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LANGUAGE FOR LIFE
Life-long Learning is one of the principles underpinning the system of learner ships. This principle is concerned with the continual improvement of learning and skills acquisition to meet the demands of the economy, social development, as well as the needs of individuals. The European Commission definition of life-long learning is: "All learning activity undertaken throughout life, with the aim of improving knowledge, skills and competences within a personal, civic, social and/or employment-related perspective". Simply put, this means that as an individual builds and improves himself by being a life-long learner, thus he is adding value to the economy, his family life as well as society.
Firstly, it needs to be understood that language is necessary for learning. The word "dyslexia" comes from the Greek meaning "difficulty with words". Dyslexia is also often referred to as a "specific learning difficulty". It can be inferred that if one struggles with language, one would struggle to learn. In the Language Policy and Plan for South Africa, point 9 is Language(s) of Learning and Teaching (LOLT). This point corroborates what this paragraph is about by stating, "Since language, as the instrument of learning and teaching, it is at the heart of all education ." Yes, language is the cornerstone of all learning.
Secondly, language is a vital skill for the life-long learner. The changing life of the 21st century reaches all areas and aspects of our lives, especially the world of work related activities. The jobs of today and tomorrow call for high skills and qualifications, and the capacity to learn throughout our lives. Before, our parents were employed by one company for the whole of their working lives, and often were only required to do one type of job. They were not required to learn many new skills. Today the terms "multi-skills" and "up-skills" are commonplace. Companies are looking for employees who are willing to be stretched, to learn new skills and not to just remain in their comfort zones. This implies that, as I acquire more information (to perform new tasks at work), so too does my level of expertise in the language need to increase.
The 21st century employee is also expected to gain and demonstrate not only competence in his\her chosen discipline, but he\she is required to communicate his\her knowledge, explain solving methods, and ask incisive questions. (Incidentally, employers consistently rank the ability to communicate as the number one characteristic they seek when considering candidates for employment).
In conclusion, if I had the choice to teach someone a "survival skill like bricklaying or panel beating (so that they can earn money), or equip that person by improving his\her literacy skills, I would choose the latter. Why? Because language is the foundation of all learning, and will prove to be far more sustainable than merely fulfilling that person's immediate needs.
Darlene Wagner
Triple e Training Holdings (Pty) Ltd
