VIENTIANE, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Laos' Ministry of Education and Sports has launched new research to identify factors that promote Lao language skills and literacy among primary school students, particularly those who do not speak Lao as their primary language at home.
The study, with support from the Australian government through the Basic Education Quality and Access in Laos (BEQUAL) program, will track students' learning development over the course of a school year and examine how teaching methods, classroom environments, instructional materials, and other factors contribute to their progress. It will also explore ways to help teachers better address the needs of students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
Strong language and literacy skills in primary school provide an important foundation for future learning, the local Pasaxon newspaper reported on Wednesday.
The research aims to help ensure that children who begin school with limited Lao language proficiency can participate fully in classroom activities, improve their academic performance, remain engaged in their education, and reduce the risk of early school dropout.
The findings are expected to inform future curriculum development, improvements to teaching and learning materials, teacher professional development, and supplementary Lao language lessons using speaking-practice materials.
The research will also support Laos' broader education priorities, including the 6+3+3 curriculum reform, curriculum and instructional-material improvements, and continuous professional development for teachers. ■