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Should language variation be included in language learning programs?

Solon Loweth

Definitely! Including language variation in language learning programs is essential if you want to be able to use the language in real-life situations. It's not enough to just learn the standard version of a language, you also need to be able to understand and communicate with people who speak different dialects, slang, and regional variations.

Language variations give you a better understanding of the culture and history behind the language. It allows you to appreciate unique aspects of the language that you wouldn't have been able to learn otherwise. For example, learning the different variations of English, like British English, Scottish English, and American English, can help you understand the differences in culture, history, and the way people interact with each other.

Additionally, language variations are an essential part of communication and understanding. If you're only taught the standard version of a language, you may struggle to communicate with locals who speak in a different dialect. It's important to be able to understand and adapt to different variations of a language to communicate effectively with people from all walks of life.

Moreover, including language variations in language learning programs makes the learning process more engaging and fun. Language learning can seem quite dry and tedious at times, but when you get to learn different variations of the language, the whole learning process becomes more interesting. You'll be able to see how the language and its variations are used in popular culture, movies, and music, which makes it more relatable and easier to remember.

Adding to that, language variations can also help you stand out in a job application or a scholarship program. With multilingualism becoming a highly desired trait in today's workforce, knowing multiple variations of a language can make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers and provide you with more opportunities.

Finally, including language variations in language learning programs can help learners better communicate with individuals with disabilities. Some people with disabilities may use a different dialect or form of a language, and by learning language variations in addition to the standard language, individuals can better communicate with and understand those with disabilities.

Overall, including language variations in language learning programs is a must. It's essential for effective communication, cultural appreciation, as well as for personal and professional development. By learning variations of a language, learners become more equipped to navigate diverse settings and interact with people from all walks of life.