Typically, Learning a language encompasses much more then repetitive grammar drills. Language and culture are integral aspects of one another and learning about a culture is often part of a language class. This exposure to another culture can provide avenues of understanding into the students culture. In today's diverse society, individual are surrounded by native speakers of other languages. It is of critical importance that we have a way of relating to each other and language is one of the most authentic ways in which to accomplish this goal.
On a personal note, the benefits of learning a language have far superseded anything else in my educational career. I have met many people and I never have been afraid to practice my many languages with them, even if I only knew a few words. These connections never would have flourished if I didn't learn a language.
I really appreciate that you considered the cultural learning that is involved in acquiring a language. I had focused on the improvement of communication skills that comes with learning a language, but I hadn't really thought about how important cultural awareness has become as a "life skill;" it grows more and more important to being successful in any career, or just to personal development.
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree with both of you about how learning a language is good for personal development. Even if you do not know a language very well, at least you can relate to the culture that it comes from, or have an easier time relating to a foreign culture. Also, I love how you included how nice people have been about talking to you. It can be tough, but does make for great connections.
ReplyDeleteI like your comments because I think they touch on an important topic - the way in which language can offer unique avenues through which to attain cultural understanding. One can easily study a culture, and perhaps even visit the country itself, but it is not until one can truly experience the culture through the eyes of that population that he or she truly understands. Language is a HUGE cultural barrier that goes far beyond communication. Trying to understand a culture without being able to live within it is almost impossible. While studying in Peru, my understanding of the local culture seemed to be far better than that of the many tourists visiting, mostly because of my ability to communicate. Although I remained an outside because of my nationality, being able to speak with Peruvians in their own language broke down many barriers. People I interacted with began to see me as less of a tourist and more of someone to whom they could relate.
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