Negative Impacts of Culture Shock in EFL Education for Foreign Nationals

Running head: CULTURE SHOCK IN EFL EDUCATION
NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF CULTURE SHOCK IN EFL EDUCATION FOR FOREIGN
NATIONALS.
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1
CULTURE SHOCK IN EFL EDUCATION
One of the most important aspects of EFL (English as a Foreign Language) education for
foreign nationals is that it promotes English Language Learning in a more practical context for
them. For foreign nationals who come from a non – English speaking background, learning how
to speak and interact in English with the local people becomes important to experience the
nuances of the host nation in detail (Gebhard, 2012). However, there have been some research
with respect to the foreign nationals who have moved to a predominantly English speaking
nation for a longer period of time and are in need of English language education, but are unable
to do so because of the cultural differences that are acting as a barrier. This essay looks at those
elements of cultural nuances or culture shock, and how it acts as a potential barrier for the
English language learning for people of foreign nationalities.
Culture shock happens when a person belonging to a different cultural background and
national identity, moves to a different country either for the purpose of higher education, or job
or any other engagement that requires them to stay for a significantly long time, and are
challenged with a culture and tradition so different from their own that they face serious issues in
adapting to the host culture (Saylag, 2014). While this might seem like a cultural learning
opportunity, for the foreign nationals, it can be a cause of serious concern as research suggests
that culture shock can lead to the development of several issues pertaining to mental wellbeing
including feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, disengagement with social relationships and
lack of ability to function properly (Saylag, 2014).
Culture shock and its associated implications can be a demotivating factor for EFL
learning for foreign nationals. One of the key factors that promote EFL learning amongst the
foreign nationals is the conversational requirement of English. Foreign nationals are required to
hold conversations in English for carrying out their daily activities like visiting some place,