Speaker
Description
This study investigates the phenomenon of language shift within the Thai ethnic community in Lao Cai, Vietnam, where the minority language is increasingly marginalized by the institutional dominance of Vietnamese and the pressures of globalization. The research problem centers on the potential disruption of intergenerational transmission and the narrowing of Thai language use to limited social domains among the younger generation. The primary objectives are to evaluate the extent of this linguistic shift, identify specific domains where Thai is being replaced by Vietnamese or English, and explore community-driven practices that support language maintenance. To achieve these goals, the study addresses three key research questions regarding the degree of language shift, the functional distribution of languages across domains (e.g., home, education, and commerce), and the specific mechanisms facilitating linguistic survival. Adopting a qualitative, interpretive methodology, the research employs semi-structured interviews and naturalistic observations conducted in multi-generational households and public settings in Lao Cai. Data analysis follows a thematic approach, integrating established sociolinguistic frameworks by Fishman, Holmes, and Spolsky. Preliminary findings from field observations indicate a significant shift toward Vietnamese in active communication among youth, contrasting with the Thai-dominant practices of older generations. This study contributes to the field by providing nuanced, context-specific insights into the lived linguistic experiences of minority speakers, offering a foundation for culturally sensitive language maintenance policies in contemporary Vietnam.