Why Many Turks Speak Perfect English While English Proficiency in Turkey is Low

Contrary to the belief that English proficiency in Turkey is low, many Turks I interact with have excellent English skills. This article will explore why this is the case and discuss the factors that play a role in the English proficiency of Turks.

Overcoming Language Barriers

Turkish, the primary language spoken in Turkey, is distinctly different from English. Yet, many Turks excel in English. This is primarily because Turks are driven by the need to learn English for practical and professional reasons. For instance, many aim to work for international companies or travel abroad for work. Their proficiency, though generally not on par with native speakers, is significant and impressive.

The Importance of Necessity

The necessity of English is a major factor that propels many Turks to learn it effectively. When there is a real need, like job opportunities abroad or to enhance career prospects, the drive to learn can be immense. This is evidenced by the fact that many students acquire English fluency when they study or work abroad. Such experiences create a sense of urgency and provide practical context for language learning.

Educational Challenges and Trends

Another reason many Turks aren't as proficient in English is related to their education system. Traditional teaching methods often focus heavily on grammar and writing, with limited opportunities to practice spoken conversational English. Business idioms and terminologies, which are critical in the IT industry, are often neglected. This gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application can lead to weaker overall English proficiency.

The situation has been further exacerbated by economic factors. In the past four months, the Turkish Lira has depreciated significantly. This depreciation has made online English tutoring more expensive, leading to a decrease in the number of Turkish students seeking such services.

Perceived Low English Proficiency

It is often observed that many Turks, despite their strong English skills, score lower on standardized tests or appear less proficient in casual conversations. This can be attributed to several factors:

Irrelevance of their learning to current needs: Traditional English education focuses more on grammar and writing, which are not always relevant to everyday communication. Lack of immersion: Unlike countries where English is the primary language, speaking English is not a part of everyday life for many Turks, leading to natural communicative fluency.

Statistics vs. Reality: While only 0.29% of the population are doctors, it is common to see a high number of doctors in any hospital because these individuals are more likely to be present, work hard, and be recognized. Similarly, the high number of English speakers encountered abroad may not reflect the overall population's proficiency level.

Conclusion

English proficiency among Turks can be a paradox. While the overall population may not be as fluent as they could be, many individuals possess excellent English skills due to a strong sense of necessity and practical application. This is a testament to their ability to acquire foreign languages when the need arises. Understanding the factors that contribute to this dynamic can help policymakers and educators identify areas where improvements can be made to enhance English proficiency nationally.