Perception of Newcomers Regarding Learning English and Culture in Canada

Abstract

There are some factors, which are motivational, and on the other hand, there are many challenges that may cause hindrance for learning English as a second language. Therefore, the main objective is to assess perception regarding factors for learning English as a second language, especially among new immigrants. This was a cross-sectional study conducted at a Polycultural center, Canada during the period of June-2017 to July-2017. The results of the study reinforced that new immigrants face challenges while learning English. Almost more than half the participants said that they find difficulty in understanding majority words. Regarding learning culture, two-thirds mentioned that the learning about culture gives them different points of view about the world and develops their critical thoughts. However, the socio-demographic characteristics like age, native language, play an important role in learning English.

Motivational Factors for Learning English as a Second Language Acquisition in Canada

“…A study shows that overall there is an essential role of all six motivational factors for learning English as a foreign language. Authors (Khan and Takkac, 2019) did a previous study also depicted that that immigrant had an optimistic approach to learning English as a second language. However, they face some challenges in learning English as well as integrating into Canadian culture.…”

“…I look at their educational status, a few of the sampled populations had completed a master's degree and a handful of participants had Ph.D. Hence, it is important to know the role of educational status for settling new immigrants in Canada and learning a foreign language, which should be helpful (Oxford, 1990;Khan and Takkac, 2019). Indeed, if the time span in Canada is increased, there will be more chances to settle easily as new immigrants and learn English as a foreign language (Lambart, 1973).…”

“…While taking care of the settlement of new immigrants, we should keep in mind that these new arrivals must pass through different stages of adaptation from euphoria, dissentient with frustration, gradual adjustment with a slow recovery, and acceptance (ISAN, 2019). The acquisition of a second language makes the scenario worse, and they become frustrated (Khan and Takkac, 2019). To cope with this situation, the prerequisite is to learn the English language and without motivation, it seems difficult to go for the acquisition of English as a second language.…”