To promote educational equity, systems can adopt multilingual models that incorporate both the mother tongue and additional languages. This can include bilingual or transitional programs that support a smoother linguistic progression.

3. Involving Communities in Language Decisions: Engaging local communities and stakeholders in decisions about the medium of instruction can ensure that policies reflect cultural values and address students’ needs. This can foster a more inclusive and culturally responsive educational environment.

REFERENCE:

Article Title: The relevance of medium of instruction and mother tongue for different types of educational systems

Authors: Bert van Pinxteren

Journal: International Journal of Educational Development Year: 2023