Monolinguals

           Despite the increasing globalization of the English language, monolingual English speakers are at a disadvantage today, as the use of a single language impacts the educational and business sectors.

 

           Students are often encouraged to learn a second language alongside their first. Whether it's through school classes or parent reinforcement, especially in international schools, learning additional languages is strongly encouraged. This encouragement is influenced by the fact that learning a second language builds student ability. According to Source A, students who speak a second language and excel do better when speaking their first language. Additionally, through the use of other languages and learning, individuals can become better thinkers, which students under school education strive for. Schools aim for their students to develop high cognitive ability, think critically, and become insightful learners, all of which speaking multiple languages can support, as students who learn languages at an early age display enhanced cognitive abilities and think better (Oaks). The addition of another language can also help students recognize cultural differences and appreciate traditions, making them more in touch with reality and culturally educated, given that language is a "gateway" to understanding other societies (Berman). Therefore, when in school, knowing a second language can be beneficial during history classes when analyzing other cultures, or when fostering friendships. Knowing about other cultures, for example, the culture of an individual you are attempting to foster a relationship with, can not only allow them to feel seen and accepted, which increases happiness, but it is also impressive. Moreover, additional languages learned can have multiple benefits, one benefit being that an individual may feel more comfortable in multicultural environments (Oaks). For students, this is key. Students at international schools, where other languages are spoken, may feel more comfortable communicating with staff or students when speaking the other language. For example, students at Shanghai American School speak primarily two languages: English and Chinese. Those who only speak English and not Chinese may find it uncomfortable speaking to staff and faculty as they only understand Chinese. This can prevent them from asking questions, ordering food, or asking them what toppings to put in their bagel. From personal experience, being a non-Chinese speaker at SAS has encouraged uncomfortable situations at times.

 

           Yet, monolingual English speakers in a school setting are not the only ones at a disadvantage. Monolingual English speakers working within business and those in daily life are also at a disadvantage. Being monolingual is a significant handicap in diplomatic, military, professional, and commercial contexts (Oaks), which makes sense. When communicating with other businesses in other countries, it may be easier and more effective if an individual speaks that certain language. All languages have their own specific characteristics; therefore, speaking that language can oftentimes make transactions easier, and business run smoother. Someone who speaks the same language as you can make you feel more seen and connected. This can apply to businesses. We often want to help those of the same nationality or culture. A business speaking to another business in their language can encourage the likelihood of allocating resources, as it can make them feel seen. If a business is seen as more understanding of other cultures, it portrays them as understanding other societies better, making them more favorable. Further, the skill of speaking multiple languages is effective because it provides a more "nimble-minded and productive in daily life" (Oaks). If one were to be living in a country where the primary language spoken is unfamiliar, they may find it hard to navigate through, foster relationships with their neighbors, or complete tasks, therefore creating an unproductive environment. Therefore, those who only acquire one language may face difficulties within that country, emphasizing the importance of being culturally in touch. If you end up learning additional languages, this can transform interactions with others (Oaks) and ultimately improve daily life. For example, when first moving to Korea, my limited understanding of Korean made it difficult to navigate. Yet, after learning Korean, I could communicate with shop workers, ask around stores to find my way, and foster relationships with my neighbors, all of which improved my standard of living. I overcame the uncomfortable fear of not being understood.

 

           Yet, are monolingual English speakers really at a disadvantage? For students at international school, to an extent they are troubled as it may sometimes be difficult to navigate. Yet, the English language is usually promoted to be spoken; therefore, the trouble some may run into is limited. Yet if living in countries where multiple languages are spoken, knowing all of them is not always beneficial, as you will only end up speaking a few (Thomas). Further, knowing additional languages that are spoken in other countries, but not the country you live in, may not serve any purpose in day-to-day life, as you wouldn't speak Mandarin in a country in Europe. Nor does learning one of the many languages used on the subcontinent help one communicate with Arab, Turkish, or Swahili speakers (Thomas). Therefore, it really depends. Knowing the language spoken within the country you live in is beneficial. Yet, if you move around often, the language you learned previously may not help in your new location. Furthermore, maintaining languages is hard. For students, balancing school work, SAT, tests, and college, may find it stressful to maintain their language, as there are significant effects to maintaining it (Oaks). Therefore, learning an additional language may not always be beneficial, especially if you're a junior preparing to apply for college.