'We are all sisters, so we don't have to be polite": Language choice and English language training in the multicultural workplace

Abstract

English as a Second Language (ESL) curriculum for immigrant workers often centers around the need to learn English to carry out work tasks and assume greater responsibility at work. However, not all immigrant workers need to learn English to perform everyday work tasks. Furthermore, the ability to speak English is not necessarily linked to getting ahead at work. This paper looks at the reasons why English may be associated with costs rather than benefits for some immigrant workers and examines the question of what kind of curriculum might be useful to immigrants living and working in languages other than English.