Language attitudes in Vietnam: The dominance of English and emerging trends in foreign language preferences

Abstract

This study explores the attitudes of Vietnamese learners towards English as their foreign language, focusing specifically on their motivations, learning methods, and future language preferences. The research aims to enhance the understanding of how the contemporary Vietnamese attitudes influence the choice of English, considering its historical development in Vietnam. The data collected from a survey of more than 700 participants reveal that English remains the dominant foreign language in Vietnam, driven by motivations, including career advancement, job opportunities, and educational requirements. Most respondents prefer self-study and language schools, demonstrating a proactive approach to language acquisition. The study also identifies a notable shift in language preferences, with growing interest in other languages like Japanese, Chinese, and Korean. These languages are gaining popularity due to cultural influences, evolving career prospects, and the increasing impact of Asian countries in the region. This trend suggests a potential diversification in foreign language learning in Vietnam, with English's dominance being challenged by these emerging languages. The findings highlight the need for educational institutions, curriculum developers, and policymakers to adapt language education strategies to reflect current learner attitudes and the changing landscape of foreign language preferences. Moreover, the study emphasizes the importance of aligning language education with learners' needs and motivations to foster more effective learning outcomes. By understanding the current attitudes toward English and other foreign languages, educators can better design curricula and teaching methods that resonate with students' goals and preferences. Future research should build on these findings by incorporating diverse data collection methods, such as interviews and observations, to provide a deeper exploration of the complex factors influencing language attitudes and choices in Vietnam. This study proposes insights to inform language education policies and practice, supporting alignment with the needs of Vietnamese learners in a changing global context.