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Early Language Learning in Context

A Critical Socioeducational Perspective

David Hayes author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Multilingual Matters

Published:19th Aug '22

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Early Language Learning in Context cover

This insightful book critiques foreign language teaching policies, advocating for a diverse approach that includes regional and indigenous languages alongside English in early education.

This book critically examines early school foreign language teaching policy and practice across six geographical contexts. It highlights the global trend that prioritizes English, arguing for a more inclusive approach that appreciates multilingualism and the significance of regional and indigenous languages. The author emphasizes the need to diversify foreign language instruction beyond just English, advocating for a richer linguistic landscape in early education.

The analysis focuses on four Asian contexts—Malaysia, South Korea, Sri Lanka, and Thailand—while also drawing comparisons with practices in Canada and Finland. The book explores how socioeducational and cultural factors influence policy implementation, identifying elements that either enhance or hinder effective language learning. It critiques the prevailing belief that proficiency in English is essential for national success in a globalized economy, suggesting that this mindset is not only misguided but also perpetuates inequalities within educational systems.

Early Language Learning in Context calls for a paradigm shift in how foreign languages are taught in primary schools. By advocating for a broader perspective that includes a variety of languages, the author aims to enrich the educational experience for young learners. This book is designed for educational policymakers, researchers, and students who are keen on exploring early foreign language education within state systems worldwide.

Hayes’ detailed and critical analyses of early language learning policies in six different countries – Thailand, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Finland, and Canada – beautifully and powerfully illustrate the complex realities and importance of situating policies in specific societal and linguistic contexts. This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in language education policies. * Yuko Goto Butler, Graduate School of Education, University of Pennsylvania, USA *
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book because it educated me about little-known contexts of early language education, thereby critically analysing – and partly dissecting – the political, economic and educational rationales underlying policies and practice of early language learning. The spirit of equity and justice ingrained in many aspects of the analysis and argumentation in this book is admirable. * Eva Wilden, University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany *
This book brings alive the vital role of the socio-educational context on the success, or otherwise, of foreign language learning in primary school. The book bristles with research insights from a range of contexts and provides a solid basis for re-imagining language education in state-sector primary education globally. It is a wonderful resource for language policy makers, researchers, teachers, and teacher educators. * Kuchah Kuchah, University of Leeds, UK *

ISBN: 9781800415843

Dimensions: 234mm x 156mm x 15mm

Weight: 470g

208 pages