An investigation of metalinguistic awareness in bilingual Hausa-English speakers in Maiduguri
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Metalinguistic awareness—the ability to reflect on and analyze language—plays an essential role in bilingual education. In Maiduguri, bilingual Hausa-English speakers exhibit varying degrees of metalinguistic skills that influence their academic and social interactions. The dual exposure to Hausa’s structural nuances and English’s global lexicon fosters an environment where learners develop critical cognitive skills, such as phonemic awareness and syntactic flexibility (Abubakar, 2023). Research suggests that metalinguistic awareness is not only a byproduct of bilingualism but also a facilitator of language learning, enabling individuals to transfer skills from one language to another (Yusuf, 2024). However, the development of such awareness is contingent upon several factors including educational practices, family language use, and community support. In Maiduguri, challenges such as limited instructional resources and varying degrees of language exposure further complicate this development. The current study seeks to investigate the levels of metalinguistic awareness among bilingual Hausa-English speakers and examine its relationship with language proficiency. By analyzing classroom practices and community interactions, the research aims to provide insights into how enhanced metalinguistic skills can be cultivated to improve overall bilingual proficiency, thereby informing targeted educational interventions (Suleiman, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite growing interest in bilingual education, there is insufficient research on metalinguistic awareness among Hausa-English speakers in Maiduguri. Limited empirical evidence exists regarding how these speakers reflect on language structure and apply this knowledge to improve language proficiency (Abubakar, 2023). Challenges include inconsistent language use in educational and home environments and inadequate teacher training in fostering metalinguistic skills (Yusuf, 2024). Consequently, many learners may not fully benefit from the cognitive advantages of bilingualism. The ambiguity in metalinguistic development processes raises concerns about the effectiveness of current instructional approaches. This study aims to address these gaps by examining the factors influencing metalinguistic awareness and its implications for bilingual proficiency, thereby offering practical recommendations for educators (Suleiman, 2025).
Objectives of the Study:
-
To investigate the levels of metalinguistic awareness among bilingual Hausa-English speakers.
-
To determine the relationship between metalinguistic skills and language proficiency.
-
To explore educational strategies that enhance metalinguistic awareness.
Research Questions:
-
How do bilingual Hausa-English speakers develop metalinguistic awareness?
-
What factors influence their metalinguistic competence?
-
How can enhanced metalinguistic awareness improve language education?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it enhances our understanding of metalinguistic awareness in bilingual contexts. The findings will guide educators in designing curricula that nurture cognitive skills essential for language mastery, ultimately improving bilingual proficiency and academic success in Maiduguri (Abubakar, 2023; Yusuf, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
The study is limited to bilingual Hausa-English speakers in Maiduguri and focuses on their metalinguistic awareness.
Definitions of Terms:
-
Metalinguistic awareness: The ability to analyze and reflect on the structure and function of language.
-
Bilingual speakers: Individuals who communicate proficiently in two languages.
-
Cognitive benefits: Advantages in mental processing that arise from bilingual language use.
Related Project Materials
The Role of Financial Literacy in Promoting Entrepreneurial Success in Barkin Ladi LGA
Background of the Study
Entrepreneurship is a key driver of economic development in Barkin Ladi LGA, with...
An assessment of the role of adult education in conflict resolution among pastoral communities in Damboa Local Government Area, Borno State.
Background of the Study
Adult education has long been recognized as a transformative tool for promoting social cohesion and effective con...
An Investigation of Nurses' Preparedness for Handling Cases of Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Emergency Departments at Benue State University Teaching Hospital
Background of the Study
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent...
THE IMPACT OF CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE MANAGEMENT ON BUSINESS SUCCESS
THE IMPACT OF CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE MANAGEMENT ON BUSINESS SUCCESS
This study aimed to examine the impact of customer experience management...
The Role of Broadcasting in Promoting National Integration: A Case Study of Lokoja Local Government Area, Kogi State
Background of the Study
Broadcasting plays a critical role in shaping national identity and promoting social cohesion in a...
IMPACT OF SOCIAL STUDIES EDUCATION IN THE CONTROL OF SOCIAL ILLS AMONG STUDENTS OF JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN ZAMFARA STATE, NIGERIA
ABSTRACT
The study investigated Impact of Social Studies Education in The Control of Social Ills Among Students of Junior Secondary Schoo...
The Role of Short Films in Promoting Rural Entrepreneurship in Kaltungo Local Government Area, Gombe State
Chapter One: Introduction
THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN CUSTOMER LOYALTY PROGRAMS: A CASE STUDY OF GRAND SQUARE SUPERMARKET, ABUJA, FCT
Background of the Study
Customer loyalty programs are essential for retail businesses seeking to retain customers and en...
An Assessment of Online Pragmatic Strategies in Nigerian Digital Communication: A Case Study of WhatsApp Group Chats
Background of the Study
Digital communication in Nigeria is characterized by dynamic and informal interactions, particular...
EFFECTS OF JIGSAW II AND GUIDED DISCOVERY STRATEGIES ON RETENTION AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN GEOMETRY AMONG JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN ZARIA METROPOLIS, NIGERIA
ABSTRACT
This study examined the Effects of Jigsaw II and Guided discovery strategies on retention and academic performance among junior...
