ENGL 44500 - World Englishes

World Englishes refers to the differences in the English language that emerge as it is used in various contexts across the world by a majority of “non-native” speakers engaging with other “non-native” speakers. This course investigates the use, spread, and development of Englishes in different regions of the world.

Cr. 3
Student Learning Outcomes
1. Recognize that ownership of English should be viewed as a global concept and meaning is achieved through communication and negotiation, not through adherence to a “native” English - speaking norm.
2. Reflect critically on the role English plays government institutions (e.g., debates over English as an official or quasi-official language in these institutions), international business, international relations and diplomacy, international organizations (e.g., ASEAN, EU), journalism, political unity, scientific advancement, and higher education.
3. Identify and reflect on linguistic prejudice towards certain varieties of Englishes and how such prejudice can be combated.
4. Understand the history, status and function of English in different parts of the world in relation to the role of local languages.
5. Develop critical awareness of the spread of English as a global language on linguistic communities and how language policies can result in linguicism and linguistic genocide as well as empower communities through appropriation of English as a tool.
6. Understand the implications of English being a global lingua franca on English language teaching and education systems in general.
7. Understand in multilingual societies how translanguaging is a growingly recognized social norm of communication, meaning making, and a sign of identity for multilingual individuals.
8. Dispel language myths surrounding English that lead to injustice, discrimination, and lack of access to material resources.