Teaching Minority Languages: Social and Cultural Problems

Abstract

The article considers the issue of teaching the languages of ethnic minorities in Russia and in Europe. The author uses the method of comparative analysis to study how minority and regional languages were taught in the Russian Empire as compared with contemporary states. The article defines the existing problems: voluntary assimilation caused by inner migration and higher status of the majority language in urban areas, communication in the majority language at school and in the family. One of the demotivating factors for students educated in minority languages is the need to prepare for the unified state exams which are conducted in Russian. Another serious obstacle is lack of experienced teachers and teaching materials. The author concludes that joint efforts of state authorities and ethnic associations can help to preserve minority languages and cultures.