Multilingualism and Its Impact in Teaching and Learning of Science Education

Abstract

South Africa is often referred to as the “rainbow nation.” This is due to its many languages and cultural diversity. One would assume that since the country carries its diversity with pride they would honor and celebrate the different languages; however, this is not the case. Most South African schools use English as the medium of instruction although the dominating population are English second language speakers. Recent results from TIMSS prove that learners are performing poorly in science, and previous research has proved the crucial role played by language in the process of teaching and learning. However, not many changes have been implemented by the Department of Education to counteract the challenges. The main objective of the chapter is to present and discuss why multilingualism should be practiced at schools with the focus being on science education. In doing so, the author will discuss and present the shortcomings of the monolingual pedagogy and the impact that multilingualism has in the teaching and learning of science education.