Identity Crisis among Chinese University EFL (English as a Foreign Language) Learners

Since English has emerged as a global language, it is no longer the sole possession of the English native speakers. Many studies have concluded that second language learning affects learners’ identity. As China is the largest gathering place of English learners in the world, the influence of English learning on learners’ identity is inevitable. The current English teaching in Chinese universities overemphasizes the input of English culture and neglects the inheritance of local Chinese culture, resulting in the lack of identity of Chinese university English learners. As language, culture and difference are all intimately linked to identity, this paper will examine the three primary causes of Chinese university students’ identity crises and offer solutions from these angles. The first reason lies in the overemphasis on Standard English and the so-called Standard English accent in Chinese English learning programs. The second reason is the overemphasis on Anglo-American cultural norms and values. Finally, English language learning in Chinese universities overemphasizes the legitimacy of native speakers.