Keywords
Parental perceptions
Bilingualism in Maldives
Language maintenance
How to Cite
Abstract
English has become widely used as a second language in the Maldivian community, leading to a noticeable language shift. This qualitative research focuses on exploring this language shift. A descriptive phenomenological methodology was employed to collect data, with a central aim of understanding the problem of language shift of primary and secondary school students through the perceptions of Maldivian parents. The study also sought to identify the main factors driving this shift and the role parents play in the process. Using purposive (criterion) sampling, 10 participants were selected, and semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted. The collected data was analysed using thematic analysis, which revealed four major themes contributing to language shift: 1) the promotion of English over Dhivehi, 2) globalization and the rise of English as a global language, 3) the role of the parents, and 4) language attitudes and beliefs. The results indicate that while most parents expressed concern about the language shift, their unstated beliefs were interfering with the development of language practices necessary for language maintenance. A minority were attempting to halt language shift within the family domain and an older individual was forced to recognize the value of English language, despite contrary beliefs. The results indicate that while most parents express concern about the language shift, their beliefs were interfering with the development of language practices necessary for language maintenance. A minority of parents are actively attempting to prevent the language shift within the family domain, and an older individual was compelled to acknowledge the value of the English language, despite holding contrary views.
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