Exploring the attitudes and awareness of Tshivenḓa L1 learners towards pursuing Tshivenḓa as a career language: A survey of grade 10-12 high school learners in Tembisa township.
Mphaphuli, Patricia Tshikalange
Mphaphuli, Patricia Tshikalange
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Abstract
There is concern among language researchers that African languages are not seen as languages that can provide career opportunities among the youth of South Africa. As a result, many learners do not want to choose these languages as subjects of learning at high schools and at universities. Studies have been conducted on learners’ attitude towards African languages as languages of learning and teaching (LoLT), but very few of these explore attitudes and learner awareness towards pursuing existing language careers. This study’s primary aim is to find out the attitude displayed by, and awareness of, Tshivenḓa L1 learners towards pursuing Tshivenḓa as career language at the two-selected public high schools whilst the secondary aim is, ultimately, to encourage Tshivenḓa L1 learners to consider pursuing careers in the field of languages, with special reference to Tshivenḓa. Data was collected from learners and teachers from two selected Tembisa township public high schools, interpreters, lecturers and terminologists (N= 72). Data was collected using questionnaires, and interviews as research methods. The findings reveal that learners hold a negative attitude towards pursuing Tshivenḓa as a career. The study also found that learners were not aware of the possible language careers in Tshivenḓa.
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Submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree Magister Technologiae: Language practice in the Department of Applied Languages Faculty of Humanities.
Date
2019-02-01
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Tshwane University of Technology
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Keywords
Tshivenda, Attitudes, Awareness, Career Language, Learners