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What is the relationship between language variation in education and prejudice or discrimination?

Bernard Sket

The relationship between language variation in education and prejudice or discrimination is a complex subject that requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors that contribute to language bias. Education is undoubtedly a critical factor impacting language variation and its relationship with prejudice and discrimination. Therefore, it is imperative to discuss the issues of language variation, education, and prejudice separately before linking them all together.

Language variation is a natural phenomenon where people use different linguistic patterns, dialects, and accents depending on their region or social status. Educational institutions can shape language variation by emphasizing certain linguistic patterns as the 'correct' and 'acceptable' forms of communication. This leads to a standardized form of language that is deemed more respectable and functional in society. Speakers of non-standardized languages, dialects, or accents may be often discriminated against, and their language may be viewed as inferior or uneducated.

In education, language variation can impact classroom experience and academic achievement. Studies have shown that students who use non-standardized dialects or accents in an academic setting often perform worse compared to others who use standardized language forms. This is due to the attitude of the educational system and the teachers who consciously or unconsciously discriminate against students who use non-standardized languages. Even students who demonstrate talent and intelligence in a non-standardized language form may be denied recognition and opportunities due to ingrained prejudices and discrimination.

Prejudice and discrimination based on language variation stem from many factors, including social, economic, cultural, and linguistic factors. In some cases, prejudice and discrimination are driven by a sense of superiority where the user of a standardized language form may view non-standardized forms as substandard or lower class. These biases can be particularly severe when language variation is associated with minority groups and people from lower-income families.

The issue of language variation in education can also impact social mobility and economic opportunities. If the use of non-standardized language forms is discouraged and not actively corrected, it can lead to certain people, primarily from marginalized communities, being ostracised. This marginalization may lead to a decline in employment opportunities and social mobility, creating systemic discrimination and social stratification.

In conclusion, language variation in education impacts prejudice and discrimination in several ways. The educational system contributes significantly to the standardization of language and its impact on the social and economic status of speakers. A shift in mindset towards an inclusive approach to language variation in education is necessary to create a more equal society. All language forms are valid, and recognition of this is essential to ensure that everyone has equal opportunities regardless of their linguistic background.