English as a Second Language (ESL)

English as a Second Language (ESL), also called English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), refers to English used by a person who had acquired at least one other language before learning English. The term is often used in educational settings and in reports that provide demographic information. There is an increasing ESL population in the world as a result of colonialism, immigration, and economic and technological advancements led by English-speaking people. Language and English language policy contribute to the formation of one's individual and group identities, although the relation is complex.

The English language has the third-largest population of native speakers among the many languages of the world. In addition, if both native and nonnative speakers are considered, English is one of the most spoken languages in the world (along with Mandarin Chinese). English is widely spoken because it is the primary language of two major powers in recent world history: the United Kingdom and the United States of America. Both countries receive immigrants who either already speak English or who need to learn ESL. Many former colonies of the United Kingdom elected to use English as a primary or an official language of their nation, despite not being the people's native tongue. In addition, due to the preeminent position of the United States in the 20th century, English is used worldwide as a common language in various fields, such as economy, science, technology, media, and politics. In this capacity, English has emerged as a leading international or global language.

ESL is defined by its use in three different contexts. In the first context, it refers to English learned and used by immigrants and minority groups in a country where the primary or official language is English. ESL users in these countries [Page 249]often speak their mother tongue at home and in their linguistic and cultural communities, but learn and use English to function in the dominant group's society. In countries such as Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States, immigrants from China may speak Chinese with family and friends, but are expected to use English at school and work and to conduct official business.

In the second context, English is a designated official language of a country, even though it is not the first language of most people in the society and few people may speak it well. In these countries, there are often groups of people who speak different and sometimes competing local languages, and English is chosen as a common, neutral language for communication. For example, although many different languages are spoken in Uganda, English is an official language of the nation and one of the most commonly used languages. As English is the language of education and of government, the command of the English language allows a person to obtain a better job, higher socioeconomic status, and prestige. Other such countries in which English serves this second function include India, the Philippines, and Nigeria.

The third context involves a broader interpretation of ESL. In this case, ESL users live in societies where English is not the primary or official language and is not used in daily communication. The users are likely to learn English as a Foreign Language (EFL). English is used as the medium of communication only when it is the common language among two or more communicators. Such ESL is often used for specific communication in commerce, academia, technology, and so on. For instance, a German business person may meet a Japanese business person in Brazil and discuss business deals in English, or a group of researchers from Italy, Korea, and Russia may communicate on the Internet using English.

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