Abstract Book of the 9th International Conference on Research in Education
Year: 2025
DOI:
[PDF]
Moulding the Fabric of Maltese Language Teaching and Learning
Dr. Jacqueline Żammit
ABSTRACT:
The acquisition of Maltese, a unique Semitic language with significant influences from Romance languages such as Italian and English, presents an interesting case for examining the complexities of second language learning within a multicultural context. This study investigates the experiences and perceptions of learners from diverse linguistic backgrounds acquiring Maltese as a second language through a qualitative methodology, including in-depth interviews. The participants include 42 adult learners from various linguistic backgrounds engaged in formal language instruction in Malta. The research explores key themes such as motivation, language transfer, and the role of cultural immersion in facilitating language acquisition. The findings reveal challenges in mastering the morphological and syntactic structures of Maltese and highlight effective instructional strategies, such as contextualised learning and the integration of digital tools. The study underscores the need for tailored pedagogical approaches that address the specific linguistic and cultural needs of Maltese language learners, including challenges posed by the unique features of the language. This research contributes to the broader discourse on foreign language teaching by offering insights into how educators can design inclusive and effective learning environments for lesser-taught or minority-spoken languages, such as Maltese. The implications extend to curriculum design, teacher training, and policy recommendations for supporting linguistic diversity in education. This research offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of language pedagogy and cultural identity in education.
keywords: Maltese Language Acquisition, Foreign Language Learning, Cultural Linguistics, Cultural identity, Pedagogical Strategies, Multicultural context