In this modern world where technology brings us closer than ever together, it's only natural that we are going to want to communicate with each other. Therefore, knowing how to speak another language is becoming a crucial skill to have, our world is run through social media, in fact, the media, in general, is our main source of information on what happens in day-to-day life.
Especially right now, as I write this thousands of people have been displaced by war and their only connection to their homeland is the media and social media.
I'm writing this post for people like the Ukrainians who are far from home right now, and for all of those who have grown up in countries where English isn’t spoken as a first language. Knowing how to speak English can open up doors.
"One language sets you in a corridor for life. Two languages open every door along the way."
- Frank Smith
What is Meant by the Term English as a Foreign Language?
Whether you are looking for a new job or planning to travel the world, studying English as a second/foreign language can help you progress in life both personally and professionally... But, let's first ask an important question...
What Is English As A Foreign Language?
English as a foreign language, otherwise known as EFL, is the study of English by non-native speakers who live in a country where English is not the official language (or, the official second language).
Because English is the world’s “Lingua Franca” (a common language that’s used to bridge together speakers of other languages), non-native speakers are learning English as a foreign language in order to take advantage of the benefits which come with it.
Differences Between EFL And ESL
If you’ve heard of the term “English as a Foreign Language” or EFL, then you may have also heard the term “English as a Second Language” or ESL. The two are often used interchangeably, but they are actually different. While EFL refers to the study of English in a country where English is not the dominant language or second language, ESL refers to the study of English in a country where it is (but may not be the native language of a majority of the population).
Some of the Challenges for Those Learning English as a Second or Foreign Language
When you start your English language education, you will run into some challenges, but that's the same for everyone who starts off learning a new language. Challenges are normal and they can be overcome.
Below are a few of the most common challenges people have noted when they embark on the journey of learning English:
- Pronunciation - English has a number of sounds that do not exist in other languages, making it hard for EFL students to pronounce. An example of this is how some Korean, Japanese, and Chinese dialects may have trouble distinguishing between the “L” sound and “R” sound. This is called “lallation.”
- Grammar - English grammar and sentence structure can be difficult for English learners. These can include:
- Functions and auxiliaries, e.g., “do/does/did”
- Modal verbs, e.g., “can”, “must”, “have to”
- Literacy - Learning to read in any language can be hard, but learning to read in a foreign language can be very tricky.
- First-Language Literacy: This is if you have not completed literacy instruction in your native language before learning to read in English.
- Second-Language Literacy: This refers to students who are proficient in speaking a language, but have not learned to read or write.
"I speak Spanish to God, Italian to women, French to men, and German to my horse."
- Charles V
Benefits Of Learning English as a Foreign / Second Language
Now that we know about some of the challenges you will face when learning English as a foreign language or second language, you may be wondering what the benefits are...
"Of all of our inventions for mass communication, pictures still speak the most universally understood language."
- Walt Disney
Let's start with the fun stuff!
Social and Cultural Benefits
When you travel, you’ll be able to actively engage and communicate with others, it’s about soaking up the culture and colloquialisms; delving into a brand new society with an open heart, and one hell of an enquiring mind!
Just think of the many places aside from England that speak English as a first language that you could travel to and explore, Ireland, Australia, Scotland, Wales, Canada, America, New Zealand and more!
Learning English Gives you Access to More of the Internet
Is it estimated that over 52% of the websites on the Internet are in English, therefore by learning the language you will have access to over half the content on the Internet? Which is a lot of information, some of which may even come in useful, especially when you're in school or college, having access to those billions of websites, especially educational ones, when you're doing assignments and thesis is extremely important so why not give yourself the access to that extra information that's available to you.
Access to a World of Entertainment
A lot of the most popular movies, books, TV series and songs are produced and published in English first. This means by learning English you will have access to all your favourite entertainment and you won't even need to rely on translations and subtitles anymore to enjoy it!
English as a Second Language Means a Chance to Study College Abroad
Studying English abroad is often a game-changer for many individuals and quite often you will hear students say it's the best decision of their life.
Earlier I mentioned a list of countries that speak English as a first language:
- America
- Australia
- Canada
- England
- Ireland
- New Zealand
- Scotland
- Wales
But that's just the start of the list, in reality, there are several more including the Bahamas and Jamaica, seriously could you imagine saying you studied your college education in some of the most beautiful parts of the world?
Finishing your education in an English speaking country is the perfect way to gain exposure to the language, and gain a sort of fluency.
Ways to Finish your Education / Study Abroad
The Erasmus
The Erasmus programme (short for the European Community Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students) is an initiative run by the EU. It provides opportunities for students to study or gain work experience in a different European country while completing a degree.
To be eligible for the Erasmus you must be in a higher education institution, and be in your second year of study. Students based in EU countries are eligible for all aspects of the programme, and some non-EU European countries are also eligible, such as Norway and Iceland.
The J1 - US Visa
The J-1 exchange visitor visa is for educational and cultural exchange programs designated by the Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The Q-1 visa is for participation in certain international cultural exchange programs.
In order to be eligible, participants must be between the ages of 15 and 18.5 by the first day of school. They must not have completed more than 11 years of primary and secondary school (excluding pre-school), and they must not have previously participated in a secondary school exchange program in the US.
J1 visas are also quite easy to get approved. The length of stay depends on the type of activity. Those pursuing education / study may get a visa for up to three years, while those looking for the summer working Visa will typically only get a 3-month stay with one month of travel added on at the end. Extensions are also variable, depending on the category of visa.
Currently, the fee is $160 USD, however, the fee is subject to change and applicants are advised to check the US Embassy website prior to their embassy interview for the most up-to-date fee.
Whether you decide to travel just to mingle with the native speakers or there is a specific class at a college you always dreamed of going to abroad we wish you the very best of luck embarking on your journey of learning English.
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