Language Education for Orang Asli Children in Malaysia
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2021
Abstract
Literacy among Orang Asli children is found to be well below the national average. This paper explores the connection between language learning and meaning-making and its relation to the problem of language education among Orang Asli children. In so doing, the paper shows that language learning should be situated within their environment. This paper uses the findings from the observation made in an exploratory case study of Temuan children aged 7-12 in an Orang Asli village in Selangor and their struggles with language. Taking a critical view of the challenges faced by the children, this study surmised that a proper recognition of the Orang Asli community in language education is needed for effective meaning-making to ensure their genuine participation. The insight adds to the discussion within decolonisation of education on the importance of indigenisation of language education for Orang Asli children. © Universiti Putra Malaysia Press.
Keywords
Environment, Indigenous, Language education, Literacy, Meaning-making
Divisions
arts,Anthropology
Publication Title
Pertanika Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities
Volume
29
Issue
3
Publisher
Universiti Putra Malaysia