Analyzing the Resulting Effects of Taiwan’s Hokkien Language Program

Abstract

In 2017, Taiwan's government passed the Indigenous Languages Development Act with the intention of revitalizing its indigenous languages by classifying them as national languages and implementing new language learning programs within schools across the country. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the Taiwanese Hokkien language program specifically, also known as 閩南語沉浸式教學計畫, in order to understand its resulting effectiveness and the factors leading to its successes or struggles at this time. The participants taking part in this study are the teachers of the language classes and the adult family members of students taking the classes. The data was primarily gathered through the use of anonymous and non-invasive qualitative surveying of parents and teachers, focusing on cultural and educational impacts respectively. The results of this study revealed both challenges and positive elements within the language program. The role of culture and social effects are also shown to shape the outcome and overall use of this program.