Taaldinamika as metode om taalvaardigheid te verbeter

Abstract

The growing need to develop language skills exists in all strata of society. Not only do changing structures and technological advances have to be named, but the language user needs to sell himself. The pragmatic use of language is emphasised and a specific method to attain effective language proficiency is sought. A multiplex society such as that in South Africa demands a language to express evolutionary changes and to encode diverse aspirations. Afrikaans language users lack this language skills and performance. Formal language teaching and communication theory have not achieved the desired results. Speech dynamics as a method combines language theory and the requirements of the private sector. A holistic approach towards the client and excellence on the part of the instructor are essential to meet the needs of business. According to this study the word (intended meaning) determines body language and the elocutionary act and performance can be improved efficiently within a small group. Speech Dynamics assumes that a native speaker possesses innate competence, but differing objectives, time, place and listeners affect language performance. Through the presentation of a message, paralinguistic and kinestic aspects broaden the semantic content of an existing reality resulting in structural changes in language. Speech Dynamics (language in motion) presumes shifting realities which at a specific moment in a given place require certain actions, strategies and utterances to define, manipulate and control a situation with its physical, social and psychological implications. Every reality demands its own verbal definition and meaning. Within this dialectic of a new reality and the innate or acquired skill, conflict arises. This conflict generates new semantic and linguistic data and performance. The student is taught to use a suitable register to convey intention. Through the deconstruction of a speech act, language errors are corrected. The language laboratory and video confrontation ensure corrective reinforcement. Speech dynamics aims to sell Afrikaans as a negotiable product to reach certain goals, to formulate certain strategies, to verbalise group thinking, to interpret the aspirations of a new South African society and to decode the media message.