Blended Methodologies for Second Language Acquisition in Early Childhood Education

Abstract

This proposal advocates for a paradigm shift in bilingual education in Early Childhood Education (ECE). Grounded in extensive research, it introduces the Interaction Protocol (IP) with four key components: Interaction, Language Learning, Environment as Third Teacher, and Emotions and Cognition. By seamlessly integrating language into the regular curriculum, the IP aims to address the disconnect between content-focused language instruction and holistic language learning. It emphasizes the importance of the teacher as a co-learner, a responsive environment, and the correlation between emotional well-being and cognitive readiness. The proposal draws on diverse theories, highlighting the significance of motivation, cultural understanding, and the role of a bilingual teacher in fostering effective language learning. The positive evaluation results underscore the success of the IP in enhancing linguistic proficiency, confidence, and holistic development among early learners.