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Part of
Multifaceted Multilingualism
Edited by Kleanthes K. Grohmann
[Studies in Bilingualism 66] 2024
► pp. 270–291

Chapter 11
Heritage language education

| University of California, Irvine

This chapter provides a brief overview of heritage language education and its potential role in supporting heritage language learners’ bi/multilingualism. We begin by considering the multifaceted nature of heritage language education programs and courses to address heritage language learners’ goals and needs. The chapter then outlines five major dimensions that currently contribute to the design and implementation of curricula for heritage language learners: grammar properties, pedagogical models, critical language awareness, policies, program development and institutionalization. The remainder of the discussion focuses on future directions by examining four critical areas that can help advance the effectiveness of education programs for heritage language learners. The overview of the chapter stems from scholarly perspectives, initiatives, and efforts with diverse heritage language learner populations across a number of international settings.

Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.The importance of a needs analysis
  • 3.The main goals of HL education
  • 4.Five dimensions in HL education programs
  • 5.Future directions in HL education
  • 6.Conclusion
  • References
Published online: 4 April 2024
DOI logo
https://doi.org/10.1075/sibil.66.11tor
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