This article is about language barriers for international students studying abroad and it's by Sharmeentariq.
A language barrier refers to challenges one might face when they have different language inputs or when they struggle to communicate fluently in a second language. This can be casual conversation language or academic-level language, they may understand aspects of different types of language but struggle with fluidity.
There can be a significant impact on the student's achievement level when having a language disability. Normally all lectures, readings, and assignments are articulated in advanced or very technical language so the student may struggle to understand. This can cause them to be stressed out and tired, having to translate all of the content. They can have a very good understanding of what is being taught but struggle to put it into words which can negatively impact their performance and cause them to lack confidence.
Language difficulties can negatively affect students’ social lives making it very hard for them to form a social circle and to make friends, as establishing friendships is all about communication. It can cause a lack of confidence, embarrassment, and being withdrawn from a conversation. The misunderstandings can happen due to cultural factors or language misuse which creates a disconnect between people unknown and causes them to not integrate with the community.
Language barriers can impact the student's mental health as the second language to them can be very mentally draining making them feel frustrated and lonely. Being away from family and friends makes students feel isolated as they cannot make meaningful communication with each other yet. The lack of confidence and self-esteem causes them to be withdrawn in class and group activities, it can also increase levels of anxiety and depression.
Adapting to a new language can be very hard but doing it through the natural everyday activities can really help integrate you into the language like local newspapers, watching shows, and listening to local music. Allows it you to start developing an understanding of a language in an enjoyable way, you can also do this through visiting spaces and listening to people talk like a café. This allows for an enhanced comprehension and to build confidence to help integrate students.
Universities play an important role in helping international students overcome language barriers they can offer local language classes to help support the students. This creates a very low-pressure environment with encouraging instructors so that the students are given patience and help.
Language learning is traditionally paired with cultural exchange since they are both heavily interlinked. Students who view language barriers as an opportunity to learn about their host country are more likely to be motivated and eager to practice their language. Cultural events and community activities allow international students to pick up slang and colloquial expressions. This allows them to have a deeper appreciation for the local culture which will lead to more meaningful relationships.
Language fluency is a step-by-step process and to be able to stay effective in teaching you have to be aware that it is a process. Unfortunately, students will face setbacks and knocks in confidence but with the right persistence and support students can begin to confidently communicate in the host country's language.
Language anxiety is very common for international students it develops from the worry of being judged or not speaking perfectly. It means that they become a lower participant in class interactions like discussions or queries. They can start to feel inadequate and have self-doubt as a result of feeling insecure about their language skills.