Studying in Another Language - Essay Example

Studying in another Language Studying in another language is a process motivated by either the interest of learning another culture, or taking a foreign language. Although it present diverse lifelong benefits, studying in a foreign language presents an alienating situation. Apart from a change in linguistic space, one has to learn to formulate thoughts in a new language, different from the way the point could be presented in the native language. Learning a new language is a cumulative process that involves hard work and perseverance in which one has to build on the knowledge that has been accumulated as each day progresses. Studying is the process of learning something new and deriving meaning and significance from what is learnt. . Studying abroad often means that one has to study in another language. Language presents a different dimension on how a student perceives, appreciates, and understands information. However, there are several methods that exist presently, such as watching television or use of internet systems, unlike formal classes, that are beneficial in the learning process of a foreign language. Studying in another language is an unnecessary problem that has minimal benefits to scholars. Studying in another language changes the experience of study. Firstly, it involves meeting people with a dissimilar colour, different race, diverse cultural values, and specifically, a dissimilar language. There are different methods of learning, the common one being chatting and joking through which one can gain considerable experience. Culture constitutes an essential part of learning a foreign language despite the different views people may have in relation to culture (Cakir 154). Broadly, culture may be characterized as the way people live and interact verbally and nonverbally based on their upbringing. Understanding a language also involves understanding a culture to a considerable extent. According to Cakir “…it can be stated that a language is a part of culture and a culture is a part of a language” (79). In essence, the way a point is presented while studying in one culture may be different in another. Different cultural contexts presents dissimilar beliefs and understanding. Apart from communication problems, there are bound to be learning and studying challenges. In the end, there may be a miscommunication that may make the whole studying experience confusing and meaningless. Expressing oneself in a new language presents diverse challenges. One may fail to describe or explain what exactly they intend to present. In addition, listening to someone present an experience in a dissimilar language means that one may fail to understand some things that are important in the story (Whitehead 123). In essence, this means that there are several interesting details that may be left out in satisfactory understanding of the tale. Even so, language is integral in the presentation of ideas, no matter how challenging it may be in terms of expression (Bernat and Lloyd 82). One may in reality feel like an idiot in such cases, although he/she may have previously been an eloquent speaker in another world (Boxer and Cohen 8). In this case, one feels inferior for apparently no reason, merely because of inadequacy in expression. Research proves that the belief systems that one has determine how one performs academically, especially studying in another language (Bernat and Lloyd 79). Ultimately, this influences both learning and teaching methods in terms of negative beliefs. Bernat and Lloyd further elaborate that a negative behaviour may prejudice how one intents to study in another language. For instance, one may see grasping vocabulary as the most appropriate method of studying, which may not be the case for an instructor. Pronunciation is an important aspect in studying another language. In most cases, the way a word is written down may be similar in diverse languages, but be pronounced differently. For that reason, pronunciation involves a process of memorizing words and listening to audio recordings regularly. Sound forms the origin of all language. Although one may not entirely understand a language, there are some bits of pronunciation that may help one to comprehend what is being discussed. Lip and tongue movement are two important aspects that are considered in grasping pronunciation. Similar to sound, speaking is an important part in language learning in any academic context (Boxer and Cohen 4). After this, it is essential to understand the meaning, an integral component in pronunciation. Although it may be difficult how to perfect pronunciation, it is not entirely difficult a better pronunciation means that there will be a better understanding among parties. Songs and television programs are applicable strategies on perfecting pronunciation as a strategy of studying another language. Native speakers are bound to be impressed by someone who can express themselves easily than those who experience difficulties in pronunciation. In addition, it is necessary to identify the chosen accent. For instance, English has both a British and an American accent. So, while one may claim to be perfect in English pronunciation, there may exist a difference in how the two dialects are pronounced. In most cases, a teacher will not try to alter their pronunciation, while fellow students may be accustomed to their friend’s pronunciation to the point where they cease correcting their talk. Studying in another language involves persistent study, unlike other forms of courses in which one can study once or twice a week. It is a process of patience that cannot be related to studying in a native dialect. Eventually, this means that one cannot focus on other co-curricular activities that may be of use to a foreign student. Excessive concentration in classwork means that there is no much time for other activities. Even after one is done with studying and understanding, practice ensures that work is mastered and the new mode of speaking is adopted perfectly. As mentioned above, sometimes there is not much time to correct pronunciations, unless there is a considerable unintelligence in what is being said. In the main, this is a welcome relief to most students who may have to undergo long spells mastering their pronunciation. However, one may be rudely shocked when they interact with native speakers who are not tolerant of poor pronunciation. In the end, it is a painstaking process that is time-involving. Scholars must device easier ways of learning, for example, through the internet or television recordings that are gratifying. However, bilingualism present diverse advantages, and studying in a foreign language is beneficial if taken positively. There are diverse mental benefits associated with studying/understanding another language. The operations of bilingual or multilingual speakers are often different from those who speak a singular language. Studying in another language provides one with the ability to multitask easily. They are able to switch between speech, structure, and writing. In addition, it presents opportunities to have better memory and communicate fluidly in a multicultural setting. One becomes more perspective in terms of adaptations to the physical surroundings and interactions with peers and new friends. In essence, studying in another language provides one the opportunity to identify relevant information and disseminate information that may not be relevant to their study or existence. Through this, one can engage in rational decision making because one, in reality, thinks in two languages, meaning that they consider an option twice. A bilingual student essentially becomes skilful in communicating and writing, apart from the communication abilities. Conclusion The experience of study, cultural factors, expression, pronunciation, and persistent study all culminate in the outcome one has in studying in another language. A foreign language means cultural interactions, even if one is studying in their home country. It is essential to learn how to express oneself and pronounce words in an understandable manner. The challenges these factors present means that one has to undergo a painstaking process of studying that may undermine other meaningful experiences. While studying in another language may orchestrate confusion in the mind to some scholars, it also presents considerable benefits if taken positively. Although it may be problematic, there is the need to have a positive attitude in the process of study to undermine the negative stereotypes that accompany studying in another language. Works Cited Bernat, Eva and Lloyd, Rosemarie. Exploring the Gender Effect on EFL Learners’ Beliefs about Language Learning. Australian Journal of Educational & Developmental Psychology. Vol 7, 2007, pp. 79-91 Boxer, Diana and Cohen, Andrew. Studying Speaking to Inform Second Language Learning. New York: Multilingual Matters, Jan 1, 2004. Cakir, Ismail. Developing Cultural Awareness in Foreign Language Teaching. Turkish Online Journal of Distance Education-TOJDE July 2006 ISSN 1302-6488 Volume: 7 Number: 3 Article: 12 Whitehead, Sarah. It will be so much better (in English)!: Uses of English and Spanish in a Foreign Language Classroom. Electronic Journal of Foreign Language Teaching 2013, Vol. 10, No. 2, pp. 123–136. Read More