Language Ideologies Among Pre-service Teachers At The University Of Burundi: An Appraisal Of Language Policy In Burundi
Keywords:
language ideologies, language policy, language practice, multilingualismAbstract
This study investigates the language ideologies held by pre-service teachers with regard to language use in education and official settings in Burundi. It also investigates whether there is a mismatch between pre-service teachers’ language ideologies and what is articulated in the top-down language policy of Burundi. The study employed mixed methods- a questionnaire and a content analysis. The results revealed that pre-service teachers’ language ideologies were connected to the perceived importance of a particular language. They believed that learning or having competence in English and French is similar to building a bridge to reach an elite, educated and global community. They also believed that Kirundi language should be a medium of education alongside English and French. These beliefs were in line with what is articulated in the official language policy of Burundi. However, it was shown that what is articulated in the language policy conflicts with the reality of language practices. Therefore, other studies are needed to investigate this conflict.
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