New report highlights the benefits of bilingualism for mathematics students in Ireland
November 16, 2011
A new report investigating the impacts of bilingualism in the study of mathematics in Ireland was launched recently by Minister for Research and Innovation, Sean Sherlock TD. Published by the National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and Learning (NCE-MSTL) at the University of Limerick, the report is based on a doctoral study completed by Dr Máire Ní Ríordáin, former Senior Projects Officer at the NCE-MSTL and currently Head of Education at St Patrick’s College, Thurles.
The report reveals previously unnoticed advantages to a bilingual approach to mathematics education. The study found that learning mathematics through the medium of Gaeilge at primary level education may enhance long-term mathematical understanding and attainment in English-medium second level education. Bilingual students in 2nd and 3rd level education with high ability in both Irish and English outperformed their monolingual peers in mathematics, even when assessed through their second language of learning, English.
Speaking at the launch of the report, Minister for Research and Innovation, Sean Sherlock said; “This report adds new evidence-based analyses on language issues in mathematics education that are timely in terms of the national Irish language policy debate, formulation and implementation. A major finding of the study points to the advantages of bilingualism for education.”
The aim of the study was to investigate Irish post-primary and undergraduate bilingual mathematics students’ experiences of learning mathematics through the medium of English, their second language of learning.
Dr. Máire Ní Ríordáin, author of the report said; “The study noted some drops in performance in the transition from Gaeilge-medium primary level to English-medium second level; however these were only experienced in the initial transition and are specific to having English as the new language of learning. The advantages of being bilingual can outweigh the negatives once proficiency is developed in both languages.”
For further information about the National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics Science Teaching and Learning (NCE-MSTL) and a copy of the report is available www.nce-mstl.ie.
Dr. Máire Ní Ríordáin: PhD in Mathematics Education (2008) University of Limerick, BSc. Physical Education and Mathematics, Concurrent Teacher Education Degree, Hons. (2005), University of Limerick. My principal area of research is concerned with bilingualism (Gaeilge and English) and its influence on mathematical teaching/learning and cognitive development. My other areas of research include out-of-field teaching in mathematics and cross-curricular teaching (mathematics and science) utilizing technology.
National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and Learning (NCE-MSTL). The NCE-MSTL is a major initiative funded by the HEA through the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) cycle 2 programme to research, co-ordinate and support, develop and implement programmes to enhance Irish science and mathematics teaching and learning at all levels. The Centre is hosted by the University of Limerick and operates under the aegis of the Shannon Consortium.
