Proficiency in Acquiring the National (Slovak) Language within a Primary School in which Hungarian Serves as the Language of Instruction

Dr. hab. István Szőköl, PhD. & Jakub Hriňák, PhD., University of Trnava, Slovakia

Abstract

The modernisation of Slovak language and Slovak literature teaching, along with the political, social and linguistic demands of society, determines the complex specific goal of teaching the Slovak language as a second language. This goal primarily encompasses practical, active language use, the development of students' creative and intellectual skills, and knowledge of the Slovak cultural values based on the appropriateness of age and language code. The problem of improving the quality of Slovak language teaching in schools in which Hungarian serves as the language of instruction requires a comprehensive approach that will actively involve educators. This research aims to analyse the importance of further developing educators' competencies and the need to implement student-centred learning into education. Additionally, the research paper will elucidate the significance of supporting individualised learning, the creation of an inclusive classroom environment, the specification of the output competencies of learners according to the language and social environment, the creation of interactive teaching materials, more efficient and effective implementation of information and communication technologies and open educational digital resources. Furthermore, the study aims to examine the findings presented in other research studies dealing with the quality of Slovak language teaching in Hungarian-language schools. Schools recognise the necessity of enhancing teachers' digital competencies, enabling them to use digital technologies that can help them innovate educational programs. These digital competencies can also facilitate the implementation of innovative educational techniques, didactic tools in the educational process, self-evaluation processes, and more.

Keywords: Slovak Language, Primary School, National Language, Elementary Schools, Teacher Training