Playing and learning in another language: ensuring good quality early years education in a language revitalisation programme

Christine Stephen, Joanna McPake, Wilson McLeod

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract / Description of output

Offering Gaelic medium preschool provision poses particular challenges as most children only encounter Gaelic in the playroom and live in a context heavily dominated by English. Nevertheless, expanding provision for early years education in Gaelic is an important part of ambitious plans to revitalise the language. In this paper we explore the challenges experienced by adults and children as they strive to provide good quality preschool education through the medium of Gaelic. Drawing on evidence from a review of Gaelic medium preschool education, we consider the difficulties experienced in developing a Gaelic-only immersion playroom, the need for specific resources and the perceived training needs of practitioners. We look at the issues which arise from the largely English language home learning environment and the specific pedagogical challenges experienced when supporting language learning and access to the national curriculum. Our analysis will be relevant to others working in similar culturallinguistic and political contexts across Europe.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1-21
Number of pages21
JournalEuropean Early Childhood Education Research Journal
Volume20
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2012

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