Curious about Miami’s unique linguistic landscape?Ā A study by FIU’s Phillip Carter reveals a surprising truth: English trumps Spanish, even for immigrants.Ā (But hold on, it’s not that simple…)
Carter used a clever technique called the Implicit Association Test (IAT) to measure the nonconscious biases people have towards English & Spanish. He found that most people had a stronger preference for English, regardless of their country of birth or how long they had lived in Miami.
The study challenges the narrative that Spanish is essential for ‘getting by’ in Miami & the naysayers who claim foreigners ‘donāt want to learn the language‘.
So whatās going on? Carter explains that it has to do with the social & institutional messages people receive about the value & importance of each language. English is seen as more essential & dominant, while Spanish is often framed as both necessary & deeply rooted, though not coequal.
What does this mean for language teachers & learners in Miami?
Carter suggests we should challenge the inherited narratives that may be hurtful to us & our children, & embrace the complexity & diversity of our linguistic situation.
He also offers some bonus tips for parents who want to promote bilingualism in their kids:
– Avoid judging their ‘good’ or ‘bad’ Spanish or English
– Celebrate the uniqueness of their bilingualism
– Don’t use one language as punishment
– Listen to their language journey with open ears.
P.S. Science says we’re wired for multilingualism! So keep learning & exploring both Spanish & English, amigos!
š¤ Is something similar being played out where you live?
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