Language, Literacy, and Sociocultural Studies ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 7-15-2024

Abstract

This study explores the phenomenon of language shift among the Bakalanga community in Botswana, focusing on the gradual displacement of the iKalanga language by dominant languages such as Setswana and English that hold official status for education and broader communication. iKalanga faces significant challenges, as minority languages face extinction globally, the Bakalanga’s experience reflects broader trends where dominant languages supplant indigenous ones in education and wider communication. This research employed a phenomenological approach to investigate how the Bakalanga transmit knowledge amidst this language shift. Data was collected through focus groups, life history narratives, documents, and individual interviews, and analyzed using Dedoose software and qualitative coding techniques. The findings underscore the urgent need for revitalization efforts to mitigate the ongoing language shift within the Bakalanga community. Despite these challenges, the study reveals that iKalanga retains a robust cultural and linguistic heritage, encompassing proverbs, songs, poems, and cultural practices. Ultimately, this research highlights the Bakalanga’s resilience in preserving their linguistic and cultural identity in the face of hegemonic language policy.

Keywords

Language Shift, Language Reclamation, Language Revitalization, Language Policy, Linguistic Oppression, Hegemony of Government, Bakalanga, iKalanga Language, Botswana

Sponsors

None

Document Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Degree Name

Language, Literacy and Sociocultural Studies

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

Language, Literacy, and Sociocultural Studies

First Committee Member (Chair)

Carlos LopezLeiva

Second Committee Member

Dr. Christine Sims

Third Committee Member

Dr. Mary Rice

Fourth Committee Member

Dr. Anderson Chebanne

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