Perspektiewe op moedertaalonderrig

Abstract

This article deals with the advantages of mother-tongue education at all levels of formal training. It departs from the point of view that the medium of formal instruction can be a facilitator or a barrier to educational development and, later, to one’s basic rights and privileges as well as political and economic participation. Accepting that the concept of mother-tongue instruction has problematic dimensions, educational and noneducational arguments are presented in support of mother tongue instruction, followed by a brief overview of empirical research that demonstrates its fundamental role in education. The article concludes with a list of obstacles that need to be addressed if the principle of mother-tongue instruction is to be effectively marketed to educational decision-makers.