Young Children's Foreign Language Anxiety: The Case of South Korea

The book investigates the effects of foreign language anxiety (FLA) on young language learners in South Korea's early childhood English education industry, combining existing knowledge with original research to provide suggestions for alleviating FLA and encouraging foreign language enjoyment.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 03 June 2021
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

This comprehensive book delves into the profound impact of foreign language anxiety (FLA) on young language learners, drawing upon the early childhood English education industry in South Korea as a focal point for observation. The authors skillfully blend existing knowledge on FLA with their original research on this understudied and unique group of learners, effectively bridging a significant knowledge gap. The book offers valuable insights and practical recommendations to alleviate FLA and foster a genuine enjoyment of foreign languages, which can be embraced by parents, teachers, policymakers, and educators alike. By implementing these strategies, we can strive to enhance language learning outcomes and promote the holistic development of children, encompassing their emotional and social well-being.
This comprehensive book delves into the profound impact of foreign language anxiety (FLA) on young language learners, drawing upon the early childhood English education industry in South Korea as a focal point for observation. The authors skillfully blend existing knowledge on FLA with their original research on this understudied and unique group of learners, effectively bridging a significant knowledge gap. The book offers valuable insights and practical recommendations to alleviate FLA and foster a genuine enjoyment of foreign languages, which can be embraced by parents, teachers, policymakers, and educators alike. By implementing these strategies, we can strive to enhance language learning outcomes and promote the holistic development of children, encompassing their emotional and social well-being.

The early childhood English education industry in South Korea, fueled by the English fever, serves as a rich backdrop for this insightful exploration. The authors meticulously analyze the effects of FLA on young language learners, drawing upon a wealth of existing research and combining it with their original findings. By doing so, they provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by this understudied and distinct group of learners.

One of the key strengths of the book is its ability to offer practical solutions to address FLA. The authors provide a range of suggestions that can be implemented by parents, teachers, and policymakers to create a supportive learning environment that promotes foreign language enjoyment. These recommendations are grounded in evidence-based practices and are designed to foster a positive attitude towards language learning, thereby enhancing language acquisition and overall academic success.

Moreover, the book recognizes the importance of promoting children's psychosocial well-being within the context of foreign language learning. The authors acknowledge that FLA can have a negative impact on children's confidence, motivation, and overall language development. By addressing FLA, we can create a nurturing environment that promotes resilience, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging, which are essential for children's holistic growth.

The book is organized into well-structured chapters, each dedicated to a specific aspect of FLA and its implications for young language learners. The authors provide a clear and concise explanation of the concept of FLA, its causes, and its effects on language learning. They also offer practical strategies and techniques to alleviate FLA, including classroom activities, teacher interventions, and parental support.

Furthermore, the book explores the role of culture in FLA and its impact on language learning. The authors recognize that cultural differences can contribute to FLA and emphasize the importance of cultural sensitivity and awareness in language teaching. By incorporating cultural elements into language learning, we can create a more inclusive and engaging learning environment that promotes cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable resource for parents, teachers, policymakers, and educators who are committed to enhancing language learning outcomes and promoting the psychosocial well-being of young language learners. By combining existing knowledge with original research, the authors have provided a comprehensive and practical guide that offers valuable insights and practical recommendations to address FLA and foster a genuine enjoyment of foreign languages. The book's emphasis on practical solutions, cultural sensitivity, and the holistic development of children makes it an essential read for anyone interested in advancing language education and supporting the well-being of young learners.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800411593