Cultivating the linguistic garden : exploring the pedagogical approaches and challenges in teaching Maltese as a second language to international adults

Abstract

This study investigates the challenges and pedagogical strategies in teaching Maltese as a second language (ML2) to international adults in Malta’s multilingual context. With both Maltese and English as official languages, the rise in migrant populations since 2014 has created a need for effective ML2 instruction, leading to the development of new teaching approaches and teacher training initiatives starting in 2018. Through qualitative research involving 36 experienced Maltese language teachers, the study examines the use of plurilingual approaches, the role of heritage languages in language transfer, and the challenges posed by the lack of digital resources, such as language-specific apps, films, and immersive technologies like virtual reality. Findings reveal the potential of leveraging learners’ first languages to aid comprehension, alongside the importance of inclusive strategies in multilingual classrooms. The study also identifies the urgent need for investment in digital tools and platforms to support learner engagement and autonomy. It concludes by emphasising the value of pedagogical innovation, enhanced digital access, and the strategic use of learners’ linguistic repertoires to strengthen outcomes in ML2 acquisition and integration.