WORLD ENGLISHES AND THEIR IMPACT ON ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING

This article explores the concept of World Englishes and its impact on English language learning, particularly in the context of second language acquisition (SLA). As English has diversified across global contexts, regionally distinct varieties have emerged, challenging traditional notions of a singular, standard English. The paper examines how this linguistic plurality influences learners’ goals, attitudes, and identities, as well as the challenges it poses for English language teaching (ELT). It argues for a pedagogical shift that embraces linguistic diversity, promotes intercultural communicative competence, and prioritizes mutual intelligibility over native-like proficiency. By integrating World Englishes into language education, learners are better prepared to engage with English as a dynamic, global means of communication.