Bilingual education as pathway to STEM equity

Sustaining the Slovak minority language in Poland’s school system

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/59s62r80

Keywords:

Slovak language; education; bilingualism; cultural identity; minority rights

Abstract

This study examines how bilingual education supports both the preservation of the Slovak minority language and equitable access to STEM education in Poland. Drawing on qualitative interviews with educators and school leaders, it explores how institutional policies, curriculum, and sociopolitical contexts shape the integration of Slovak-language instruction with STEM learning. Findings indicate that Slovak-language schools serve as important spaces for cultural continuity while also promoting inclusive STEM participation. Bilingual instruction enhances cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and student engagement—key competencies for STEM success. The use of digital tools further strengthens both language development and STEM learning. The study highlights minority-language education as a strategic pathway for advancing equity, innovation, and diversity in STEM fields.

 

Author Biography

  • Marek Bryja, University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Trnava

    MAREK BRYJA, based in Poland, holds a master's degree in

    Ethnology from the University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Trnava –

    Slovakia. He is dedicated to preserving Slovak culture and pursuing a

    PhD on the Slovak minority in Poland, while also working as an

    educator. Email: marekbryja34@gmail.com

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Additional Files

Published

2026-04-09

Issue

Vol. 20 (2026): American Journal of STEM Education

Section

STEM Education (regular)

License

Copyright (c) 2026 Marek Bryja

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Copyright (c) [year] [author]
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
This license permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0

How to Cite

Bryja, M. (2026). Bilingual education as pathway to STEM equity: Sustaining the Slovak minority language in Poland’s school system. American Journal of STEM Education, 20, 185-210. https://doi.org/10.32674/59s62r80