International Education Systems and the Future of Global English

Global Education Systems and Approaches

Educational Priorities in Key Countries

• Finland: Prioritizes equitable learning and minimizes academic competition among children.
• South Korea: Utilizes advanced technology, though its educational system is highly demanding.
• Brazil: Provides support to low-income families to ensure children's school attendance.
• Kenya: Aims to increase school enrollment, particularly in rural areas.

Understanding Education and Globalization

Defining Education

In English: Education is the process of learning knowledge, skills, and values to grow as a person and live in society.

En español: La educación es el proceso de aprender conocimientos, habilidades y valores para crecer como persona y vivir en sociedad.

What is Global Education?

Global education is learning about the world, other cultures, languages, and global problems.

The Concept of Globalization

Globalization is the process that connects countries, facilitating the sharing of ideas, products, and culture.

The Global Spread and Future of English

Historical Factors Driving English Globalization

English spread around the world mainly because of the political, economic, and cultural power of its speakers. The British Empire, international trade, scientific advancements, and media helped make English a global language.

New Englishes: Local Linguistic Variations

In English: “New Englishes are local versions of English influenced by the culture and languages of the people who speak them.”

En español: “Los Nuevos Ingleses son versiones locales del inglés influenciadas por la cultura y los idiomas de las personas que las hablan.”

Expert Perspectives on English's Future

David Crystal

Crystal believes English will continue its global expansion, driven particularly by non-native speakers who adapt the language.

Tom McArthur

McArthur suggests English might fragment into multiple distinct languages in the future, similar to how Latin evolved into French, Spanish, and Italian. Different forms of English could exist in different places.

David Graddol

Graddol notes that other major languages (Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, Hindi) may increase in global importance.

Key Terminology in Global Linguistics and Education

• Lingua franca: A common language used between people of different native languages.
• Globalization: The process that connects countries, cultures, and economies.
• Standard English: The traditional, “neutral” international form of English.
• New Englishes: Local versions of English developed in different regions.
• Pidgin / Creole: Mixed languages resulting from the combination of English and local languages.
• Multidialectism: The use or understanding of many varieties of English.