Jack C. Richards on English as an International Language

Summary

The speaker explores the concept of English as an international language, emphasizing its global role beyond native-speaking countries. English is now a universal tool for communication, used by people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The idea that English is detached from its traditional roots allows speakers to embrace their own accents and cultural identities. In language education, the focus should be on fostering fluency and comfort, rather than expecting learners to mimic native accents. Teachers should be open-minded, flexible, and encourage the use of English as a tool for communication, regardless of accent or origin.

Takeaways

• 😀 English has evolved from being the property of specific English-speaking countries to a global language used by people worldwide.
• 🌍 English is no longer limited to native speakers; it is used by people from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds as a common communication tool.
• 🇬🇧🇺🇸 English is no longer tied to the culture or identity of countries like the UK or the U.S., but is now a neutral language available to everyone.
• 💬 English is used in diverse contexts, such as business negotiations between people from different countries, where both parties might be non-native speakers.
• 🌐 English is considered an international language, serving as a global commodity that can be used by anyone for practical purposes, irrespective of cultural origin.
• 🗣️ When speaking English, people are often more comfortable using accents and features from their own native languages, which reflect their cultural identity.
• 📚 The way a person speaks English should not be judged as 'incorrect' based on whether it mimics a native speaker's accent or dialect.
• 🎓 Language teaching should focus on the ability to communicate effectively in English, rather than teaching a 'standard' native speaker accent or dialect.
• 🌏 English should be taught with an understanding that it is spoken differently by different people around the world, reflecting various cultural backgrounds.
• 🤝 In teaching English, it is important to foster a flexible and tolerant attitude towards different English varieties, promoting fluency over perfection in accent.
• 📖 The spread of English globally raises the need for educators to expose students to various English varieties, helping them feel comfortable using English in diverse real-world situations.

Q & A

What is the historical view of English before it became an international language?

Historically, English was seen as the property of native English-speaking countries, such as the UK, the US, and Australia, with distinct varieties like British and American English.

How has English evolved into an international language?

English has evolved into a global commodity, used by people worldwide for communication, regardless of their native language. It is no longer limited to English-speaking countries.

Who are the current users of English as an international language?

English is used by non-native speakers from diverse linguistic backgrounds, such as Germans speaking to French people, Chinese businessmen speaking to Japanese counterparts, and Brazilians speaking to Mexicans.

What does it mean for English to be a 'neutral commodity'?

As a neutral commodity, English is detached from the cultural identities of native English-speaking countries. It is no longer tied to British, American, or Australian culture, and can be used by anyone according to their needs.

Why is it no longer necessary for learners to adopt a native accent when learning English?

Learners of English are increasingly comfortable using their own accents and cultural identity while speaking the language. Speaking with a native accent is no longer seen as essential for effective communication.

How does a learner's accent impact their use of English?

A learner's accent reflects their cultural background and does not diminish their ability to communicate effectively in English. For example, a Japanese person may speak English with a Japanese accent, which does not make them any less proficient in the language.

What does the speaker mean by 'English as an international language'?

The term 'English as an international language' refers to the way English is used globally by diverse people, often as a second language, for communication in business, education, travel, and more, irrespective of cultural origins.

What implications does the concept of English as an international language have for language teaching?

It suggests that teachers should be more flexible and tolerant in their approach, focusing on effective communication rather than strictly adhering to native pronunciation or grammar. It also encourages learners to be confident in their own use of English.

What is the role of language teachers in this new perspective on English?

Teachers should promote fluency and confidence in English, ensuring that students feel comfortable using the language in ways that reflect their own identities, without the pressure to conform to native norms.

How does English as an international language affect learners' sense of identity?

Learners can use English in a way that reflects their own cultural identity, which may involve speaking with a local accent or incorporating elements of their first language, without feeling pressured to adopt a 'native' style.