Innovation in Language Learning

Cultural assimilation and attitude of non-native middle school students and adults in Dhaka city towards Bangla: A comparative study

Raquib Quasem, Lecturer Office of Student Affairs and Teaching & Learning Centre BRAC University (Bangladesh)

Abstract

Cultural assimilation is generally associated with a migrant community taking residence in another country. These communities are exposed to a host of new cultures, languages, customs, and social norms. In order to carry out basic human functions and interactions with the population of the host country, they must assimilate with the practices of the natives for effective and meaningful interaction.

This is a gradual process, and the chief factor which all non-natives must take into consideration is linguistic assimilation. They must learn how to effectively communicate with the natives to perform well at their work place, school, shopping malls, or even at social gatherings.

This research aims to identify and examine the key factors that play a vital role in the cultural assimilation and attitudes of non-native speakers of Bangla at an International school in Dhaka where English is the medium of instruction, and seek out differences in attitude between the non-native adults residing in Dhaka. The identification of the key factors which facilitate cultural assimilation has been uncovered through triangulating personal interviews, semi-structured questionnaires, and focus group discussions. The results indicate that gradual cultural assimilation is taking place in the non-native speakers of Bangla in both the adult and student population, but with striking differences in their attitudes towards certain well established elements that foster cultural assimilation.

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Innovation in Language Learning

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