Parents’ perceptions about the shifting language of primary and secondary school students in the Maldivian community

Abstract

English has become widely used as a second language in the Maldivian community, leading to a noticeable language shift. This qualitative research explores this phenomenon using a descriptive phenomenological methodology, aiming to understand language shift among primary and secondary school students through the perceptions of Maldivian parents. The study also sought to identify the main factors driving this shift and the role of parents in the process. Using purposive (criterion) sampling, 10 participants were selected, and semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted. The data was analysed using thematic analysis, which revealed four major themes contributing to language shift: the promotion of English over Dhivehi, globalization and the rise of English as a global language, the role of parents, and language attitudes and beliefs. The results indicate that while most parents expressed concern about the language shift, their beliefs interfered with the development of language practices necessary for maintaining Dhivehi. A minority of parents actively attempted to prevent the language shift within the family domain, and an older individual was compelled to acknowledge the value of English despite holding contrary views.