“English Language Learners”: An Analysis of Perplexing ESL-Related Terminology

• Main Authors: Nina Lee Webster, Chunlei Lu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Language and Literacy Researchers of Canada 2012-11-01
• Series: Language and Literacy: A Canadian Educational e-journal
• Subjects: english language learner; terminology; learner of english as an additional language
• Online Access: https://journals.library.ualberta.ca/langandlit/index.php/langandlit/article/view/10624

In today’s globalized world it is increasingly important to consciously consider the terminology used when referencing others. The purpose of this paper is to explore and discuss the perplexing array of loosely defined ESL-related terminology in Education. A literature search revealed various terms referring to the same group of learners, the most common being English Language Learner. Through a deconstruction of related terms, an alternative term is proposed: Learner of English as an Additional Language (LEAL). The language learning aspect should not be utilized as a defining characteristic. LEAL is a respectful and culturally appropriate term that utilizes person first language.