Heritage Language Learners' Language Availability and Choice: A Case Study of Primary School Persian Learners in Australia

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Heritage Language Learners' Language Availability and Choice: A Case Study of Primary School Persian Learners in Australia
Language: English
Authors: Mojgan Mokhatebi Ardakani (ORCID 0000-0002-8408-1973), Dara Tafazoli (ORCID 0000-0001-7082-2286)
Source: Foreign Language Annals. 2026 59(2):358-382.
Availability: Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 25
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Native Language, Indo European Languages, Bilingualism, Language Proficiency, Children, Elementary School Students, Family Environment, Family Influence, Peer Relationship, Language Usage, Informal Education
Geographic Terms: Australia
DOI: 10.1111/flan.70010
ISSN: 0015-718X
1944-9720
Abstract: This study investigates the factors influencing Persian language learning among heritage language learners in Sydney, Australia, with a particular focus on how formal and informal settings shape language choice and availability. The research employs a qualitative case study approach, incorporating data from student focus groups, semi-structured interviews with parents and teachers, and classroom observations at four Persian community language schools. Key findings highlight the role of social interaction, language proficiency, and bilingualism in shaping heritage language (HL) learners' language choices. The study proposes a model that explains the interrelationship between language proficiency, interlocutor, and tendency. The findings have pedagogical implications, suggesting strategies for bilingual immersion, digital learning integration, and parental engagement to support HL development. Future research could explore Persian HL learners in diverse contexts and investigate the impact of digital media on HL learning.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1508744
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:This study investigates the factors influencing Persian language learning among heritage language learners in Sydney, Australia, with a particular focus on how formal and informal settings shape language choice and availability. The research employs a qualitative case study approach, incorporating data from student focus groups, semi-structured interviews with parents and teachers, and classroom observations at four Persian community language schools. Key findings highlight the role of social interaction, language proficiency, and bilingualism in shaping heritage language (HL) learners' language choices. The study proposes a model that explains the interrelationship between language proficiency, interlocutor, and tendency. The findings have pedagogical implications, suggesting strategies for bilingual immersion, digital learning integration, and parental engagement to support HL development. Future research could explore Persian HL learners in diverse contexts and investigate the impact of digital media on HL learning.
ISSN:0015-718X
1944-9720
DOI:10.1111/flan.70010