Di Niu
Van Herk (2018) accurately defined ‘mutual intelligibility’ in SLA in the conceptual context of sociolinguistics. I am curious if the ‘intelligibility’ stems from so-called globalization. Is this wave bringing new intelligibility? In fact, this term may also refer to the genuine integration of older generations into world Englishes (Lee, 2016). For example, younger generations in China may have been too focused on new globalized technologies rather than observing what is happening between older generations and the context of world Englishes. Their focus is more on the material by-products of globalization. My grandparents’ generation, on the other hand, may regard English as a self-opportunity that can redefine the mutual intelligibility between ‘I’ and the word. Should older generations in China be marginalized simply because they do not speak English?
After some consideration, I realized that this was incorrect. Because language is still inextricably linked to the socioeconomic context. In a society, the coexistence of older generations and word Englishes must be established. The older generations are, in fact, still involved in the globalized context of world Englishes. They are currently generating new possibilities in the context of sociolinguistics. My grandfather, for example, used to be an editor and, despite his retirement, continues to write and try to learn English in his own unique way. This proactive action contributes to China’s constant globalization scenarios. Indeed, this understanding of world Englishes underpins the sense of new intelligibility: In the globalized context, new mutual intelligibility has emerged between the sparking curiosity and creativity of older generations and world Englishes.
In other words, there is an important place for these seemingly marginalized groups because they interpret their intelligibility to English in their own way. As a result, these scenarios in real life are capable of bringing novel comprehension of globalization.
Furthermore, this new intelligibility is directly related to educational sociolinguistics. This shift in perspective would allow us to reconsider the role of learners in SLA. This type of reflection should take into account all societal scenarios. Consequently, using a macro perspective to draw a final conclusion from social phenomena is preferable. Moreover, in terms of world Englishes, the self-centered thinking model may at times ignore other groups in society. Basically, this intelligibility lies in thoroughly comprehending how SLA is linked to the entire society. Again, older generations will always be a part of the globalized world and will not be excluded. Therefore, I believe that the new intelligibility in globalization should be accompanied by a forward-looking vision as well as a humble attitude toward reconsidering older generations in world Englishes.
Finally, world Englishes represent an unprecedented high point in sociolinguistics. The situation varies from ‘place to ‘place’ (Van Herk, 2018). Learners discover the magic of SLA through practice, observation, and reflection. Nonetheless, in the age of globalization, such mutual intelligibility is emphasized. Finally, this new intelligibility arises from spontaneous participation (e.g., older generations) in the globalized context through one’s own interaction with world Englishes.
Questions:
Do you have any thoughts on the new ‘mutual intelligibility in the context of globalization?
Reference
Amin, A. (2020). Attitude Towards Language in Sociolinguistics Settings: A Brief Overview. REiLA: Journal of Research and Innovation in Language, 2(1), 27-30.
Crystal, D. (2003). English as a global language. Cambridge university press.
Li, F., & Shooshtari, N. H. (2003). Brand naming in China: Sociolinguistic implications. Multinational Business Review.
Lucas, C. (Ed.). (2001). The sociolinguistics of sign languages.
Koerner, K. (1991). Toward a history of modern sociolinguistics. American Speech, 66(1), 57-70.
Van Herk, G. (2018). What is sociolinguistics? (Second, Ser. Linguistics in the world). John Wiley & Sons.
