Multilingualism Begins Early: Insights from a Study on Infants in Ghana
A study in Ghana shows infants are exposed to two to six languages from various caregivers, highlighting a contrast with Western models focused on single-language learning. Local languages are acquired through direct interactions, while English is learned indirectly. This research calls for a broader understanding of multilingualism that captures the complexities of different cultural contexts.
A recent study conducted in Accra, Ghana, involving 121 infants, has revealed significant findings regarding early multilingual exposure among children. Contrary to the prevalent Western notion of single-language learning from a primary caregiver, these infants are typically exposed to between two and six languages. Their linguistic acquisition occurs within a dynamic social framework involving multiple caregivers, indicating a rich linguistic landscape right from infancy.
The study emphasizes the distinctions between direct and indirect language input, where local languages such as Akan, Ga, and Ewe are primarily learned through direct interactions. In contrast, English is acquired largely through indirect channels such as media and formal communications. This indicates that both forms of input play a crucial role in the children’s language mastery, especially in urban settings.
The researchers advocate for a reevaluation of traditional language acquisition models that tend to overlook the complexities of multilingual environments. As referenced by Paul O. Omane, one of the study’s authors, the assumption of learning solely from one caregiver does not apply in the Ghanaian context, where children are surrounded by diverse linguistic interactions.
Furthermore, the study highlights that the number of languages a child hears is not the sole factor in language acquisition; instead, the variety of individuals and types of input significantly influence their learning. According to Prof. Dr. Natalie Boll-Avetisyan, the findings illustrate that multilingualism constitutes a fundamental aspect of children’s identity and social structure in many cultures.
The research underscores the importance of understanding multilingualism through a broader lens, challenging Western-centric assumptions about language learning. It reveals that Ghanaian infants experience a vibrant multilingual environment, shaped by direct and indirect language exposure. The conclusions drawn from this study advocate for an inclusive approach to language research that acknowledges diverse cultural contexts and practices.
Original Source: neurosciencenews.com
