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Reclaiming transformation for inclusive and multilingual education through linguistic landscape (LL) in South Africa and Malaysia
Citation
Kretzer, M. M., & Ong, T. W. S. (2023). Reclaiming transformation for inclusive and multilingual education through linguistic landscape (LL) in South Africa and Malaysia. In S. D. Brunn & R. Kehrein (Eds.), Language, society and the state in a changing world (pp. 307-336). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-18146-7_13
Author
Kretzer, Michael M.
•
Ong, Teresa Wai See
Abstract
Transformation for inclusive education through a multilingual language policy remains a challenge in postcolonial countries. Although 11 official languages are supposed to be treated equally in postapartheid South Africa, the reality looks different. Like (most) postcolonial settings, the previous colonial language(s) dominate. Likewise, in Malaysia, any language(s) are allowed to be learnt and taught, but only dominant community languages are used at primary schools.
An analysis of language policy documents, interviews with educational stakeholders, and an analysis of linguistic landscape offer an insight into language practices. The findings reveal that daily language practices are more complex, heterogeneous, and intertwined than official documents outline. Reality differs often from the envisaged official language policy. Community languages are more vivid and visible at schools in both countries. Linguistic landscape is significantly dominated by English, but African and Chinese languages are visible and reflect partly the linguistic reality of the surrounding community of schools. Interviewees highlight the huge benefits of multilingual language policy especially for the disadvantaged communities. Hence, this study urges for an equal treatment to be given to nondominant and smaller community languages in multilingual countries to reclaim their voices and establish a meaningful and inclusive education for all students regardless of their first language.
Date Issued
2023
ISBN
9783031181450 (print)
9783031181467 (online)
Publisher
Springer