An exploration of language use by pre-primary school learners in nigeria

At the pre-primary school level in Nigeria, different languages are being used as the medium of instruction. It was observed that while learners in a particular school adopt language of immediate community, another one in another location use English language to learn. On the basis this that the languages use by pre-primary school learners in Nigeria was conceived. Vygotsky’s sociocultural learning theory was used to understand the study under investigation. Qualitative approach was adopted. This was followed by interpretive paradigm. Eight teachers with a sound knowledge of pre-primary education were purposively selected. Semi-interview question was developed to gather information from the teachers. The data was subjected to thematic analysis. From the study, it was revealed that teachers used language of immediate community, mother tongue and English language to teach in the pre-primary school. Additionally, that language was used to identify, present, discuss on object in the class and also development of literacy skills of the children.