Discussions

Do you experience a "language bubble"?

For example, at the UID, everybody speaks English - When we are there all day, it is sometimes hard to even remember that we are in Sweden.

Where can you speak to strangers?
We had a discussion today about places and conditions where it is socially accepted to talk to strangers, and where it is perceived as strange in Sweden. For example, when sitting on a long-distance-bus together for more than 2 hours, you can start a conversation. Do not introduce yourself by name first, but go a sideway: talk about the weather, or offer some food. If your neighbour strikes up a conversation then, it is ok to talk. In a bar, you can talk to anyone. It is very strange to talk to someone at a hospital. Even if you meet someone you know, NEVER ask why they are there - it is a taboo. In Turkey, that is the opposite - people are supposed to talk and ask: when you share, your burden will be shared.

Do you know about any other places where it is acceptable to speak to strangers?

What makes a really good teacher?
During our research, we talked to different Learners and "Teachers". Some Native speakers (without teaching training) found it difficult to teach Swedish - they just know what is right or wrong, and cannot really explain why. Non-native speakers had to go through all the trouble of understanding - so are they also good teachers? We got a few good lessons from some Learners who came here just a year ago - they know just a little more than we do, but that already really helped us. Does a teacher need to have perfect Swedish, or can she already help with just a few words you did not know before?