Suchergebnisse

Explores the complex relationship between linguistic diversity & intercultural communication, competition, & cooperation in Guatemala where 21 Mayan languages, Nahua, & an Afro-Caribbean language are spoken in addition to the official Spanish. The importance of ethnic diversity & multilingualism in Guatemalan history is discussed, along with the emphasis on "interculturalism" in the 1996 peace accords. Language shifts that have occurred over the last 25 years in Mayan regions are examined, noting the widespread trend toward bilingualism in the Mayan & Spanish languages in the highland regions, & in Spanish & another language (mostly English) in urban areas. A state sponsored bilingual education program in Mayan languages & Spanish was instituted in 1980. Steps outlined in the peace accords for achieving an authentic bilingual intercultural education are described, along with the meaning of "intercultural;" the implications of putting interculturalism into practice; & recommendations of the Special Parity Commission on Indigenous Language Officialization. Prospects for a future pluricultural & multilingual Guatemala are discussed. 1 Figure, 13 References. J. Lindroth

A consideration of what accommodations should be offered or refused to native speakers of Spanish living in the US argues for the "English first" principle which emphasizes the mastery of English by minority children while also encouraging mastery of their native language. Arguments presented by proponents of offering public education in a child's minority language are explored to contend that it is not in the best interests of either the children or the liberal rights of their parents. The welfare of minority children & the preference of their parents should not be relinquished in an effort to help other members of a minority group preserve their culture. The best interest of the children should always be foremost in the design of educational institutions & most minority children living in the US are best served by becoming fluent in English. The moral costs associated with accommodation rights that place the promotion of group interests over the best interest of individuals are discussed. 11 References. J. Lindroth