Introduction

The aim of this report is to comment on foreign language learning in Switzerland. Switzerland is a unique case and I will explain why. Then we will focus on who learns foreign languages and where. Finally, I will make a few recommendations on how to improve language learning in my country.

Switzerland : A linguistic oddity

A generally accepted idea is that a common language is one of the main criteria to identify a nation. Consequently, I have often heard the following question : Do you speak Swiss ? Yet, such a language doesn’t exist. Switzerland is a blend of four different cultures each with their own language. This high degree of multiculturalism in such a small territory is a never ending challenge for the government and the education system.

Who studies foreign languages and where ?

Each part of the population studies different languages. In brief, German speakers study French whereas French and Italian speakers study German. However, there is one thing in common : everybody studies English. Most of the linguistic education is provided by public school. People start to study German or french at the age of 11, then English at the age of 13. School is mandatory until the age of 16. Then, people can choose either to go to high school and continue their linguistic education, or they can choose to enter the workforce and often drop language learning. For this last category, their knowledge of a foreign language is often really poor. However, there is a trend to go back to school around 20 and pursue their education, especially to learn English.

Recommendations on how to improve language learning

Consider a Swiss German and a Swiss French speaking English together. This situation is not rare. Because French and German are both difficult languages to learn, people tend to substitute one of the official languages with English. Some would think that it’s a invaluable cultural loss whereas others would think that it’s a great leap forward towards understanding each other. One thing is certain, government should reinforce language learning in public schools. Children should begin to learn earlier. I am one of those who tend to think that everybody should be at least bilingual or even trilingual. I would suggest that the education system provides courses in French, German and Italian from the very beginning.