In the context of increasingly strong globalization, parents not only want their children to be equipped with solid knowledge but also expect them to preserve and promote their cultural identity. The Dual Language Program was created as a perfect solution to balance integration and tradition, helping children not only access global scientific knowledge but also nurture and preserve traditional values. So, what exactly is a “Dual Language Program”? Let’s take a look at the following article, which will provide you with all the information you need!
1. What is dual language education?
Dual language education is a form of education that uses two languages for teaching and learning, typically the native language and a second language. By combining advanced international educational methods with cultural integration, this program not only helps students acquire scientific knowledge comprehensively but also meets international standards for knowledge and foreign languages. Moreover, students are encouraged to communicate, think critically, and understand diverse cultures, providing a solid foundation for well-rounded development and global integration.
In Vietnam, the Dual Language Program, also known as Bilingual Program, is a flexible integration of the curriculum from the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) of Vietnam with international programs from countries such as the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom. This approach helps students not only meet domestic requirements but also achieve international standards, preparing them for higher education in the future.
2. The goals of dual language education
The primary goal of dual language education is to promote proficiency in speaking and understanding two languages, alongside enhancing academic performance and intercultural competence. This approach recognizes the value of maintaining the native language while developing proficiency in the target language.
In addition, the objectives of dual language education include:
- Nurturing and promoting understanding and appreciation of different cultures.
- Enhancing students’ problem-solving abilities, creativity, and flexibility.
- Preparing students for opportunities in higher education and careers in a globalized world.
- Maintaining a connection with the cultural and linguistic roots of the students.
By setting and addressing these goals, bilingual education programs are striving to produce well-rounded individuals who are proficient in languages, prepared to face the challenges of an integrated and globalized society.
3. Types of dual language programs
3.1. Two-way Immersion
Two-way Immersion is a program where students are taught and become proficient in two languages. Both languages are equally valued and used as tools for learning and communication in all school activities.
This program brings numerous benefits, helping students develop both language skills and scientific knowledge at a high level. Furthermore, students are exposed to two cultures, expanding their worldview and understanding, which makes integration and development easier. It also encourages critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
However, this program can place pressure on students, as they are required to learn content in both languages, and the high costs involved are also an important consideration.
3.2. One-Way Immersion
One-Way Immersion is an educational model in which students are taught part or all of their subjects in a second language (usually English or another international language), while their native language is maintained and supported but not used as the primary language of instruction.
The goal of this program is to help students become proficient in a second language while still meeting academic goals set by the Ministry of Education, creating a diverse learning environment where subjects are primarily taught in the second language. This allows students to improve their language skills while also acquiring academic knowledge in a comprehensive manner, similar to learning in their native language.
However, because the focus is on just one language of instruction, students may face challenges in deeply understanding specialized knowledge, making it difficult to connect with the learning material, which can affect their overall understanding. Additionally, students may face some difficulties in switching between two languages in the same context, which can slow the development of dual language immersion skills.
4. How does dual language work?
In Vietnam, dual language immersion programs operate and thrive by designing a curriculum that integrates both the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) standards and international programs. This approach combines traditional subjects taught in the native language and subjects taught in a second language. The integrated subjects include Science, Social Studies, and Drama. This helps ensure the program meets the goal of developing English proficiency while deepening students’ knowledge and skills according to the direction set by the Ministry.
Additionally, the Dual Language Program encourages group projects, where bilingual students have the opportunity to collaborate with peers from international programs. This fosters cultural understanding, language skills, leadership abilities, decision-making skills, problem-solving, and enhanced communication – all essential skills for future success. Students are assessed in all subjects based on MOET standards and the international curriculum framework. These assessments allow teachers to adjust their teaching methods accordingly, while parents can easily track their children’s learning progress. This ensures that students meet all the requirements of the program and are well-prepared for integration into international learning environments in the future.
5. Dual language immersion Supports Comprehensive Development at Westlink
At Westlink, the Dual Language Program is a combination of the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training curriculum and the teaching system from the United States. In addition to this, native-speaking teachers, subject teachers, and local teachers work together, along with modern facilities and clear program goals, creating a modern dual language education approach that centers on the students. This helps students acquire solid academic knowledge while developing smart learning strategies, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity.
Furthermore, as a member of the international education organization ISP, students at Westlink gain access to the global community through study and practical experiences. This helps students easily integrate into the culture, knowledge, and mindset of advanced countries around the world.
The Dual Language Program opens up numerous superior opportunities for students. It not only helps children become proficient in a second language but also enhances critical thinking, communication skills, and cultural understanding. With a solid language foundation, students can access many learning and career opportunities in international environments. We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of “What is a Dual Language Program?” and why you should consider choosing dual language education as a stepping stone to success in a competitive world!
If parents have any questions regarding the dual Language Program at Westlink, please contact us through the following channels:
Contact Information
Address: Gia Vinh Road, Tay Ho Tay urban area, Xuan Tao Ward, Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi
Hotline: (+84) 865 777 900
Email: infor@westlink.edu.vn
Website: https://westlink.edu.vn/vi
