This paper focuses on the issue of language of instruction, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, and considers the persistent preference for monolingual learning environments in multilingual societies. The perception that the use of African languages in education interferes with the acquisition of a global language is shown to be incongruous with…

Describes the history and current usage of three minority languages: Gaelic and Scots in Scotland and Catalan in the Spanish autonomous region of Catalonia. Discusses the role of language in cultural identity, preservation, and revitalization and government policies on language of instruction, teacher education, and bilingual education. (SV)

Examines Catalan's remarkable revival in Catalonia (Spain) in the past 20 years. Discusses the 1978 referendum designating "autonomous communities," their languages having co-official status with Spanish; increases in Catalan usage in many sectors and among the young; Catalan usage in education; and challenges related to bilingual…