Language and Education: The missing link
Many children don't speak the language that's used in schools. This is threatening the achievement of the Education for All project.
- Published
- November 2009
Many people know what it's like to struggle in school. Others know what it's like to be forced to drop out.
For many children, this deep frustration and disappointment is not caused by physical or monetary barriers, but by the decision to teach in a language they don't understand.
Most of the world’s countries contain different linguistic and cultural groups. Unfortunately, few education systems welcome these languages and cultures, attempting to promote one or two languages deemed important for unity and economic growth.
As well as cutting many children off from their culture, this means that many children spend their time in school struggling to understand instead of building new knowledge. Many fail to learn either the school language or the language of their parents. Large numbers drop out.
This report, co-published with CfBT Education Trust, looks at:
- how the language used for teaching and learning can be a barrier or enabler in achieving national and international education commitments
- appropriate policy and investment actions national governments can take
- the challenges of pursuing good practice around school language
It also presents recommendations for removing the language barriers that keep many children from progressing through education.
Download Language and Education: The missing link (PDF 750KB)
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