ERIC Number: EJ1471173
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025-May
Pages: 26
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0167-8507
EISSN: EISSN-1613-3684
Available Date: 2025-01-24
Multilingual Imperatives in a Local Family: Implementing a High-Pressure Family Language Policy in South Korea
Multilingua: Journal of Cross-Cultural and Interlanguage Communication, v44 n3 p289-314 2025
This study examines how a high-pressure family language policy (FLP) is implemented in South Korea, focusing on the experiences of a family with a preschool-aged child, Jay. The phenomenon of "English fever," which has led to the widespread adoption of intensive early childhood English education, has contributed to the increasing prevalence of high-pressure FLPs. They are often characterized by parents' belief in creating an English-rich environment at home and making substantial financial investments for their children's future academic and professional success. Also, daily bilingual routines, alongside a focus on children's holistic development, are integral to this approach. Using data from home observations, video recordings, observation notes, and semi-structured interviews, this study examines the intellectual, financial, and practical commitments the parents make to Jay's English development, along with their ongoing concern for his bilingual progress. Furthermore, it investigates the socioemotional pressure and resilience experienced by both Jay and his parents. The findings suggest that promoting additive bilingual programs within public education could offer a sustainable alternative to some aspects of high-pressure FLPs. It posits that public school initiatives could empower families and young learners by integrating English into their language skills while promoting an appreciation for native languages and cultures among all students.
Descriptors: Language Usage, Second Languages, English (Second Language), Second Language Learning, Bilingualism, Parent Child Relationship, Parent Attitudes, Korean, Foreign Countries, Preschool Children, Language Attitudes, Early Childhood Education, Second Language Instruction, Parent Aspiration, Family Environment, Child Development, Resilience (Psychology), Bilingual Education Programs, Cultural Awareness
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Early Childhood Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: South Korea
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: 1Division of English Language and Literature, Seoul, Republic of Korea; 2Department of Learning and Instruction, Buffalo, USA