Heritage language loss, maintenance, and cultural adaptation among Korean immigrant families

• Main Author: Kim, Minji
• Other Authors: Schmidt, Clea (Curriculum, Teaching and Learning)
• Published: 2015
• Subjects: Language maintenance; Korean immigrants
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/1993/30381

This research analyzes case studies of Korean immigrant families in Canada regarding their attitudes and efforts toward Korean language maintenance. Through the life experiences of Korean immigrant families, this study examines 1) the role of the Korean language in Korean immigrant families, 2) parenting methods and attitudes towards maintaining the use of the Korean language, 3) challenges regarding cultural adaptation, and 4) the effects of Korean language loss within Korean immigrant families. Perspectives from Korean immigrant parents will be explored to examine how Korean language loss impacts the family in the context of relationships, cultural values, and identities. Furthermore, the ability of future generations of Korean immigrant families to maintain the Korean language will be discussed. Finally, the study will suggest alternative approaches to maintaining the Korean language to assist Korean immigrants in the future.