Date
7-2020
Department
College of Arts and Sciences
Degree
Master of Arts in Professional Writing (MA)
Chair
Sarah Rice
Keywords
English as Lingua Franca, Technical Writing, Translingualism, Standard English, World Englishes, Global Communication
Disciplines
English Language and Literature | Rhetoric and Composition
Recommended Citation
Serrani, Lauren Alyssa, "English as a Lingua Franca: Improving Technical Writing and Communication Methods for International Audiences" (2020). Masters Theses. 653.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/masters/653
Abstract
This thesis centers on the role of English as a lingua franca in global communication, particularly as it pertains to technical written communication. Over the 20th century, English emerged as the primary language used in global communication. As a result, efforts have been made to standardize the language and teach this standardized English in schools and writing programs around the world. Standard American and British English are dominant in academic and professional fields, which inhibits both native and nonnative language learners from reaching their full potential. This project focuses on the most prominent language acquisition methodologies - Standard English, translingualism, English as a lingua franca, and World Englishes - as well as a potential solution to this linguistic paradox. In this thesis, I argue that translingualism is needed in congruence with Standard English, ELF, and World Englishes in order to provide a thorough language education to language learners. English as a lingua franca awareness must be prioritized in the education of professional writers in order to identify best practices and establish consistent terminology, linguistic practices, and writing goals.
