Building linguistic bridges: Pakistan's forward-thinking strategy for foreign language learning

ABSTRACT

This article provides insight into Pakistan's proactive strategy for developing linguistic ties by improving proficiency in Chinese as a foreign language. Interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) is used to closely examine the participants’ lived experiences. A purposive sampling technique is adopted to choose the samples for this research. Semi-structured interviews of sixteen professionals are done to gather the primary information needed to comprehend the participants’ viewpoints on learning Chinese. The study focuses on the objectives and challenges associated with acquiring the Chinese language from the perspective of individuals in Pakistan and has provided valuable insights into individuals’ attitudes and behaviours about the acquisition of the Chinese language, hence contributing to developing a systematic framework for Chinese language learning. The findings aregrouped under three sections according to the conceptual framework (motivations, amenities, and challenges) of Chinese language acquisition and highlight the need for creative approaches, specialised teacher preparation, and suitable materials to promote efficient Chinese language acquisition and get beyond linguistic and cultural barriers. The findings of this study will aid language institutions and policymakers in planning strategies for foreign language learning and acquisition.

KEYWORDS:

• Foreign language learning
• interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA)
• cognitive skills
• cultural exchange

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work is supported by the Yunnan Social and Humanities Science Research Innovative Team (No.2023CX02). Yunnan Young and Middle-aged Academic and Technical Leaders Reserve Talent Project (No.202105AC160059). Major Project on Philosophy and Social Science Planning of Yunnan Province (No.ZDZB202209).