English Globalization

English Globalization

Globalization and Diversification of English {text:bookmark-start} {text:bookmark-start} Globalization and diversification of English 1. THE E*FFECTS OF GLOBALIZATION ON *ELT (*English Language Teaching*) 1.1 The effects of globalization on ELT The purpose of the previous chapter was to examine the current literature regarding globalization and to summarize the description of the spread of English as its accompaniment. The extensive spread of the English language has been ascribed to processes of globalization which developed after World War II and to the (re-)distribution of the language in the postcolonial context. An understanding of these events is essential for a satisfactory understanding of the shift in the conception of the language in the academic disciplines, particularly in the field of applied linguistics. Debates about the role of linguistic imperialism in English language teaching still have not been completely resolved. Moreover, the field of ELT has been greatly changed by increasing academic recognition of postcolonial varieties of English and emphasis on the importance of English as a tool of resistance. This change is reflected in the fact that the concept of the English language as such has been questioned and several scholars have suggested shifts in terminology and usage in response to this. As a result, problems have arisen about how to best describe the current state of the English language and educators have become concerned about what variety should be taught. Therefore, this chapter will review the shifting perception of the English language and will move towards establishing consensus about what is meant by the word ‘English’ in the age of globalization. 1.2 English renamed The recognition that English is no longer the property of its L1 speakers and that the language is also tied to its imperial past also brought on a shift in terminology in the field. As the label ‘English’ was perceived to be an adjective that described the...

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