Rethinking Bilingualism: A Holistic Approach beyond the Basics in EFL Colombian Settings

Resumen

In the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) setting in Colombia, bilingualism is often discussed but not always understood completely. This paper presents an alternative perspective on being bilingual in contrast to the traditional view of learning exclusively English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in Colombia to be bilingual. Initially, current definitions of bilingualism in Colombian language programs are provided, highlighting the gaps and key elements that may influence the achievement of the National Program of Bilingualism (NPB) main goal. By exploring critical linguistic concepts such as ‘lengua’ and ‘lenguaje’ and the differences between foreign and second languages, this study introduces some essential concepts to understand comprehensively this construct. The study also aims at providing different types of bilingualism and the one suggested for Colombia while also looking at how culture impacts on the process of bilingualism. Finally, a potential definition for the Colombian setting is presented while arguing that it is through the understanding of all concepts concerning bilingualism that a practical, feasible and goal-oriented program of bilingualism can be designed to meet the needs of learners across Colombian EFL classrooms.