The Linguist is a languages magazine for professional linguists, translators, interpreters, language professionals, language teachers, trainers, students and academics with articles on translation, interpreting, business, government, technology
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thelinguist.uberflip.com OCTOBER/NOVEMBER The Linguist 19 FEATURES strategy, it leaves it to the HE institutions to decide on their contribution in this area. Scotland is taking big and firm steps to champion language learning but there is still some way to travel. The CfE provides the perfect framework to make the learning of two additional languages the norm, but this can only be achieved with effective leadership, unified cross-sector efforts, and business and parental involvement. The policy itself is a declaration of good intentions, encompassing the promotion of learning and the teaching of languages with a more integrated and contextualised pragmatic experience. It is a celebration of linguistic diversity and cultural awareness, which improves literacy skills and facilitates inclusion for speakers of languages other than English. Confidence and self-esteem is thus improved for all, regardless of origin, first language, cultural background or ethnicity. Stakeholder feedback There is a wealth of must-read literature for those interested in a revolutionary languages model, 1 with numerous examples of excellence in teaching. However, I sought to gather opinions from selected stakeholders. I asked 106 participants "In your opinion, what are the best and worst aspects of the 1+2 language policy?" and received 25 responses. Respondents included education consultants, a languages advocacy group, development officers, teacher trainers, policy makers, primary head teachers, and primary and secondary teachers. The observations were similar across their various sectors, including the view that a language policy was needed in Scotland, the synergy between the flexibility of the CfE and the 1+2 policy, and the fact that other elements (mainly culture) are also brought into the classroom. Although respondents acknowledged that it is too early to see the full impact of the policy, there is no question that good progress has already been made. There was agreement that HE institutions are understanding their role in the success of the policy. Concerns were raised about the funding required for the ongoing implementation and development of the strategy, as well as support for the continuity of 1+2 beyond the policy deadlines. The lack of a linguistic background among most teachers is a problem in terms of resources, workload and confidence. "It is a lot to ask of classroom teachers who already teach so much and may not have the confidence to teach one language, never mind a second," said one respondent. However, most highlighted the personal and professional benefits the policy brings: "It has encouraged me as a teacher to develop my school French and to learn a completely new language, Spanish. The professional learning opportunities I have undertaken in the past year that have excited me and have had a personal impact on me have come as a result of the 1+2 policy." "The way the policy is construed and rules are stipulated by certain educational bodies" was identified as a shortfall by one development officer. There also seems to be a poor understanding around the introduction of the L3, with LAs and secondary schools expecting some continuation from primary to secondary. This belief "is narrowing the choice of languages, leading to the demise of German in particular," according to one respondent. Whereas respondents recognised a need for a joined-up approach to achieve a more consistent interpretation of the policy, they celebrated and enjoyed cross-sectoral partnerships, collaborative work and planning in their local clusters. Despite mixed feelings surrounding training and confidence, some financial and logistical challenges, and issues with consistency and continuity, the 1+2 policy has brought the languages family together. It has placed us all on the same footing, devoted to nourishing a love for languages. Adopting an interdisciplinary approach feeds curriculum innovation and the normalisation of language learning. Now, more than ever, educators are perceived as torch-bearers of creativity and imagination. In addition to enhancing our understanding of our own language and culture, the policy sets young people on a journey towards better career pathways and a boosted economy. Notes 1 See Education Scotland, SCILT and UCMLS "Classroom teachers may not have the confidence to teach one language, never mind a second" © SHUTTERSTOCK