Comments on: Does a language have to be European to be ‘modern’?

By: VinN

VinN — Sun, 26 Nov 2017 09:47:00 +0000

Hello Kiaer. As an Asian, I am glad that watching Asian languages are given increasing importance in the world.
I think the power of Asian language may be stronger in Oceania rather than in Europe. I think that is because of international trade and migration. Take Sydney for an example, its is easy to fine a class that teach a language other than English, and they have certain policy support. Furthermore, language service is accessible here. I think the reason may be the strong economic relationship between Australia and Asian and Southeast Asian countries.

By: Sara

Sara — Sat, 28 Oct 2017 05:49:00 +0000

l want to extend on what S.J.L. mentions ‘understanding people better in their target language.’ It is very abstract, however, if we were to shift this to understanding the culture better in the target language (although culture is dependent of its people). Some reluctancy is aided due to individuals beliefs and values that portrays a culture in a way that is perhaps distorted on a larger scale. A western view of those who have immersed themselves in that culture and language learning to better understand it despite economic purposes and the perception of an ‘European language’ on language valuing.

By: S. J. L.

S. J. L. — Fri, 22 Sep 2017 05:19:00 +0000

It is often said that learning a language can promote understanding the people who speak that language. Also, for the globalized society, it is important to cooperate with people speaking a different language. In this respect, teaching foreign languages particularly, Asian languages will help to enhance understanding of Asian cultures, so that people can collaborate with each other.

By: Tricia

Tricia — Mon, 29 May 2017 04:44:00 +0000

Thanks for this update, Jieun Kiaer! I guess any change is naturally met with resistance. But your persuasive efforts backed by empirical evidence will surely (albeit slowly) bear fruit in time. Press forward! 🙂