What are weak and strong form of bilingualism in education
In education, bilingualism refers to the ability of a person to speak and understand two languages. There are two approaches to bilingualism in education: weak and strong forms.
1. Weak Form of Bilingualism: In the weak form, bilingual education focuses on developing proficiency in the majority language or the language of instruction while maintaining some level of proficiency in the home language or minority language. This approach aims to help students acquire basic communication skills in the majority language while recognizing and valuing their cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Bilingual education programs under this approach often use the majority language as the primary language of instruction, with limited instructional support provided in the home language.
2. Strong Form of Bilingualism: In contrast, the strong form of bilingualism aims to develop bilingual proficiency in both the majority language and the home language. It recognizes the importance of maintaining and developing proficiency in the home language while enabling students to acquire proficiency in the majority language. Under this approach, bilingual education programs provide more balanced and equal instruction in both languages. Students receive subject-based instruction in both languages, and the curriculum is designed to develop academic proficiency in both languages.
It is important to note that the strong form of bilingualism emphasizes not only language development but also the cognitive, cultural, and socio-emotional benefits of bilingualism. This approach acknowledges that bilingualism can enhance cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, cultural identity, and social integration in diverse communities.