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A switch from Dutch to Papiamento The Aruban debate on the possible switch to Papiamento as the instruction language within the Aruban education system
Fruijtier, Thijn
Fruijtier, Thijn
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Location research
Date
2023
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University of Aruba/University College Utrecht
Language
en
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Abstract
The instruction language at Aruban schools is a discussion that has been going on for decades. Some say that Dutch is more suitable to be the language of instruction, because of its usability for legal aspects and future educational opportunities, while others argue that Papiamento should be the instruction language; this would make more sense, since that is the mother language of most Aruban students. Pupils would become insecure by having to speak Dutch in class and it would adversely affect their school results. In line with this last argument, the ‘Directie Onderwijs’ produced an advice for a new language policy at schools, in which Papiamento will have a more prominent role.
The aim of this research was to, by means of interviews and class visits, poll the reactions of different groups in Aruba to this advice. These methods have helped to show that the participants of this research do not completely recognize the disadvantages of Dutch that are being mentioned and therefore do not necessarily feel the need for a change in the language policy for schools. On the other hand, they do acknowledge the value of Papiamento. The issue could therefore be seen as a dilemma between head - wanting to keep Dutch because of its importancy in the future - and heart; valueing Papiamento as part of the Aruban culture and identity.
Citation
Fruijtier, T. (2023). A switch from Dutch to Papiamento The Aruban debate on the possible switch to Papiamento as the instruction language within the Aruban education system. In Mijts, E. Ballantyne, J., Rodriguez, C. (2023). UAUCU Student Research Exchange – Collected Papers 2023. University of Aruba, 49-66.
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UAUCU Student Research Exchange – Collected Papers 2023