Notes on Lecture: Communicating Effectively in English
Introduction
Speaker: Phuong Cao
Focus: Improving English communication for Southeast Asians, especially Malaysians
Key Discovery: Effective communication in English differs from the level of English proficiency and connects more with attitude.
Key Points
Attitude vs. English Level
Low English proficiency does not equal poor communication ability.
Example: Faizal, a factory supervisor with low English proficiency, communicates effectively by listening and expressing himself clearly.
Importance of understanding differences in attitude that affect communication.
Observations from Personal Experience
Comparison with Piano Lessons:
Speaker's daughter despised piano lessons and focused on avoiding mistakes (similar to Malaysians during English conversations).
Both share a fear of judgment and a poor self-image regarding their skills.
A Different Approach to English
Connection seen in a visit to a cybercafe where a poor video game player displayed no embarrassment.
Effective communicators focus on the audience instead of self-judgment.
Example: Interaction in a pharmacy shows two starkly different communication styles based on attitude.
Importance of Effective Communication Today
Current State of English Globally:
5 non-native speakers for every native English speaker.
96% of conversations involve non-native speakers.
English should be viewed as a tool for achieving results rather than an art to master.
Real-Life Example
Barbecue scenario with engineers from various countries demonstrating the flexibility of English use in achieving understanding despite language barriers.
Educational Implications
Traditional language teaching emphasizes correctness over clarity.
Example: Grammatical mistakes overshadow understanding in assessments, reflecting misalignment with real-world needs.
Impact on Adult Life:
Negative school experiences influence adult communication abilities.
Symptoms of Communication Breakdown
Listening: Failure to hear due to self-focus.
Speaking: Loss of vocabulary and inability to express thoughts.
Confidence: Loss of self-confidence interpreted as inability to perform or do the job.
Conclusion — Moving Forward
Key Strategy: Focus on the other person and the desired outcome rather than self-concerns.
Encouragement for a generation of Malaysians to communicate confidently, regardless of English proficiency.
Final Reminder: English is a tool for communication, and it belongs to the users.