The University of Gothenburg published the following press
statement on the study conducted by Alastair Henry:
"Fewer and fewer adolescents study foreign languages in
English-speaking countries such as the USA and the UK. They simply
do not want to, since as a world language English can be used just
about everywhere. In Sweden, the government has introduced
incentives to learn foreign languages in addition to English in the
school system.
Reduces motivation
In his study, Alastair Henry, doctoral student at the Department
of Education and Special Education at the University of Gothenburg
and a lecturer at University West , used questionnaires and
interview material to explore the effect of using English as a
resource language when learning French, Spanish and German.
While it is certainly the case that English can be useful when a
student reads, listens to or writes texts in another foreign
language, 'using English as a resource language might in fact be
one reason why students are not motivated to learn foreign
languages and why they feel like they are not getting anywhere with
their language studies,' says Henry.
Cognitive activation
'Students recognise similar words and phrases in English, and
teachers often encourage students to use their English skills when
learning French, Spanish and German. However, using English in this
way activates the student's so-called English-speaking self,' says
Henry.
As a result, the student will inevitably compare his or her
different language self-concepts - a comparison that most likely
will make the student less confident about his or her future skills
in the studied language and therefore less motivated in the
classroom.
The interviews revealed, however, that successful language
learners often use strategies to block the negative influence of
English.
'These students often realise that comparing language
self-concepts causes problems,' he says.
Henry therefore points to the importance of teachers actively
helping students develop such strategies. It is also important, he
says, that teachers focus on strengthening their students' language
self-concepts.
Enhanced language speaking/using
self-concepts
'The language self-concept can be enhanced by using a method
common in sports psychology. Coaches often ask their athletes to
visualise themselves as successful in the future, and this can be
done in the language classroom as well' says Henry.
According to Henry, it is important that teachers of additional
foreign languages are aware of the fact that the use of English as
a resource can be problematic and may have a negative impact on
students' motivation to learn a third language."