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Learning an L2 is important because it gives an individual an opportunity to not only learn the way in which a people communicate but also the chance to understand the culture of the community in which the immigrant lives. Language is the expression of culture and the avenue by which all people advance to social, academic and economic success. This paper discusses the meaning of learning a new language in cultural and socio-economic terms and why it is so imperative that people have the supports they need to acquire linguistic skills.
Culture, Identity, and Language: Uncovering Human and Social Capital
As Cok and Novak-Lukanovic (n.d.) point out, language is not just the way we use words to communicate -- it is an expression of the totality of our personhood: our culture, our experience, our identity and our awareness. When learners do not become proficient in their L2, they lack the ability to identify the culture of the community in which they live and whose language they are meant to learn. They remain isolated, unable to befriend others or to add to their store of social and human capital assets. By not learning the language, they are not only handicapping their ability to communicate with others in their...
Instead of assimilating, they remain distant and disconnected and this creates problems for them socially, academically and professionally as they are without the supports they need to succeed in these areas.
When language learners do not become proficient in their L1 either, they are in an even worse position. They are typically without any recourse to assistance and fail to build relationships at all. As Hannum and Cerug (2014) note, the failure to succeed in language learning means that one's opportunities to rise socio-economically are a lot less likely to be made possible. So much depends upon language skills and competencies that to not possess them is to basically never grow, develop, mature or advance beyond the stages of a child.
Language and culture are inexplicably linked because language is an expression of culture -- it is the primary mode in which culture is communicated. Without language -- in all its various forms (written, oral, visual) -- the ideals, values, character, history, and beliefs of a people cannot find expression. Thus, language is the outlet through which…
References
Cox, l. and Novak-Lukanovic, S. (n.d.) Languages as Social Cohesion and Human
Capital. Retrieved from http://www.fm-kp.si/zalozba/ISBN/961dash6486dash71dash3/079dash089.pdf
Hannum, E.C. and Cerug, H.S. (2014). Linguistic Capital, Information Access and Economic Opportunity among Rural Young Adults in Western China. Retrieved from http://repository.upenn.edu/elmm/11
Culture Element Makes a Nation Distinct How cultural differences affect an international negotiation Gesteland (2002 p. 33) cites that understanding how culture is powerful in the outcomes and negotiation process is the first step in any international negotiations. Cultural differences shape the behaviours and perceptions of various parties in negotiation especially in the preparation stage. A company pursuing an international joint venture requires identifying an international company for negotiations. Managers who are
Silence too is an important part of communication in Singapore. It is customary to pause before answering a question, to indicate that the person has given the question the appropriate thought and consideration that is needed. Westerners habit of responding quickly to a question, to Singaporeans, often indicates thoughtlessness and rude behavior. Their demeanor is typically calm, and Westerners more aggressive style is often seen as off putting ("Singapore:
The Importance of Language in Understanding Culture Introduction One of the lesser known, but important, programs of the United Nations is to promote the preservation of the world's languages. The UNDESA has incorporated language into sustainability standards, in particular concerned about the preservation of the world's languages that are most at risk. Language, the group argues, represents a way of thinking for a people (UNDESA, 2016). By that logic, it is essential
A widely quoted and interesting functioning definition has been provided by Geert Hofstede who suggests that culture should be considered as software of a person's mind. He is reported to have said that each individual possesses certain patterns and forms of contemplation, emotions and possible acting that they have probably acquired during their life (Hofstede and Hofstede, 2005). Most of these patterns have been obtained through their early childhood experiences
Language and Social Grouping Language is used differently in different geographic groups, ethnic, age, gender, and socioeconomic groups (Williams, 2010). Geographic groups use the same languages in different dialects that belong to the particular geographic regions. Within each language are many different dialects that have been formed with different geographic locations and cultures. Shared words, experiences, cultures, and expressions are ethnic and shared elements of the social fabric. Language of a common
Americans going to Singapore to entertain the possibility of establishing business there, need to know each of the three cultures prefers to deal. Religion plays an important part in the cultural life of every country, and a peer-reviewed article in the Journal of International Business Research points out the cultural realities regarding the negotiation styles of Muslim Iranians, Buddhist Taiwanese and Christian Americans. The independent variables in this research --