433
25.13 Competency in language
The importance of a command of language for integration into
a group is emphasized by writings in the sociology of knowledge.
The importance of the command of English is emphasized also in
writings on multiculturalism and ethnic identity.
25.13(i) Hypothesis
It was hypothesized that Aborigines would perceive themselves
as lacking opportunities because of their poor command of English.
25.13(ii)
TABLE 44
Comparison of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal response
to Statements 42 and 40 - Command of English .
Statement
Agree Not Disagree
strongly Agree sure Disagree Stfongly
ft, ft. ft. ft ft
"ft 4> *0 Φ w
Maj ority
support
O,
V
42. If my English were better, I’d
have a better chance of getting
a job
34.1
(disagree)
Aboriginal response (N=93) 5.5
Non-Aboriginal response (N=289) 4.8
28.6 27.5 30.8
22.0 20.6 37.1
38.5
40. My English is not good enough
for mixing with people
comfortably
Aboriginal response (N=93) 6.7
Non-Aboriginal response (N=289) 4.9
10.0 15.6 50.0
9.0 10.8 51.0
(disagree)
17.8 67.8
24.0 75.0
25.13 (iii) Discussion
At the level of mixing with others, 67.8 per cent of the Aboriginal
group rejected the statement that their English was not good enough.
When English was connected with getting a job, the response was spread,
1Where there is support approaching the majority support but at
the other pole, this has also been calculated and shown within the
tabie.
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