Language as a tool for adapting to Bangladeshi culture

Abstract

Migration has become a common phenomenon as the world is being globalized day by day. Migration refers to shift from one country to another. This shifting makes the migrants learn the new language and cope with the new environment. Life in a new country is very difficult as the migrants have to face many barriers and problems in the new country. Without knowing the language of the host country, it becomes more difficult for the migrants to adapt to the host country’s culture. People from different countries are also migrated to Bangladesh. This paper looks at how learning the language of Bangladesh influences foreign students’ adaptation to the culture of Bangladesh. 30 foreign students were interviewed to collect data for this research. The researcher used a questionnaire with 14 open ended questions for the foreign students. A mixed method of data analysis comprising both qualitative and quantitative methods has been followed for analysis. The findings of this study show that learning Bangla language is one of the initial ways to adapt to the Bangladeshi culture. This paper will serve as a model for any foreign student in Bangladesh who is trying to adapt to Bangladeshi culture. Moreover, the study can be replicated in foreign student context of other countries.