Rwandans Studying Chinese A Case Study at the University of Rwanda - Confucius Institute

Abstract

This paper explores Rwandan students’ reasons for learning Chinese. To date, most research on modern language use and acquisition has focused on European languages. This study in contrast focuses on Chinese as a modern foreign language that is gaining uptake in Rwanda. Based on survey data gathered from 46 students enrolled in Confucius Institute language programs, and on selected classroom observations, this study illustrates that most students surveyed learn Chinese in order to advance their own economic and social prospects. The study adds to current research on modern foreign language instruction in two ways. First, whereas a body of research suggests a decline in learners’ interests in foreign language learning, this study suggests that Rwandan students are highly motivated to learn a foreign language. Second, where many studies propose greater use of the targeted language in order to improve students’ interest in foreign languages, this study illustrates that Chinese language teachers are already actively using the targeted language of Chinese to teach Rwandan students.

Keywords: Chinese, Language acquisition, language pedagogy, Rwanda, comparative education