“Language Policies and Educational Practices” explores the critical role of language policies in education systems. Language is a fundamental tool for communication, shaping our thoughts and interactions. This book examines how language policies determine the medium of instruction at various educational levels, focusing on the practicalities and challenges of these policies.
We highlight the importance of local languages in contributing to a country's social, political, and economic development, emphasizing their vital role in education. Using case studies, we analyze how local language policies are implemented by teachers, the challenges they face, and practical solutions to these challenges. The book also discusses the need for refresher courses for teachers and training for translators.
From the 1960s, the federal government encouraged and sometimes mandated the use of non-English languages in education. This book covers significant legislative milestones, such as the Bilingual Education Act of 1968, the Native American Languages Act of 1990, and other federal programs promoting language diversity and literacy.