Waters, Alan (2007) Native-speakerism in ELT: Plus ca change? System, 35 (3). pp. 281-292. ISSN 0346-251X
Full text not available from this repository.Abstract
In ELT, the over-representation of the “native-speaker” (NS) point of view at the expense of the “non-native-speaker” (NNS) one – “native-speakerism” – has long been a significant problem. However, this paper argues that the current main applied linguistics attempt to remedy the situation – the use of a “critical theory” (CT) approach – rather than bringing about true progress, simply perpetuates the status quo in a new guise, by substituting one kind of hegemony for another. The way in which this occurs with respect to a central area of the CT critique of native-speakerism – the proscription of generalisations by NSs about the cultural characteristics of NNSs – is therefore explored. It is shown that in the case in question, (i) insufficient empirical evidence is provided for claims made, and (ii), via a review of relevant literature, that an underdeveloped concept of stereotyping is employed. As a preferred means of trying to ameliorate native-speakerism in ELT, therefore, the case is outlined for the continued and increased use of more traditional (but still valuable) epistemological approaches.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Journal or Publication Title: | System |
| Subjects: | P Language and Literature > P Philology. Linguistics |
| Departments: | Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences > Linguistics & English Language |
| ID Code: | 1887 |
| Deposited By: | Dr Alan Waters |
| Deposited On: | 26 Feb 2008 14:05 |
| Refereed?: | Yes |
| Published?: | Published |
| Last Modified: | 26 Jul 2012 15:22 |
| Identification Number: | |
| URI: | http://eprints.lancs.ac.uk/id/eprint/1887 |
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