Slovenian and Hungarian Young Learners’ Perceptions and Attitudes Concerning Their Neighbouring Countries

  • Author: Mihaela Brumen
  • Institution: University of Maribor, Slovenia
  • Author: Rok Grkinič
  • Institution: Primary School IV Murska Sobota, Slovenia
  • Author: Branka Čagran
  • Institution: University of Maribor, Slovenia
  • Year of publication: 2012
  • Source: Show
  • Pages: 206-216
  • DOI Address: https://doi.org/10.15804/tner.12.30.4.16
  • PDF: tner/201204/tner3016.pdf

This paper presents empirical research concerning Slovenian and Hungarian young learners’ (7–11 years of age) travel experiences, perceptions, and beliefs about their neighbouring countries (Austria, Croatia, Hungary, and Slovenia) and their citizens in order to enhance effective cross-border institutional cooperation. A non-random sample of young learners (n=200) from Slovenian and Hungarian primary schools in the border area participated in the study. The results highlight that young learners’ personal contacts with local people and travel events develop positive perceptions and understanding of their neighbouring national groups. Young learners also perceive socio-economic inequalities, however their knowledge of neighbouring languages is the key element in developing their awareness of and positive attitudes to cross-border cooperation.

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cross-border understanding modern languages young learners attitudes perception

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