English Learning Questions
English learning questions and dilemmas you always thought about
Many English learners question whether they can learn a new language effectively, whether it’s worth it, and what are the benefits and losses. Some also ask if their personality will change while they use a foreign language. Let’s discuss some of these.
Can anyone learn English?
This is the question every teacher, language school, textbook writer, parent and English learner asks.
Is it possible that everyone can learn English? Can everyone learn a new language? Are some people unable to learn a language?
The English Language is now a global brand. Students will learn the language for multiple reasons and if there is a market for it and the resources available there will be schools and educators to teach it.
Can you learn English as an adult?
The one question that is repeatedly asked is, is it easier to learn a language when you’re younger as opposed to when you’re older? It can’t be argued that a young mind can take on far more and is more able to absorb the information it receives. However, is age truly an inhibiting factor? Surely one can take into account the fact that adults have numerous problems and responsibilities thus creating barriers for themselves and their learning. Indeed this duality or clash of priorities can also be seen in young people especially those who are transitioning into a new culture and are carrying the burden of the socio-political problems that may come from adopting the new language.
English learning and learner’s identity
It cannot be argued that an adult is more set in their ways and identity than a child, therefore an adult is not as flexible, or willing to absorb and adapt to the new.
However, children with all their struggles and joys of discovery may have issues with identity and where to place English with regard to its importance in their development.
Should I use Google Translate?
Another question English learners ask is whether it’s a good idea to use Google translations instead of a dictionary. We answer this question in this article:
Motivation to learn English
In cases where a student may be burdened with such thoughts, learning the language could be viewed as a confusing or negative experience, especially if there is no social or economic benefit coming as a result. Why learn a language when your life will be the same with or without it?
Learning English and British culture at the same time
It would be naive to assume that language is taught without some reference to culture but as teachers, it is a known fact that the ‘hidden curriculum’ carries this and what facets of the culture a student what’s to absorb is entirely up to them. So even if they do not leave with the language it’s highly likely they’ve learnt something about the culture. Therefore there is no real loss here.
So it would be important to once again ask the question ‘Can everyone learn English?’ If English is learnt merely as a tool to pass an exam, then yes. If English is seen as a tool merely to allow someone to navigate their environment, then yes. If English is seen as a tool to absorb all aspects of British culture then undoubtedly, yes.
Learn English and enjoy it!
But of course in order to learn the language, enjoyment must be experienced by the learner and there is no shortage of that in a city like London.