Mackenzie, Lee (2021) Theorising English as a Linguistic Capability: A Look at the Experiences of Economically Disadvantaged Higher Education Students in Colombia. Journal of Human Development and Capabilities, 23 (3). pp. 477-500. ISSN 1945-2829
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Abstract
The current study used the capability approach (CA) to explore the English learning experiences of 10 economically vulnerable higher education (HE) students in Colombia in order to better conceptualise English from a capability perspective. In doing so, this paper builds on the empirical and theoretical work of capability scholars which has looked at the role of English in educational settings. It highlights the importance of viewing linguistic capabilities as inchoative since viewing them as fully formed can obscure injustices. These injustices can include poor quality English language education (ELE), an unfavourable financial situation, and a lack of opportunities for exposure to and practice of English. This last-mentioned injustice foregrounds another important dimension of linguistic capabilities: their inter-subjective, relational nature. To aid in this conceptualisation, the paper also draws on Phillipson’s [1992. Linguistic Imperialism. Oxford: Oxford University Press] theory of linguistic imperialism to better illustrate how English is implicated in asymmetrical power relations which give rise to oppression and domination. However, this paper also shows how some injustices can be navigated by educationally resilient individuals. The findings of this thesis are therefore of interest not only to language policy experts and other language education stakeholders in developing contexts, but also to capability scholars.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Additional Information and Comments: | This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published in the Journal of Human Development and Capabilities by Taylor & Francis on 14th December 2021, available online: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/19452829.2021.2014426 |
| Keywords: | Capability approach; English; Colombia; language; higher education; linguistic imperialism |
| Faculty / Department: | Faculty of Education and Social Sciences > School of Education |
| Depositing User: | Lee Mackenzie |
| Date Deposited: | 15 Jun 2022 13:25 |
| Last Modified: | 12 Nov 2024 11:41 |
| URI: | https://hira.hope.ac.uk/id/eprint/3551 |
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