There is still a huge debate as to whether bilingual education is positive or negative. But there is also an ongoing debate about how to teach children a second language. Many methods have been developed and used, but some people believe some are more effective than others. Texas has implemented a program called Two-Way Dual Language program that teaches children a second language by using their native language. Some bilingual programs completely immerse students in the new language without speaking in the native language to teach the children. Supporters of the Two-Way Dual Language program claim that children will benefit by being taught the new language in their native language. Also, because this program teaches in both languages, the school can teach students who speak two different languages in the same classroom. By the end of the program, both sets of students will be fluent in both languages. This program also reinforces their native language, and students score better on tests in their native language.
The whole article is here.
Another article discusses this new program in Texas and gives multiple reasons to support it. The program helps students become “bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural.” The greatest benefit of this program may be the cultural understanding the students gain from each other. Because students of different native languages are put together in one classroom, they learn to help each other with their respective languages. They become friends with people who are from different backgrounds than their own, and they form strong bonds with each other. A lot of bilingual programs only teach students the language without any emphasis on the culture of the people who speak that language. This program is unique because the students do gain an understanding of the culture because they can interact one-on-one with speakers of a different language than their own.
These students will, in turn, become respectful and more open to people of other cultures and languages in the future. Programs such as these could be the answer to greater problems in the world like racism and prejudice. Although it would take a huge change in the education system to influence enough students, bilingual education can have bigger implications than just proficiency in two languages. The more students learn about and come to appreciate other languages, the more accepting they will be. Learning to accept people different than yourself is an invaluable lesson and can have an enormous effect on future generations.
I agree that these dual language programs are a great way to bring communities together, particularly in areas where there are large immigrant populations. Not only do these programs help immigrants assimilate into American culture, they also foster acceptance among the local population. This cultural understanding important in order for these groups of people to get along because they have very different world views which stem from their different life experiences.
ReplyDeleteIn these dual language programs everyone benefits. The kids become fluent in two different languages, but they also learn about another culture. Because language is such an integral part of a culture, families are brought together and communities united.