NEGOTIATING IDENTITY IN A GLOBALIZED ERA: HOW INDONESIAN AND KAZAKH STUDENTS PERCEIVE ENGLISH
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Objective: This study explores how university students in Indonesia and Kazakhstan perceive English using qualitative method as its methodological framework. It focuses on why they learn it, how it affects their social lives, and its impact on their local culture.
Method: Based on interview data, the research shows that students in both countries share a strong "instrumental motivation." Results: This means they view English as a necessary tool for getting good jobs, becoming freelancers, and accessing information on the internet. However, the study finds a clear conflict between the economic benefits of English and the social pressure it creates. Most students admitted that they learn English best through digital media (like movies and songs) rather than just in the classroom. A key difference was found between the two nations: the Kazakh participant viewed English simply as a bridge to the outside world. In contrast, Indonesian students expressed anxiety about social judgment (being seen as "pretentious" or sok Inggris) and worried that local languages are being forgotten. Novelty: The study concludes that for these students, learning English is not just about mastering a skill; it is a difficult balance between wanting to be global and wanting to protect their local roots.
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