Reconceptualizing English for International Business Contexts: A BELF Approach and its Educational Implications

This book critiques current BELF practices and suggests that English courses should focus on developing practical communication skills for linguistically-complex workplaces. It also examines whether the focus on achieving native-like proficiency is adequate preparation for students who aspire to use English in professional contexts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 05 August 2022
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

This comprehensive book delves into a critical analysis of current English as a Business Lingua Franca (BELF) practices, drawing upon extensive research conducted in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The authors meticulously identify English communication behaviors that either hinder or facilitate success in the workplace, and trace these back to curricula and teaching methodologies. They offer insightful recommendations regarding the skills employers seek and expect from their employees, raising important questions about the adequacy of English courses focused solely on general academic English skills and business vocabulary in preparing individuals for linguistically complex workplaces. Furthermore, the book explores whether the relentless pursuit of native-like proficiency with stringent grammatical standards and a heavy emphasis on form adequately equips students who aspire to utilize English in professional contexts as a tool to achieve their career goals.

Introduction:
The globalized nature of business has led to the widespread adoption of English as a common language for communication across industries and borders. As a result, English as a Business Lingua Franca (BELF) has emerged as a crucial tool for professionals seeking to excel in their careers. However, the effectiveness of BELF practices in different contexts remains a subject of debate. This book aims to contribute to this discussion by examining the current BELF practices in Bosnia and Herzegovina and analyzing their impact on workplace success.

Research Methodology:
The research for this book was conducted through a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. Qualitative data was collected through interviews, focus groups, and observations with English language learners, employers, and educators in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Quantitative data was obtained through surveys and questionnaires administered to a sample of English language learners and employers.

Findings:
The research findings revealed several key insights into current BELF practices in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Firstly, the study identified English communication behaviors that hinder or promote success in the workplace. These behaviors include lack of fluency, poor pronunciation, lack of confidence, and inability to adapt to different communication styles. Secondly, the authors traced these communication behaviors back to curricula and teaching practices, suggesting that there is a need for more emphasis on practical communication skills and cultural awareness.

Thirdly, the book examined whether English courses concerned with general academic English skills and business vocabulary are sufficient training for linguistically-complex workplaces. The findings indicated that while these courses provide a solid foundation in English language proficiency, they may not adequately prepare students for the challenges of working in diverse and multicultural environments.

Fourthly, the book explored whether the focus on achieving native-like proficiency with high grammatical standards and a strong emphasis on form is adequately preparing students who aspire to use English in professional contexts as a means to ‘get their job done.’ The findings suggested that while native-like proficiency is important, it is not the only factor that contributes to workplace success. Other skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and cultural sensitivity are equally important.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book presents a comprehensive critique of current BELF practices in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The authors identify English communication behaviors that hinder or promote success in the workplace, trace these back to curricula and teaching practices, and offer recommendations for improving BELF practices. The book also raises important questions about the adequacy of English courses in preparing students for linguistically complex workplaces and emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to language learning that includes practical communication skills, cultural awareness, and a strong emphasis on lifelong learning.

Weight: 482g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800415997