Language and identity loss: A survey of Tshivenda L1 speakers in Pretoria.
Muavha, Muthuhadini Lufuno
Muavha, Muthuhadini Lufuno
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Abstract
This study aims to explore the possibility of language and identity loss of Tshivenḓa L1 speakers in Pretoria (PTA). This study is, therefore, important for Tshivenḓa L1 speakers, who
live in Pretoria, to be made aware of their practices, that is, of the possibility of moving away from speaking their own language in public places and speaking other languages - which may have a negative impact on the survival of their own language and keeping their identities alive. People are who they are, because of their language and culture. Above all, language survival and identity preservation mean that the next generation will know the language of their ancestors, as well as the language that constitutes their identity. To explore the objectives of this study, a mixed-methods approach was adopted to understand this phenomenon and its impact on language and identity loss better. The study used fifty-six respondents, who were Tshivenḓa L1 speakers in Pretoria. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data. In addition, data were collected, using concurrent mixed-methods data analysis techniques. The theoretical frameworks used to underpin this study are the M ethnolinguistic vitality, social identity and self-determination theories. The study was carried out to persuade Tshivenḓa L1 speakers, who move from one place to another, where they are surrounded by different speakers, to speak their own language. The findings of this study revealed that there is no language and identity loss by Tshivenḓa L1 speakers in Pretoria. However, the findings of this study further revealed that Tshivenḓa L1 speakers are not aware of the effect on their language and identity when shifting from speaking their L1.
Description
Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree Master of Language Practice in the Department of Applied Languages ,Faculty of Humanities at the Tshwane University of Technology.
Date
2022-03-01
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Tshwane University of Technology
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Keywords
Language, Identity, Tshivenḓa, Vitality, Culture, Communication, Language shift