Attitudes towards language and language learning
There are many factors which influence the outcome of (early) language learning. One important factor is that of beliefs about and attitudes towards languages and language learning, not only of the teachers or educators, but also of the children, the parents, and the wider society.
The attitudes of teachers and educators are influenced by their own personal experiences, their pedagogical beliefs and other factors such as prior learning, the training they have received in teaching languages at the various points in their careers, as well as the curricular and pedagogical practices.
Parental attitudes towards languages also play a significant role in shaping their children’s understanding of the usefulness of language and attitudes towards languages and language learning. Social interpretations, or how different languages and cultures are viewed, also influences the perception of language learning.
The ILLEY website helps teachers and educators reflect on their own attitudes towards languages and language learning.