Overcoming Cultural Obstacles in Language Learning

Summary

In this video, Steve Kaufmann discusses the challenges language learners face when trying to integrate into a new culture. He emphasizes that language is not only a tool for communication but also a gateway to understanding and imitating the culture. Kaufmann encourages learners to embrace being outsiders, persist despite potential cultural resistance, and focus on improving their language skills. Ultimately, he believes that with perseverance, language learners will find acceptance and belonging in the culture they are learning about, highlighting the importance of cultural humility and persistence.

Takeaways

• 😀 Language learning involves imitating aspects of another culture, as the language is inherently tied to that culture.
• 😀 As an outsider, language learners often face resistance or lack of acceptance from the in-group due to differences in language and culture.
• 😀 Fluency can lessen the perception of being an outsider, but even fluent speakers might still be seen as foreigners.
• 😀 The responsibility lies with the outsider to integrate, rather than expect the in-group to accept them immediately.
• 😀 Language learners should avoid feeling superior about their own language or culture and focus on being open to others.
• 😀 The goal is not to promote one's own culture but to immerse oneself in and learn about the target culture through language.
• 😀 Even when faced with rejection or resistance, language learners should persist and continue to engage with the culture.
• 😀 There will always be individuals in the target culture who will accept the language learner for who they are.
• 😀 Cultural acceptance grows as language proficiency improves, making learners more integrated over time.
• 😀 Cultural obstacles in language learning are natural, and overcoming them requires persistence, patience, and a focus on learning and integration.

Q & A

What is the main topic of Steve Kaufmann's video?

The main topic of the video is the concept of cultural obstacles in language learning, and how learners can navigate them when trying to integrate into a new culture.

How does Kaufmann describe the relationship between language and culture?

Kaufmann explains that language is an integral part of culture. When learning a language, a person is essentially imitating parts of another culture, which can make them an outsider until they reach fluency.

What role does being an outsider play in the process of learning a new language?

Being an outsider can create challenges, as learners may face resistance from the in-group due to their accent, cultural unfamiliarity, or other differences. Kaufmann suggests that learners need to accept this outsider status as part of the journey.

What does Kaufmann say about the attitude a language learner should adopt?

Kaufmann advises language learners to approach their journey with humility and not worry about being accepted or about their accent. He emphasizes the importance of wanting to be part of the culture rather than asserting superiority of one's own language.

How should a language learner react to resistance or rejection from native speakers?

Kaufmann suggests that learners should not be easily offended by resistance or rejection. Instead, they should keep pushing forward, understanding that not everyone will accept them, but many will, and they will eventually improve their language skills.

According to Kaufmann, how can learners improve their acceptance within a cultural group?

Learners can improve their acceptance within a cultural group by continuously improving their language skills. As their proficiency grows, native speakers will become more welcoming and view them as part of the group.

What does Kaufmann mean by 'cultural obstacles'?

Cultural obstacles refer to the challenges language learners face when attempting to integrate into a new cultural environment. These obstacles can be social, psychological, or linguistic, as learners try to navigate cultural norms and expectations while learning a new language.

What is Kaufmann's perspective on the role of accent in language learning?

Kaufmann acknowledges that accents may mark learners as outsiders, but he advises learners not to focus on perfection or fear judgment. Instead, they should accept that their accent is part of the process and continue to work on improving their language skills.

How does Kaufmann view the relationship between language and identity?

Kaufmann views language as a means of connecting with and understanding another culture. He sees language learning as a way of entering a cultural space rather than a means of asserting one's own cultural superiority.

What is Kaufmann's advice for overcoming feelings of rejection during the language learning process?

Kaufmann advises learners to persevere and not get discouraged by feelings of rejection. He suggests that learners should continue working on their language skills and focus on finding those who will accept them, knowing that cultural integration takes time.