English promotes digital connectivity

As the most commonly used language on the internet, and the most widely spoken across the globe, English is the world’s best tool for spurring globalisation. With Covid-19 ushering in a new age of digital connectivity, the ability to communicate in a shared language presents an opportunity for people from different backgrounds to work together to achieve impressive feats – from sharing research on vaccine development, to participating in international peace summits via Zoom.

“Language is critical to building human connections, both online and offline. It forms the basis of how people identify with each other and their ability to build communities. It also impacts how well they can work together. The sheer volume of people who speak English makes it the most popular choice for those wanting to take an active part in the global community,” says Tom Gibbons, Director at The TEFL Academy, South Africa’s leading provider of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) qualifications.

In South Africa, English is the sixth most common home language, but the second most spoken language outside of the house. Worldwide, there are over 370-million first language English speakers, and over 740-million second language speakers. This demonstrates its reach as a medium of communication in public and professional spaces, both locally and abroad.

“In countries like Japan, China, and Korea, for example, children and businesspeople alike are increasingly relying on teachers of English as a foreign language to help open up the number of academic and career paths available to them,” says Gibbons.

In the international job market, there is a rising demand for people who are familiar with multiple languages. “Those who learn English as a second language are able to bridge the divide between speakers of different languages through translation. In this way, having a basic understanding of English can increase a person’s employability – as well as their earning potential,” says Gibbons.

Teachers of English as a foreign language also benefit from the language exchange, since they provide the foundations for these interactions. This places TEFL teachers at the forefront of globalisation, through their work as practitioners of language. The ability to teach online via virtual classrooms, or abroad in traditional classroom formats gives TEFL teachers a global reach.

Research has also shown that non-native English language speakers are better than native English speakers at communicating in ways that are accessible to everyone. “Those who speak – or teach – English as a second language, are more likely to use simple words and phrases, which is something that doesn’t come naturally to first language speakers,” says Gibbons.

“While there are drawbacks to English’s status as a lingua franca, including the fact that it gives an advantage to people born in predominantly English-speaking countries, it’s an undeniably useful tool in the worlds of business, entertainment, science and more,” says Gibbons.

Offering accessible, flexible and cost-effective ways to get TEFL qualified, The TEFL Academy provides internationally accredited and regulated online courses. The company also offers a dedicated 30-hour Teaching Business English course for those wanting to update their existing skillset. For more information, visit theteflacademy.com or follow The TEFL Academy on Instagram and Facebook.