Policy makers` views on the language medium of instruction in Tanzania secondary and tertiary education
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Date
2008
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam.
Abstract
Plans were made in Tanzania in the 1980s on the possibilities of extending Kiswahili as the language medium of instructions (henceforth LOI) to post- primary education. Since then, there have been significant research reports and publications on the question of LOI in Tanzania. Most of these research endeavors show that English is an obstacle to the teaching and learning processes at post-primary levels. Yet the LOI issue has not yet been resolved. This study examines the views of policy makers who seem to let the situation continue as it in spite of the research outcomes and classroom practices that English can not longer serve as an effective LOI in post primary levels. It is revealed in this study that Kiswahili can cater for secondary as well as tertiary levels. Since 69.8% of them are in favor of English and who do not believe in the research findings. Conversely, the discussion reveals that any society can sustainability develop and industrialize if a familiar language to its members is being used as the LOI in education. Additionally, it is argued in the present work that proficiency in English is not attained through using it as a medium instruction. The use of the familiar language as the medium instruction facilitates not only students to understand the subject matter. Hence the dissertation indicates that the use of Kiswahili at the LOI in Tanzania will not only strengthen the teaching and learning process, but also it will facilitate the acquisition of English and often foreign language skills when such languages are taught efficiently and effectively as subjects.
Description
Available in print form, East Africana Collection, Dr. Wilbert Chagula Library, Class Mark (THS EAF LB1139.L3T34P6)
Keywords
Medium of instruction, Language Study and teaching, Secondary education, Policy making
Citation
Peterson, R (2008) Policy makers` views on the language medium of instruction in Tanzania secondary and tertiary education, Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam