Abstract
Acculturation and language proficiency have been found to be inter-related both from the perspective of second language acquisition (Schumann, 1978, 1986) and socio-psychological adaptation in cross-cultural contacts (Ward, Bochner, & Furnham, 2001). However, the predictions as to the effect of a particular strategy on success differ, with assimilation believed to create most favourable conditions for SLA and integration for general well-being. The present study explores acculturation patterns in three expert users of English as a second language, recent Polish immigrants to the UK, in relation to their language experience. The qualitative data were collected with the use of a questionnaire and analysed with respect to language experience and socio-affective factors. The analysis aimed at better understanding of the relationship between language learning in a formal context and language use in a natural setting on the one hand and the relationship between language expertise and acculturation strategy choice on the other. The results show that in spite of individual differences, expert language users tend to adopt an assimilation rather than integration acculturation strategy. This may suggest that attitudes are related to expertise in English as a second language in a more conservative way than advocated by cross-cultural approaches.
Highlights
The globalised reality brings a new understanding of cross-cultural contacts and communication
This paper hopes to contribute to the discussion of both expert language learner characteristics and immigrant language development by exploring the views and attitudes of three educated Polish speakers who moved to the UK to continue their studies in 2005 and have subsequently decided to set up their homes in this country
There are two major reasons for undertaking this study: firstly, the study aims to extend the understanding of the nature of a complex relationship between language and culture experience and the acculturation strategy adopted by expert English as a second language (ESL) speakers; secondly, given an increased likelihood of direct contact with native speakers of English in the Polish context, the study hopes to provide independent evidence that can be used in further discussion of teaching and learning priorities in Polish schools
Summary
The globalised reality brings a new understanding of cross-cultural contacts and communication. There are two major reasons for undertaking this study: firstly, the study aims to extend the understanding of the nature of a complex relationship between language and culture experience and the acculturation strategy adopted by expert English as a second language (ESL) speakers; secondly, given an increased likelihood of direct contact with native speakers of English in the Polish context, the study hopes to provide independent evidence that can be used in further discussion of teaching and learning priorities in Polish schools. With success defined in terms of reaching a native-like level of proficiency, it is difficult to operationalise the concept of a good language
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