Myers Scotton (2006). Who is a bilingual What factors promote bilingualism

Who is a Bilingual?

Introduction to Bilingualism

• Definition: A bilingual person uses two or more languages regularly, but proficiency may vary.

• Common Misconceptions: Many definitions of bilingualism exist, often too strict, like requiring native-like fluency, which excludes many speakers.

Voices from Ecuador

• Alberto Gallegos: Civil engineer in Ecuador who speaks Spanish (first language), English (fluent after a year in the U.S.), and some Quichua (little usage).

  • Background: Main language in Ecuador is Spanish; Quichua is spoken by indigenous populations.

  • Usage: Uses English in professional contacts and enjoys American sports, desires bilingual education for his children.

• Pedro Lema: Weaver in Quito, whose first language is Quichua; uses Spanish for business.

  • Background: Integrates both languages in social exchanges. Takes English classes to improve proficiency.

Bilingual Children

• Concept of Dominance: Bilinguals tend to develop dominance in one language due to social environment and usage patterns.

• Critical Age Hypothesis: Suggests children acquire languages easily before puberty; adults find it more challenging.

• Examples of Children Learning Languages: Children of immigrants may learn local languages rapidly compared to their parents.

Language Learning Later in Life

• Good Language Learners: Some adults have innate abilities to learn languages easily under specific circumstances.

  • Social Component: Often in multilingual communities or minority groups where multiple language use is necessary.

• Examples: Quechua speakers in Bolivia or Berbers required to learn dominant languages for socio-economic reasons.

Individual and Community Repertoires

• Reasons for Learning Languages: Typically reflect social needs; not commonly learned purely for fun.

• Uneven Language Proficiency: Individual circumstances and opportunities create varied linguistic repertoires within communities.

  • Challenge with Claims: People may claim speaking multiple languages; this requires assessing actual conversational capacities in various contexts.

Definitions of Bilingualism

• Assessment of Proficiency: Difficulties arise in deciding what constitutes a bilingual individual.

  • Self-Identification vs. External Assessment: Definitions can vary based on personal or societal observations.

  • Grammatical vs. Communicative Competence: Ability varies across different language systems; bilinguals often are less proficient in pronunciation compared to native speakers.

Factors Promoting Bilingualism

• 1. Close Proximity: Living in bilingual or multi-ethnic areas fosters bilingualism due to regular contact with speakers of other languages.

• 2. Displacement: Can be physical (migration) or psychological (social aspiration).

Close Proximity Factors

• Living in a Bilingual Nation: Individuals may adopt a second language due to the societal multilingual context.

• Examples: Individuals in Canada or Brussels where multiple languages are used socially and administratively.

Displacement Factors

• 1. Economic Mobility: Learning a second language often correlates with job opportunities or necessary communication skills in the workplace.

• 2. Cultural Appeal: Interest in other cultures can increase language acquisition, especially in youth drawn to modernity represented by languages like English.

Summation of Important Concepts

• Characterization of a Bilingual: Ability to engage in basic conversations in more than one language.

• Proficiency Overview: Most bilinguals are not equally proficient in both languages; usage patterns affect proficiency.

• Key Terms: Critical age hypothesis, balanced bilinguals, grammatical/communicative competence, factors promoting bilingualism, socio-economic mobility.

Conclusion

Factors promoting bilingualism emerge largely from linguistic, social, and economic dynamics, with prevalent themes around exposure and usage contexts.