Wood17 May 2000 MultilingualismImagine finding yourself in a strange place where no one speaks your language or understands you and you cannot find anyone to help you. This is a very possible scenario in a world of so many tongues and cultures. Because international travel and communication via the internet are becoming more and more common, the chances of needing language proficiency are growing. Resistance and closed mindedness of some groups have prevented the spread of multilingualism, which is much needed in an ever shrinking global society.There are many ways to acquire proficiency in languages other than your own. Most schools in the U.S. and around the world teach foreign languages, and in most places, these courses are required. Much literature has been produced to teach languages. There are also computer programs available. Immersion and foreign studies programs are very effective ways of language learning. It is best to know one's native language well before attempting the mastery of another in some cases. Navaho children originally schooled in Navaho had higher reading competency scores English than Navoho children initially schooled in English (Fishman 4). It is very advantageous for anyone to become multilingual, as there are many opportunities available in the area. In some cases, learning English means better jobs and a better understanding of the world around you. It means having a voice in the world. Thousands of immigrants to the U.S. as well as people worldwide strive to learn English daily. Most students in today's colleges worldwide are studying to become multilingual (Ferrell and Hotz 6). Radford 2English is a very dominant language in the world today. This is due, in part, to the internet. Many of the first computers were American made and des...
