Worlds of English - for iPad/Mac/PC

The Open University

How has the English language spread internationally - and is the worldwide influence of English a cause for celebration or concern? How is it changing in response to social, cultural, and technological developments? ‘Worlds of English’ investigates these notions by looking at the expansion of English in China since the 1970s, how it is now the dominant language used at the European Parliament and how a local vernacular in Singapore, known as 'Singlish' is causing controversy. It also examines the role of, and attitude towards, English since the end of Apartheid. This material forms part of The Open University course U214 Worlds of English.

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The Expansion of English in China

This video looks at the rapid expansion of the use, and teaching of English in China, from the 1970s to present.

Mar 11, 2011

19 min

Transcript -- The Expansion of English in China

This video looks at the rapid expansion of the use, and teaching of English in China, from the 1970s to present.

Mar 11, 2011

English in the European Union

In recent years, English has become increasingly dominant as the language spoken at the European Parliament, in Brussels. This film examines why.

Mar 11, 2011

19 min

Transcript -- English in the European Union

In recent years, English has become increasingly dominant as the language spoken at the European Parliament, in Brussels. This film examines why.

Mar 11, 2011

Singlish Controversies

A look at the government of Singapore's attempts to discourage the use of 'Singlish' - a local vernacular that mixes English with dialects of various races that make up Singapore.

Mar 11, 2011

13 min

Transcript -- Singlish Controversies

A look at the government of Singapore's attempts to discourage the use of 'Singlish' - a local vernacular that mixes English with dialects of various races that make up Singapore.

Mar 11, 2011

Cape Town District Six

Examines the role of English and attitudes to English since the end of Apartheid.

Mar 11, 2011

11 min

Transcript -- Cape Town District Six

Examines the role of English and attitudes to English since the end of Apartheid.

Mar 11, 2011