LANGUAGE IN INDIA

Strength for Today and Bright Hope for Tomorrow

Volume 11 : 9 September 2011
ISSN 1930-2940

Managing Editor: M. S. Thirumalai, Ph.D.
Editors: B. Mallikarjun, Ph.D.
         Sam Mohanlal, Ph.D.
         B. A. Sharada, Ph.D.
         A. R. Fatihi, Ph.D.
         Lakhan Gusain, Ph.D.
         Jennifer Marie Bayer, Ph.D.
         S. M. Ravichandran, Ph.D.
         G. Baskaran, Ph.D.
         L. Ramamoorthy, Ph.D.

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A Perspective on English as a Language of International Communication: a Study of University Learners

Rajakumar Guduru, Ph.D. ELT Scholar

Abstract

English as a global language made its mark in every field and has immensely contributed to growth and development of human progression. Today, the use of English in international communication is not limited to business and politics alone, but extends to all other sectors of contemporary life such as science and technology, sports, entertainment, and so on. Thus, in the contemporary world, the status of English as an international language can hardly be questioned (Crystal, 1997). However, it is quite interesting to learn how certain European countries, especially Germany, could maintain the world standard economic progression with minimal use of English as a language of communication in business transactions as well as socio-cultural interactions. To understand the saying ‘today’s learners are tomorrow’s nation builders’ better, the university learners’ (Technical University of Dresden, Germany) perspective on ‘English as language of international communication’ was studied. The study throws light on three aspects: one, the role of English as a foreign language in today’s global world; two, German language and the influence of English on German language; and three, German university learners’ beliefs on English as a language of international communication. And finally it offers the findings, and implication for learners.

1. Background

I got selected on the student exchange programme for a summer semester with Technical University of Dresden, Germany. When I was about to leave for Germany, I started to imagine myself among the new people, new language and culture. There were too many apprehensions about my stay in Europe for the next six months. Even though my friends had repeatedly asked me if knew any German, I did not realize the importance of German as a language. A gentleman even lent me two basic travel guide books in German language, suggesting me to pick up some German before I left. Although it sounded as a warning, I was reluctant to even pick up few phrases. It was because I thought I could very well manage to survive in Germany with the knowledge of English I had. But very soon, even before I left for Germany, I had to put up with the tough experience of German when I was asked to attach copies of covering letter, financial statement, and others in German translation while applying for visa, by the Consulate of Germany. At times, I felt quite frustrated with this tedious procedure but I could hardly help myself.

This is only the beginning part of the article. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ THE ARTICLE IN PRINTER-FRIENDLY VERSION.

Rajakumar Guduru, M.A., M. Phil., Ph. D. ELT. Scholar
EFL University
Tarnaka
Hyderabad 500 605
Andhra Pradesh, India
raja.ciefl@gmail.com
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