Trilingualism, Education and Ethnic Language Subjectivities

Abstract

This study investigates the subjectivities of tertiary students in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (GZAR) of the People's Republic of China. Specifically, we investigate self-reported language practices and attitudes in relation to identities in a language ecology with three prominent languages (Zhuang, Standard Chinese [Putonghua], and English). This mixed methods study shows that despite the population size and some educational support, Zhuang language vitality is challenged through subjectivities linked to promotion of Putonghua and Zhuang specific factors (e.g. script and dialectal variations). In addition, the data show multiple interpretations of what mother tongue might mean to people in this region, including those of Zhuang ethnicity. The study leads to insights on multilingualism in this region. It also suggests that a language ecology approach is useful for understanding subjectivities as multifaceted, with multiple influences, helping us better understand why implementation of national policies or community supports on their own are insufficient for language maintenance efforts.