Conventional wisdom holds that foreign languages are best taught by “native speakers.” Intriguing new research suggests that this may not be the case. If the results are confirmed, this new concept could have major ramifications for language teaching and learning throughout the world.
In a study involving oral understanding of Hebrew, researchers from the University of Haifa (Israel) found that: “Arabic and Russian speakers required less phonological information to recognize the Hebrew word when it was pronounced in the accent of their native language than when they heard it in the accent of another language.”
At first glance, I would say that the study sample was relatively small -- just 60 young people. And the results are really not that surprising. I have already noticed in my English classes that my students (who all have the same accent) understand each other better than they understand me.
So on the one hand, we can say this study proves what many language teachers know already: foreign words are more understandable when pronounced with a student’s native accent.
On the other hand, if a true connection to language learning -- and not just understanding-- could be established, the research could change many ideas about listening activities and teacher qualifications.
All over the world, companies, families and students are realizing the importance of language in today’s global environment. Language Translation, Inc. works with many bilingual language professionals, offering translation, interpreting
and localization
services in over 40 different languages. “We speak your language – and theirs.”
Betty Carlson | 
