Use of Chichewa and Chiyao Languages in Mathematics Lessons in Malawi Primary Schools: A Question of Vocabulary and Attitude

This was a survey on the use of Chichewa and Chiyao languages as instructional media in mathematics lessons in Malawi primary schools. The study focused on vocabulary, and the attitude of teachers and parents on the use of the languages in mathematics lessons. The precision of such terms in describing the mathematical concepts was also studied. Both qualitative and quantitative research designs were used. A purposeful sampling technique was used to obtain the required sample of the two languages, the two districts, the ten schools and the focus groups. Data was collected through the use of focus discussions for teachers and parents to find out the direct equivalence of selected mathematical terms in Chichewa and Chiyao. During the discussions, the precision of the terms in describing the mathematical concepts and perception of parents and teachers in the use of such terms in mathematics lessons were also discussed. A mathematics lesson in standard two was observed to check on how Chichewa and Chiyao could be used in the teaching of the subject. The findings of the study show that about 75% of the terms had their equivalence in both Chichewa and Chiyao; 15% lacked precision required in describing the mathematical concepts; a small percentage of the terms were borrowed from other languages. The majority of the parents had a positive attitude towards the use of local languages in teaching mathematics although some expressed fear for the future of education if children were taught in local languages. Most teachers were pessimistic about the use of local languages in teaching mathematics in primary schools. It is evident from the study that mathematics can be taught in Chichewa and Chiyao. However, it is necessary that more and precise terms are sought, and positive attitude towards the use of local languages in mathematics lessons is developed. In future there is need to conduct a major survey to include all the languages in the country