Multilingual Education and Language Learning Motivation
Summary
Multilingual education encompasses pedagogical frameworks in which two or more languages are systematically employed to facilitate learning across the curriculum. It extends beyond mere language instruction to foster cognitive flexibility, cultural awareness and social inclusion. Central to its efficacy is the interplay between integrative and instrumental motivations: learners driven by integrative motives seek cultural affinity and community belonging, whereas those motivated instrumentally pursue tangible outcomes such as career advancement or academic achievement. Recent theoretical advances highlight the dynamic role of identity positioning and resource allocation in shaping both teacher and learner motivation. Empirical studies demonstrate that multilingual settings can accelerate metalinguistic awareness, enhance problem-solving skills and promote positive attitudes towards linguistic diversity. In practice, successful programmes integrate digital tools, culturally responsive materials and collaborative methodologies, thereby responding to global imperatives for sustainable development, social cohesion and equitable access to education.
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Multilingual Education and Language Learning Motivation publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in multilingual education and language learning motivation across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Multilingual Education: Instructional approach employing two or more languages for teaching and learning.
Integrative Motivation: Desire to learn a language to integrate with the culture and community of its speakers.
Instrumental Motivation: Goal-oriented drive to learn a language for practical benefits such as employment or academic advancement.
LOTE (Languages Other than English): Curriculum focus on teaching languages other than English within educational contexts.
Identity Work: Process by which individuals negotiate and construct their professional and personal identities in learning settings.
References
- Multilingual Education Policy and LOTE Teacher Development: Focusing on China’s LOTE Programs in Higher Education. Education Sciences (2023).
- Foreign Language Education for Sustainable Development in China: A Case Study of German Language Education. Sustainability (2023).
- The impact of multilingual education policy on university language teachers’ professional development. Círculo de Lingüística Aplicada a la Comunicación (2020).
- Language Education, Gender, and Inclusivity: Focusing on Japanese Language Education in Sri Lanka. Social Science and Humanities Journal (2024).
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