Consequential Inequality of Bilingual Policy in Neoliberal Singapore

• In Event: Friday Roundtable Session 4:55 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Reimagining Student Autonomy and Voice (Table 12)

Abstract

The paper examines the inherent advantages associated with Mandarin proficiency and the resulting communication breakdown in multiracial contexts. It highlights the policy of teaching Mandarin as a second language to the Chinese majority, while other racial groups learn their respective heritage languages. The paper explores how these policies contribute to racial disparities and power imbalances within the education system. Additionally, it proposes a resolution towards cosmopolitanism as a means to dismantle racial injustice and construct educational possibilities for all students in Singapore.

Authors

• Sean Chen Liu, National Institute of Education - Nanyang Technological University

• Soon How Loh, National Institute of Education - Nanyang Technological University