Careers in languages and employability in contemporary South Africa: A survey from Pretoria.
Pule, Violet Maphefo Sefolaro
Pule, Violet Maphefo Sefolaro
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Abstract
This study was about awareness of language careers in contemporary South African society, given its multilingual ecology, and post-1994 official language policy, with particular reference to Black South African languages. The study attempts to come to its conclusions, based on a survey of societal language attitudes, current university offerings on such languages, the possible impact of technology on the language professions, and government efforts to promote careers in African languages. The quantitative (questionnaire) and qualitative (interviews) research approaches adopted for data collection in the survey revealed that, while there are many careers in languages, they are not as popular as other careers (e.g., Medicine; Engineering; etc.). The most well-known language careers to the respondents were those of: translator; interpreter; language editor; and proof-reader. The respondents indicated the need for language practitioners in their lives, and the value this language profession has. Technology was not perceived as a threat to language practitioner jobs; it was seen as a tool that facilitates their work. The findings also indicate that the South African government is not seen as doing as it should to promote the language professions, with especial regard to African languages.
Description
Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree Magister Technologiae (Language Practice).
Date
2014-11-01
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Tshwane University of Technology
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Keywords
Multilingualism, Employability, Awareness